Innovation Awards
We are pleased to announce the highly esteemed 2026 Innovation Awards happening on
March 2nd, 2027 at the OSW Awards Gala at our annual conference.
This is a platform dedicated to recognizing and celebrating outstanding individuals and businesses that have set the standard for excellence in Ontario’s Southwest Tourism industry. The prestigious Innovation Awards Gala serves as a beacon of recognition for those who have demonstrated exceptional leadership and innovation.
These awards are open to tourism operators and partners working in Ontario’s Southwest.
Areas include: Windsor, Essex, Pelee-Island, Sarnia-Lambton, Chatham-Kent, Middlesex County, St.Thomas, Elgin County, London, Oxford County, Norfolk County and Haldimand County can apply for the Innovation Awards.
*Anyone applying for an award outside of these designated regions will not be considered.
We encourage both self-nomination & nomination of another organization/individual. All OSW Innovation Award nomination applications are free of charge to submit.
For questions, please contact our Engagement & Operations Manager, Alayna Simpson
Accepting nominations until November 25th 2026 at 4pm.
Finalists will be notified by January 8th 2027.
2026 OSW INNOVATION AWARD CATEGORIES
The Innovation of the Year Award recognizes a business, program, event, or experience that has introduced fresh ideas, creative solutions, or new approaches that positively impact tourism in Ontario's Southwest.
This award celebrates those who think outside the box, challenge traditional approaches, and find innovative ways to enhance the visitor experience, strengthen tourism offerings, or elevate marketing and promotional efforts.
Whether it's a brand-new initiative or a creative improvement to something that already exists, this award recognizes innovation that makes a meaningful difference in our region's tourism industry.
*Please note, you may self-nominate, or nominate someone you think is deserving. Click on the corresponding application form.
The Luminary of the Year Award recognizes an exceptional individual or team whose passion, dedication, and contributions have made a meaningful impact on the tourism industry in Ontario's Southwest.
This award celebrates those who go above and beyond to make a difference, whether through leadership, innovation, collaboration, mentorship, or an unwavering commitment to strengthening our region's tourism industry.
Greatness isn't defined by a job title or years of experience. Nominees may be at any stage of their career and at any level within an organization. What matters most is the positive impact they've made, the passion they bring to their work, and the way they inspire those around them.
*Please note, you may self-nominate, or nominate someone you think is deserving. Click on the corresponding application form.
The Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year Award recognizes a tourism organization, business, project or experience that is leading with an innovative strategy to improve the tourism experience through a sustainable tourism lens, aligning with the United Nations World Tourism Organizations (UNWTO) Sustainable Development Goals (SDG's).
This award recognizes those who embrace and exemplify the importance of sustainable tourism initiatives. The Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year Award shines a light on those proving that tourism can be both innovative and responsible - setting an example for others to follow and inspiring a collective commitment to a more sustainable future for Ontario’s Southwest.
For SDGs, please refer HERE.
*Please note, you may self-nominate, or nominate someone you think is deserving. Click on the corresponding application form.
PREVIOUS WINNERS
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Sustainability of the Year: Heemans’s
Innovator of the Year: Rock the Runway London
Luminary of the Year: Bryan Lavery -
Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year: Long Point Eco Adventures
Innovator of the Year: Scarehouse Windsor
Luminary of the Year:
Amanda & Nick Vranckx from Front Road Cellars
Dan & Laurie Megna from Twisted Lemon -
Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year: Coopers Hawk Vineyards
Innovator of the Year: Twisted Lemon
Luminary of the Year: Shannon Prince -
Innovative Experience of the Year: Yaya’s Kitchen
Innovator of the Year: Beachville and District Museum
Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year: Jireh Hills Family Homestead -
Innovative Experience: TJ Stables
Innovator of the Year:
Udderly Ridiculous
Tourism London
Sustainability Trailblazer of the Year: Ottercreek Woodworks
