The Whitby Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with regional stakeholders, has officially launched the call for nominations for the Peter Perry & Business Achievement Awards 2026. This prestigious annual gala, scheduled for November 5, 2026, serves as the premier event for recognizing excellence within the local business community. The Peter Perry Award, named after Whitby’s founder, is the town’s highest honor for lifetime achievement in community service and business leadership. Residents and fellow entrepreneurs are encouraged to nominate individuals or organizations that have demonstrated exceptional values and significant contributions to the economic fabric of the region.
The Peter Perry & Business Achievement Awards 2026 categories cover a wide spectrum of success, including Small Business of the Year, Business Person of the Year, and New Business Award. This year, there is an increased focus on recognizing businesses that have shown resilience and innovation in the post-pandemic landscape. By submitting a nomination, community members provide local ventures with the recognition they deserve, often resulting in increased brand visibility and networking opportunities. The nomination window is now open, and the Chamber is urging early submissions to ensure a comprehensive review of all candidates before the final selection committee meets this autumn.
In addition to the awards season launch, the region’s business leaders are preparing for the highly anticipated Regional Chair Luncheon 2026. This collaborative event is co-hosted by the Ajax-Pickering Board of Trade, the Clarington Board of Trade, the Greater Oshawa Chamber of Commerce, and the Whitby Chamber of Commerce. It offers a rare opportunity for the business community to hear directly from Durham Regional Chair John Henry regarding the strategic direction of the municipality. Key topics for the 2026 session are expected to include regional transit expansions, affordable housing developments, and the continued growth of the local tech and manufacturing sectors.
The Regional Chair Luncheon 2026 will be held at the Tosca Banquet Hall on May 6, 2026, with doors opening at 11:00 a.m. This event is a staple for those looking to engage in high-level networking and gain insight into the political and economic factors shaping the Durham Region. Tickets for the luncheon historically sell out quickly due to the participation of all four major boards of trade. Attendees will have the chance to engage in a Q&A session, making it a vital forum for business owners who wish to voice their concerns or seek clarification on regional policies and infrastructure projects.
As the Peter Perry & Business Achievement Awards 2026 nominations continue to roll in, the excitement for the spring and fall business seasons is palpable. These events underscore the strong sense of collaboration between Durham’s various municipalities, proving that the region’s economic strength lies in its unified approach to commerce and community building. Whether you are a small start-up in Clarington or a legacy manufacturer in Oshawa, these platforms provide the stage to celebrate success and plan for the future. For more information on how to nominate a peer or to purchase tickets for the upcoming luncheon, visit the respective Chamber or Board of Trade websites today.
