Humboldt businesses are among those nominated for ABEX awards this fall.
The Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce announced their finalists for their 2012 Achievement in Business Excellence (ABEX) awards on September 5.
In total, there were 46 nominations selected as finalists within 10 ABEX categories.
Among them were Century 21 Diamond Realty of Humboldt in the Marketing category and MNP LLP of Saskatoon, which also has a branch in Humboldt, in the Community Involvement category.
The ABEX award for Marketing goes to the business demonstrating exceptional performance in the execution of a successful marketing strategy. The jury evaluates the success of a marketing program giving consideration to the nature of the product and the relative size of the business.
This is the second year Century 21 Diamond Realty of Humboldt has been shortlisted for the ABEX award in Marketing.
The business, owned by Dan and Cheryl Torwalt, also claimed the Marketing award at the 2012 Humboldt and District Chamber of Commerce Mark of Excellence Awards in March of 2012.
In their nomination, it was stated that "Century 21 Diamond Realty is a full service real estate company, offering real estate services in the residential, commercial, farm/ranch, lease and condominium property areas.
"The company, started in December 2008, represents buyers and sellers from all over the world, in all types of property sales transactions for Saskatchewan properties."
According to the Torwalts, "Our company has a strong connection with other real estate companies across the country, using referrals incoming and outgoing to best service our clients. We follow the code of honesty, integrity and professionalism. "
Also up for the Marketing award are the Flaman Group of Companies from Saskatoon, Refresh Enterprises Inc. of Saskatoon, S&E Trusted Online Directory of Saskatoon and Silver Star Salvage of Moose Jaw.
The ABEX Award for Community Involvement goes to a business demonstrating exceptional performance in its support of the arts and culture, amateur sports, education, healthcare or voluntary groups.
Judging takes into account the relative size of the business. Greater consideration is given for involvement that is not an extension of the firm's main business activities.
MNP of Saskatoon, it was stated in its nomination, "has a deep connection to each of its communities countrywide. As a responsible corporate citizen, MNP recognizes the health of our business depends on the communities in which we live, work and play. We take our role as community leaders seriously and community investment is a pillar in our corporate value structure.
"Our involvement goes deeper than simply cutting cheques - we encourage our professionals to become involved in community programs and organizations to not only add value where needed, but gain a better understanding of the community and connect with groups and people that make our communities a success."
MNP has a staff of 21 employees in Humboldt, and the local branch claimed the HDCC Mark of Excellence award for Community Involvement.
Also up for the Community Involvement ABEX award are the Mainil Group of Companies of Weyburn, Neechie Gear of Saskatoon, Sun Life Financial of Regina and the Mosaic Group of Companies from Regina.
The 46 nominees are based all over Saskatchewan, from Saskatoon and Regina to Perdue, Moose Jaw, and Pilot Butte. Businesses in Rosetown, Atwater, Yorkton, Prince Albert and Weyburn, as well as Humboldt, have been shortlisted.
"The quality and diversity of these finalists really showcases the way in which Saskatchewan's economy is taking a leadership role within Canada, and across the global stage," said Steve McLellan, CEO of the Saskatchewan Chamber of Commerce.
"This year's slate of nominees is an interesting combination of established businesses with proven achievement records and more recent enterprises that truly show the innovative nature of the latest generation of Saskatchewan entrepreneurs."
This year marks the 29th anniversary of the ABEX awards, Saskatchewan's largest celebration of private sector achievement.
The awards gala will be held October 20 at the Delta Hotel in Regina, and will be themed as a tribute to commemorate the 130th anniversary of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
