Your business,
boosted.
Apply for a chance to win $125,000 in funding, technology and exposure and become part of a thriving community of Canadian business owners.
Ready to boost your business?
This year, we’ve collaborated with likeminded partners to further celebrate owners and boost their business.
3 grand prize category award winners receive
$125,000
in funding, technology and exposure.
6 Community Award winners receive
$10,000
in funding, plus additional prizes.
People’s Choice Award
$25,000
in additional funding.
Applications are open, don’t miss out.
June 2, 2026
The application period begins.
September 2, 2026
The application period closes at 11:59pm ET.
October 1, 2026
Winner announcements.
People’s Choice Award voting begins.
October 15, 2026
People’s Choice Award winner announcement.
Winners celebration event.
Get your business recognized.
Share your story
Demonstrate how your business stands out in your industry and how you’re making a meaningful impact on your community.
Your growth and impact
Share an initiative that helped your business grow. We want to hear how it helped your employees, your customers and your community.
Future proofing your business
Highlight how you use digital tools to work better, understand your business or create great experiences for your customers.
Get your community involved
Rally your community of supporters to vote for you during the winner announcement period.
More than a contest.
A community for business owners.
In collaboration with our partners, we’re creating a #StandWithOwners community
where Canadian owners can connect, learn and grow together.
where Canadian owners can connect, learn and grow together.
Wondering if your business is eligible?
We’re looking for a broad selection of businesses across all sizes, stages, industries and communities across Canada.
If you’re a Canadian business owner, we want to hear from you!
I just recently started my business, can I apply?
Yes, you’re eligible to apply. Businesses just starting are eligible to apply, as long as they are currently up and running at the time of application.
I’m a sole proprietor. Am I eligible?
As long as your business is an established business and generating revenue, sole proprietors are considered eligible to apply. Please list your employee size as 1.
Are non-profits eligible to apply?
Yes, not-for-profits, registered charities, and social enterprises are considered eligible to apply. To be eligible, you must operate within Canada and primarily serve Canadian communities through innovative, grassroots programs that address pressing local challenges.
Get started with your application.
Looking for inspiration? Follow TELUS Business on your favourite social media platform for application tips from previous winners, along with other helpful content.
01
Application tips
Share with us your business story, what inspired you to start and let your passion shine through! Check out our application tips for more guidance.
02
Review process
Each application is reviewed by an internal TELUS panel, including executives from across the organization.
03
Winners announcement
Grand Prize Category and Community Award winners will be announced and celebrated here and on social media on October 1, 2026.
04
Community involvement
Get your community involved! Once winners are announced, the public can vote for their favorite #StandWithOwners 2026 winner to receive an additional $25,000 in funding.
Thank you to our partners.
This year, we've collaborated with like-minded partners, who share a passion for championing
Canadian small businesses, to deliver even greater value and exposure.
Canadian small businesses, to deliver even greater value and exposure.
Our presenting partners
Future Forward Award
presented by
Business Growth Award
presented by
AI Innovation Award
presented by
Our prize partners
