Nominations are now open for the Port Coquitlam Best Biz Awards, back for the fifth year to shine the spotlight on local businesses.

Anyone can nominate their own or another Port Coquitlam business until Oct. 13 using the online form at www.portcoquitlam.ca/bizawards. Participants are encouraged to make their nomination stand out by including a short video.

“We have some outstanding businesses in Port Coquitlam and we want to celebrate them through these awards,” Mayor Greg Moore said. “This is a chance for businesses to get the word out about their services for the community to show their appreciation for a local business.”

Port Coquitlam launched the awards in 2013 to recognize the contributions businesses make to the community, celebrate their accomplishments, and encourage Port Coquitlam residents to shop locally for goods and services.

This year, businesses may be nominated in one of four categories:

• Small Business of the Year – up to 10 employees
• Big Business of the Year – 11 or more employees
• Home-based Business Award – has demonstrated significant growth, sustainability and excellent customer service
• Employer of the Year – goes above and beyond for employees (new category this year)

Businesses of any size may be nominated, as long as they operate in Port Coquitlam and have a valid city business licence. Businesses can nominate themselves.

All nominees will also be entered for a People’s Choice Award, and their business names, websites and videos will be promoted on the city website and in other print and online communications. From Oct. 16 to 22, the public will be invited to vote for their favourite business.

Selected by a panel of city and business representatives, the awards will be presented at the PoCo Best Biz Awards Celebration on Nov. 9 from 6-8 p.m. at the PoCo Inn & Suites. The free event is open to all Port Coquitlam businesses and employees (maximum of two seats per business) and includes complimentary food, drinks and door prizes.

New this year, the event will feature tastings from new and upcoming breweries and cideries in Port Coquitlam, including Taylight Brewing Inc., Northpaw Brew Co., WestCoast Cider Co., PoCo Brothers Brewery and Foamers’ Folly Brewing Co. Early registration is recommended at www.portcoquitlam.ca/bizawards as space is limited.

“Our Best Biz Awards not only show our pride in the success of our local businesses but also recognize the important contributions a strong economy makes to our sense of community in Port Coquitlam,” said Cllr. Mike Forrest, chair of the city’s Smart Growth Committee. “I encourage businesses to come out to our celebration event for a fun evening and to network with other local businesses and Council.”

The awards are sponsored by Tri-City News, TELUS, Port Coquitlam Business Improvement Association and the Tri-Cities Chamber of Commerce with support from Small Business BC, Galactic Entertainment, Vancity and Snapd Tri-Cities.

For more information about the awards, an online nomination form and tips, visit www.portcoquitlam.ca/bizawards .Questions may also be directed to planning@portcoquitlam.ca or 604.927.5249.

– 30 –

MEDIA CONTACT:
Pardeep Purewal
Manager of Communications & Administrative Services
City of Port Coquitlam
T: 604.927.5335
E: purewalp@portcoquitlam.ca
www.portcoquitlam.ca