In celebration of Meridian’s 5th annual Small Business Big Impact awards, Meridian is giving back to small businesses that make a difference within Ontario communities with 15 awards of $10,000 and a $50,000 Ontario Votes award.

Small business owners and Canadians can nominate their favorite small business for a chance to win prizes. And yes, you can nominate your own small business. A small business may be nominated as many times as possible. The Small Business Big Impact awards businesses that drive positive change through elements like:

• Innovation
• Environmental stewardship
• Inclusive employment practices
• Community support and other impactful initiatives

Available Funding and Prizes

With the Meridian Small Business Impact Awards, $200,000 will be provided to Ontario small businesses. These include

• 15 awards of $10,000 to small businesses in five Ontario communities
  • Northern Ontario, Southern Ontario, Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Niagara/Hamilton, and Indigenous Entrepreneurs) – A total of $150,000 is going to Ontario businesses (Only three businesses will be selected from each community. For example, three small businesses from Toronto will receive $10,000 each)
• $50,000 Ontario Votes Award to one Ontario small business
  • Once all the winners are announced, the Meridian team will pick the top business from each community, and Ontario will vote for a top winner in early 2026. The small business will receive another $50,000.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Eligible businesses must

• Be registered and operating solely within Ontario.
• Have under 50 employees.
• Have annual revenue under $10 million
• Have been in business for more than 12 Months

You can view the complete list of eligibility criteria here.

HOW TO APPLY

Visit the site to apply.

DEADLINE

Applications for this program are due by October 31st, 2025

As always, we will keep you posted on relevant grant programs and contests for small businesses and organizations in the Greater Toronto Area.

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