Portage Local Immigration Partnership is partnering with the Portage la Prairie & District Chamber of Commerce for this year's 2022 Business Awards for a new award. It's the Outstanding Contribution to the Community by a Newcomer Award. 

Coordinator Mitch Tilk says they're looking for nominees right now.

"They don't necessarily have to be a business," notes Tilk. "It could also include volunteerism. We're just looking to promote some of the contributions that newcomers are making to our community and make sure that they're getting the recognition that they deserve."

The new award will be presented at the Business Awards Gala on November 24th. Tickets are on sale and are $75 a person.

"It'll be handed out alongside the other awards," continues Tilk. "We've kind of sponsored this one, and it's brand new this year, so we're working out a bit of the ironing out of the wrinkles as to how that's all going to work. We do have a nomination form and they can get it on our website, portagecrc.com, and submit it there. There are instructions on where to submit it on the form."

Tilk adds if you know someone who is a newcomer/immigrant to the community who has been making contributions, submit your nomination forms.

He notes they'd like to get them all in by November 11.