2025 - Frontenac County Business Award Recipients

Congratulations to the 2025 Frontenac County Business Award Recipients and Nominees!

  • A total of thirty-eight nominations were received across five categories, with some businesses being nominated multiple times. An anonymous scoring committee evaluated the nominations based on specific criteria to determine the winners.
  • The physical Award was created by Paul Outwater of Select Manufacturing and Supply in South Frontenac. Select Manufacturing creates custom and standard ductwork solutions for the HVAC industry. Their company mission is to lead the HVAC industry with unwavering client care and quality products by our commitment to integrity, technological advancements, and constant market adaptation.

These are the businesses that were nominated across all five award categories.

  • Hartington Equipment, Kick and Push Brewery, Lonnie Watkins Tree Service, The Tweet Boutique and Gallery, Lavallee's Cookery, Food Less Travelled, Frontenac News, House of Three, Mike’s Pizza and More, Rampant Kitchen, R&M General Contracting & Landscaping, The Dutch Spice Mill, I Can When You Can’t, Myers Cave Resort, The Rise Farm, Back to Health Massage & Wellness, Ogorek Homestead.

Business of the Year - Congratulations, the Business of the Year Award recipient is K&P Brewery, Daniel and Laina

So much more than a local business, it is the heart of our community. They consistently create connections, support other businesses, and provide welcoming spaces that bring people together. This, in and of itself, is representative of Frontenac County.

Through events like Open Mic Night, Games Night, Trivia Night, Pint & Paint with local artists, and “Yoga and a Pint,” they have become a gathering place for people & pets of all ages.

They actively participate in community events such as the North of 7 Run and the Harrowsmith Farmers Market, and they generously open their doors for community outreach, recreation committee meetings, and other local initiatives.

They keep pet treats behind the counter and offer bowls of fresh water for visiting pets.

Their support for local business is remarkable. They collaborate with Cardinal Café for their “Sweet Java Brown” brew, source meat from Seed to Sausage, and sell maple syrup from OSO Sweet Maple Sugar Bush. They even dedicate wall space inside the brewery for local businesses to advertise — ensuring the entire community benefits from their success.

They embody compassion and inclusivity. They honour regular patrons who have passed away, making everyone feel like part of a family. The welcoming atmosphere fosters friendships and connections — many customers, (ourselves included), look forward to Thursday evenings as a highlight of the week.

The owner truly exemplifies the role of a publican, keeping alive the true spirit of the English “public house” — a place where people gather not just for a drink, but for fellowship, laughter, and a sense of belonging, through their community spirit, local collaboration, and commitment to making our town stronger.

New Business - Congratulations, the New Business of the Year Award recipient is Rampant Kitchen, Elisa

This business has quickly become one of Frontenac County’s success stories, in just over a year, A thriving business, a gathering place, and a shining example of what happens when passion meets purpose.

Working closely with local farmers and food producers to create dishes that incorporate seasonal ingredients truly highlighting the culinary fare of Frontenac County. As a new business jumping into connecting with the community, and local activities, investing in a physical location in South Frontenac where classes are offered engaging the community to learn both valuable kitchen skills and more nuanced recipes.

From day one, this business has grown to be more than just a business –it has become a place that helps celebrate local flavours and share amazing tastes from around the world. In a short time, earning an outstanding reputation for quality, creativity, and customer service.

Demonstrating a deep commitment to working with local individuals and businesses, sourcing local and Canadian ingredients, as she develops the best services in this industry. Leading with fresh ideas, an inclusive spirit, and a drive that reflects the very best of what South Frontenac has to offer - an innovative, locally rooted, and tasty(!) approach to doing business.

Proudly Feast On certified, meaning at least 25% of her ingredients are sourced from Ontario, though in her case, it’s often closer to 75% or more depending on the season. When local ingredients aren’t available, she continues to source entirely within Canada, ensuring every dish reflects her deep commitment to local food and sustainability.

A dedicated mom, balancing family life and a growing business, showing others that it’s possible to build your dream without losing sight of what matters most.

