Each year the Atlantic Business Award of Distinction is awarded to an exceptional small business from rural Atlantic Canada.

Nominees from Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador compete for top honours.

The candidates for this year’s award are Shelburne County Cold Storage, Shediac Wonderland, Wilmac Construction and Red Ochre Café.

Shelburne County Cold Storage of Shelburne County, Nova Scotia is the result of two entrepreneurs, Brian O’Connor, and Calvin Williams, who saw the need for cold storage to house bait for the local fishermen. The business expanded rapidly, and now they are proud to serve the lobster industry, other key industries in the region and two of the largest seafood companies in Canada. Calvin and Brian pride themselves on providing a vital service with unparalleled professionalism. The future possibilities for SCCS look bright.

Shediac Wonderland is a group of small businesses inspired by Lewis Carroll’s Alice in Wonderland. Located in Shediac, New Brunswick, the businesses cater to those seeking more than just a meal, just a product, or just a service; they offer enchanting adventures that linger in the hearts and minds of their guests. The businesses—Le Griffon Bed & Breakfast, Adorable Chocolat, Bistro Le Moque-Tortue, Neptune Drive-In, and the Morse et Marteaux smokehouse —provide unique, authentic experiences deeply rooted in the rich culture and diversity of the Acadian Terroir. Owner Sébastien Després notes “We will work to solidify our reputation as a premier destination for unforgettable, whimsical experiences, while continuing to contribute positively to our beloved community.”

Wilmac Construction is located in Kensington, Prince Edward Island. What makes the company truly unique is its innovative approach to workforce diversity and integration. Despite launching in a challenging labor market, the strategic emphasis on client satisfaction and fostering a supportive workplace culture has garnered widespread attention, attracting talented individuals from diverse backgrounds across the globe.

Wilmac Construction takes pride in providing newcomers with not just employment opportunities, but a platform to flourish and make a meaningful impact in their community. From engineers hailing from Ireland to skilled professionals from Nepal and India, the team reflects a rich tapestry of global talent. They're not just offering jobs; they're empowering individuals to utilize their expertise and contribute to their collective success.

Whether this year’s nominees have shown resilience due to economic trials, top notch customer service, quality product and delivery, unwavering support of the local community or the vision and tenacity to grow its location, market or staff, the candidates have accomplished something special to be chosen to represent their province.

All nominees are judged on the same criteria: A CBDC client that has been in business for at least 3 years, a full description of the business and why it is worthy of the Atlantic Business Award of Distinction, a growth strategy, financials and how the business has benefited the local community.

This criterion follows the CBDC mandate. CBDCs complement the services and assistance provided by mainstream financial institutions and other partnering agencies. As organizations committed to fostering economic growth, we look to present this award to a business that best represents similar values, enriching their communities by providing employment and services to their region, contributing to the local economy.

This year, Red Ochre Café from Ochre Pit Cove in Newfoundland and Labrador won the hearts of the judges with its story of survival and success. The restaurant survived the pandemic, it prides itself on customer service, quality food, delivery, and their love of community. It checked all the boxes.

Just six months after opening the restaurant, Covid stopped the world in its tracks. Ray Dwyer’s young business, like many others at the time, was struggling. Ray had financial assistance from CBDC Trinity Conception to open The Red Ochre Café, and so he reached out for a special Covid relief loan. The café now had a fighting chance at staying open and Ray was able to keep his staff employed.

Tracy, Rays partner, offered to help with the social media marketing, she knew she was in the middle of something special and they stopped apologizing for their rural location and ensured they were “worth the drive.” With a special Valentine’s promotion, offering to deliver free of charge to loved ones in lock down, their Treat Boxes with their famous cheesecake, chocolates and other sweet selections were delivered to doors all over the Avalon Peninsula. They aimed to sell 50, they sold 150 and haven't looked back.

Ray is quick to point out that it's not about the money, it's about the people and if you make it about the people, the money will come. That philosophy has built a loyal clientele, and Ray listens to his customers and their suggestions. He is proud to be an inclusive restaurant, with dairy free, gluten free, and other options, including Sushi Saturdays.

They are proudly a safe space for the 2SLGBTQI community, with gender neutral washrooms and all are welcome.

To quote Ray, “they love people” and with the growth and demand for their Traditional NL cold plates, and cheesecake across the region it's obvious people love the food and service at the Red Ochre Café.

The Atlantic Association of CBDCs congratulates this year’s Atlantic Business Award of Distinction winner, Red Ochre Café.

September 2024