It’s official: The 2026 1Awards finalists have been revealed!
Win cash and professional services to help your small business grow
The FirstOntario 1Awards were created 14 years ago to put the spotlight on small businesses by recognizing past success, care for community and future ambition.
This year, $200,000 in prizes ($32,500 in cash and $167,500 in professional services) is up for grabs
Are you a dedicated entrepreneur with a home base in Hamilton, Halton, Brant, Niagara or surrounding areas? Have you been open for business for at least two years with less than 50 employees? Are you ready to elevate your operation and put your future plans into action?
The FirstOntario 1Awards is backed by our team of community partners who act as judges in the pitch competition and who provide the prizes and expertise to the winners.
A shortlist of (10) applicants will move to the next round where they will pitch their ideas about future success in a fun and informal setting.
Winners share cash prize and in-kind services – determined by the judges – that specialize in marketing, advertising, accounting, digital services, legal practices and finance.
Together with our partners, we’ve invested close to $2.5 million into our small business communities, a sincere celebration of the small but mighty teams who continue to offer unique products and services that our neighbours have come to count on.
Celebrating small business support for local entrepreneurs
Through more than a decade of the 1Awards program, we’ve had the privilege to get to know many small business owners who truly inspire us. Their dedication to doing what they love, and their commitment to our communities makes them definitely stand out in a crowd.
Take a look at the past winners of the FirstOntario 1Awards.