Beyond her skill in the kitchen, she has created a business that embodies the approach to entrepreneurship: community-driven, innovative, and grounded in authenticity. She has redefined what small business success can look like in a rural community. She’s built more than a kitchen, she’s built a brand rooted in connection, creativity, and heart through her vision, leadership, and unwavering dedication.

Partnership and Collaboration - Congratulations the Partnership and Collaboration Award recipient is – the Rise Farm – Sarah and Rob

They work hard to provide consumers with healthy food alternatives while supporting and promoting eating local and showcasing small scale farming. They talk the talk AND walk the walk! It's safe to say that they have their hands and their hearts fully engaged in their community!

They are an inspiring example of how small-scale agriculture can thrive through creativity, connection, and collaboration. They embody the spirit of Frontenac’s entrepreneurial community—proving that working together is the key to building a more sustainable and connected local food system. Their business model is rooted in partnerships. They actively collaborate with other local farmers, small producers, and community organizations to strengthen the visibility and viability of small-scale agriculture.

Through their participation in regional small business networks, they’ve become strong advocates for local food and sustainability, continually raising awareness about the importance of supporting farmers within our community. One of the most powerful examples of their collaboration is their farm-to-table events and local farmers’ market leadership.

They encouraged and promoted community groups to be involved with the farmers market such as North Frontenac Little Theater Group, the local food bank and the Girl Guides They have been part of Open Farms as well as being involved with the Frontenac Small Business Group. Talking with them you are immediately aware of their commitment to work together.

Their social media presence is another testament to their collaborative spirit, where they share about agriculture, their farm and the various local businesses they support. They use their platform to spotlight other small farmers, educate the public about sustainable practices, and give people an authentic glimpse into the realities of small-scale farming. In doing so, they not only promote their own work but uplift the broader community of producers who share their values. Through these efforts, they have built a model that strengthens the local economy, supports small business innovation, and celebrates the best of what Frontenac has to offer. Their success is proof that when local entrepreneurs work together, they can create something far greater than the sum of their parts. For their unwavering commitment to collaboration, community, and connection, they are a shining example of Partnership and Collaboration is.

Innovation in Sustainability - Congratulations the Innovation in Sustainability Award recipient is Parallel Studios, Tristan

A one-of-a-kind off-grid design and fabrication studio in South Frontenac, founded by artist-maker in late 2024. The studio brings together woodworking, stained glass, and architectural fabrication under one roof, creating a bridge between traditional craft and modern sustainable design. In under two years, has made a notable impact on the local community through its combination of artistry, innovation, and leadership.

The studio operates off grid on solar power, built with locally sourced materials, and integrates sustainable practices into every project. By blending fine craftsmanship with environmental responsibility, reflecting a truly Frontenac approach to business by being creative, self-reliant, and community driven.

The studio has contributed to high-profile regional and national projects, including stained glass conservation for Canada’s Parliament Centre Block. In 2025, they were recognized by the Frontenac Heritage Foundation for its contribution to the award-winning Faculty 47 project in downtown Kingston.

Demonstrating innovation and trail-blazing through its off-grid model, interdisciplinary design process, and mentorship of emerging craftspeople. The team collaborates with local artists, builders, and designers, championing enduring, locally made alternatives to mass production.

Through creativity, sustainability, and a strong sense of community, they have quickly established itself as a leader in Frontenac’s growing creative economy proving that new, independent rural enterprises can achieve success while staying rooted in local values.

Women-Led Business - Congratulations the Women-Led Business Award Recipient is Back to Health Massage & Wellness, Allison

A shining example of collaboration and community spirit in Frontenac. They’ve built meaningful connections with local businesses and organizations to support wellness, growth, and partnership.

For three consecutive years, they’ve participated in the local Wellness Fair, joining over 25 small businesses to promote health and connection. They actively collaborate with their neighbouring Pharmasave to improve access to care and offer clients holistic health options.

The clinic provides space for other local practitioners to grow and thrive, extending special wellness rates to fellow business owners and their staff, and continually giving back through donations to local events, schools, and community members in need.

Their success truly reflects the spirit of this award — working together to strengthen community wellbeing and local business connections across Frontenac.