The 2017 Airdrie Business Awards, honouring the top businesses in Airdrie in six categories, were handed out last night at the awards gala at Bert Church Theatre.

Lynn Kehoe who serves on the organizing committee for the awards says it was a fantastic evening.  "There was so much good energy, there was live music in the lobby.  Michelle Carre was our MC and did just a fantastic job.  People really enjoyed the evening."

147 nominations were received in the six categories and this year all nominess were adjudicated by an independent third party to make the awards more transparent.

For 2017 the committee added the Legacy Business Award to honour businesses that have made Airdrie home for over 15 years.  That award went to McKee Homes.  Kehoe believes there couldn't have been a better winner.

"They've been 30 years in Airdrie and what more of a legacy is that.  Her father started the business, she and her sister have continued with the business.  That is a legacy."

McKee Homes President, Elaine McKee Doel had to carry two awards home last night as she was named the Airdrie Business Leader award winner at last night's gala.  Kehoe explained the criteria for the award.

"It's an individual whose ethics and philosophy extends beyond their business.  Somebody who has a positive impact on the community.  Someone that just stands out in the community and I think Elaine McKee Doel was very deserving of that award."

The Employer Excellence Award was won by Davis Chevrolet GMC.  Kehoe says the business is an example to others in Airdrie.  "They have a great business group there.  They're employees are all engaged and excited to be a part of everything they host there.  I think they're a great example of how we should all treat our employees."

The Winning Edge Award went to Switchback Creative.  The award was recognition for the company's outstanding achievement in innovative practices, customer service, growth and active participation in the community.

Happy Paws Veterinary Clinic took home the Environmental Stewardship Award for their environmental sustainability through leadership and integrating environmentally responsible practices in their business.

The Emerging Business Award went to Airdrie Puppy Pals.  The award goes to a business less than three years old that demonstrates growth and support for the Airdrie business community.

160 people were on hand for the gala which is held during Small Business Week in Canada.