The Annual Quinte Business Achievement Awards were held at the National Air Force Museum in Quinte West on Friday night.
Seventeen awards were handed out to a pool of 136 nominees. The awards recognize businesses, entrepreneurs, and organizations for their success and their contributions to the surrounding community.
Three judges evaluated nominees for each of the categories. Nominees filled out a seven question nomination package, sharing the story of their business and why they should be considered for the award.

Attendees gather in the National Air Force Museum, prior to the award ceremony. Photo: Zach McGibbon
The award winning businesses and individuals are as follows:
Retail Business of the Year: Kraft Village
Hospitality / Tourism Business of the Year: Meyer’s Creek Brewing Company
Regulated Professions Business of the Year: Hitchon’s Hearing Centre
Specialized Services Business of the Year: Zone Athletics
Trades/Construction Services Business of the Year: Luke Joseph Carpentry
Manufacturing Business of the Year: JBS Foods Ontario
Young Entrepreneur of the Year: Brandon O’Quinn
New Business of the Year: Base31
New Business of the Year: Mike and Lori’s Garden
Not-for-Profit of the Year: The Alzheimer Society
Tech Sector Business of the Year: Rillea Technologies Inc.
Business Person of the Year: Tim McKinney
Agribusiness Business of the Year: Cheer Farms
Health and Wellness Business of the Year: Fearless Wellness Centre
Sustainability of the Year: Afiya Beauty
TrailBlazer of the Year: GlobalMed Inc. D.B.A. APTYX
Business Excellence: McDougall Insurance

Business awards sit on display, prior to being presented to the winners. Photo: Zach McGibbon
This year’s award ceremony was also dedicated to the Royal Canadian Air Force, in honour of their deep ties to the community, and their 100 year anniversary.
“The Royal Canadian Air Force has played an integral role in shaping the culture and economy of our region,” said Suzanne Andrews, CEO of the Quinte West Chamber of Commerce. “As we celebrate the centennial of the RCAF, it’s fitting that we dedicate this year’s awards to their legacy and the longstanding partnership between the military and business communities.”

Live music is played for guests at the air force museum. Photo: Zach McGibbon
This year’s ceremony marks the 28th consecutive year of the Quinte Business Achievement Awards.