Nominations are OPEN!

The NADF Awards are an annual awards program that recognizes individuals and businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation, sustainability, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction in six (6) award categories.

Award recipients will be recognized for overall business management, performance and growth, products and services offered, community involvement, and highlighting excellence in leadership.

Nominations are an opportunity for the family, friends, employees, co-workers, and the public to nominate an individual or business that they think is deserving of receiving recognition for their hard work and dedication. This is your chance to show your appreciation by nominating them for the NADF Awards.

Nominations are open to businesses and individuals residing and operating in Northern Ontario, which we define as the boundaries of the Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Treaty #3, and Robinson-Superior 1850 territories.

Self Nominations Accepted

The NADF Awards is the perfect stage for you to stand out and shine with your accomplishments in the business world. It is a place where all your hard work, passion, dedication, and determination are recognized and celebrated.

Questions? Please email us at events@nadf.org if you need clarification on eligibility or the nomination process.

Nomination Process

Review the eligibility and criteria for each award category to ensure the nominee meets the award criteria.
Select the best award category for the nominee.
When you are ready to submit your nomination, complete the online nomination form before the deadline of August 31, 2025.

Nomination Criteria

At minimum, the nominee must satisfy the following criteria. See specific award category for any additional criteria.

Nominee must be:

in Northern Ontario, which we define as the territories of Nishnawbe Aski Nation, Treaty #3, and Robinson-Superior 1850.
a wholly-owned or majority-owned Indigenous (Status, Inuit, or Métis) business, OR
an Indigenous person (Status, Inuit, or Métis), 18 years and older.
able to demonstrate the business’ financial performance.
able to demonstrate high ethical and professional standards.
able to demonstrate community involvement.
Unless otherwise stated, the business must be in operation for a minimum of two (2) years.
Unless otherwise stated, the business must be a for-profit business.

Nominated by: (must be provided for a valid nomination)
First Name

Last Name

Phone

City

Province

Postal Code

I would like to nominate:
Name of Nominee

Name of Business/Organization

Please indicate the percentage of Indigenous Ownership of the nominated business:

Categories
Young EntrepreneurPartnershipExcellence in LeadershipStartup BusinessBusiness ExcellenceSmall Business

Address

City

Province

Postal Code

Phone

I am nominating this business/organization/individual
because(250 characters max)

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Award Categories

Young Entrepreneur of the Year

This award recognizes an Indigenous youth (Status, Inuit, or Métis) ages 18-39, who has paved a space for themselves through their hard work and dedication to their business. This entrepreneur shows us why you should never give up on your goals and is an inspiration for others.

The nominee must be 39 years and younger to be nominated in this award category.

Partnership of the Year

This award recognizes two or more individuals or entities who have formed a partnership built on mutual respect and common goals, and who have demonstrated innovation, leadership, thoughtful planning, and growth potential. These partners best exemplify the true meaning of partnership.

Partnerships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous partners are eligible provided the Indigenous partner is the majority partner (minimum 51%).

Excellence in Leadership

This award will recognize an individual who has demonstrated excellence in leadership involving people, events, programs, projects, and/or teams. Passionate and creative, they take the initiative and think outside the box when running their business or managing their team. Through their strong leadership skills, and innovative management strategies, this leader will be an inspiration for all leaders to follow.

Leaders of non-profits are eligible to be nominated in this award category.

Startup Business of the Year

This award recognizes a startup business that has shown significant promise through their growth since starting their business.

Businesses operating for less than 2 years, but for more than 10 months, are eligible to be nominated in this award category.

Business Excellence Award

This award will recognize overall achievements and excellence in company growth including sales, profitability, employment creation, and innovation.

Small Business of the Year

This award recognizes a small business that has demonstrated innovation, leadership, thoughtful planning, and growth potential.