We are currently accepting nominations for the 2024 Co-operative Merit Awards! This year, we have two award categories: The Co-operative Achievement Award and the Co-operative Enterprise Award. Both are intended to recognize co-operative and credit union members who have made outstanding contributions to co-operative development in Saskatchewan.
Award recipients will be recognized during an awards ceremony at the Remai Modern Art Gallery in Saskatoon on October 4th, 2024. More details and registration will be available soon.
Nominations will be open until July 31st, 2024.
Merit Award Categories.
To nominate an individual, business, or organization, use our online nomination form. Once your submission is made, the Co-operative Merit Award Selection Committee will review all of the information provided and make a selection. When a nominee is chosen as an award winner, both the nominee and nominator will be notified.
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This award recognizes an individual for their leadership, innovation, and achievements in co-operative business that further the social and economic development of the co-operative sector. Nominees must be current or former Saskatchewan residents who are members of co-operatives and credit unions and have served as elected officials or volunteers.
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This award recognizes a business or organization for its leadership, innovation, and achievements in co-operative business that further the social and economic development of the co-operative sector. Nominees must be current or former Saskatchewan businesses or organizations.
Merit Awards FAQs.
How do I submit my nomination?
We are currently accepting nominations for the 2024 Co-operative Merit Awards! To nominate an individual, business, or organization, use our online nomination form.
How are award recipients selected?
Nominations will be reviewed by the Co-operative Merit Award Selection Committee. Both the nominees and nominators will be notified if the nominee has been selected as an award recipient.
What info should I include?
We recommend that you share stories of the impact your nominee has had. Include specific examples of the nominee's contributions to the betterment of each co-operative they've been involved with.
What happens after selection?
If your nominee wins, then they will be required to validate the accuracy of the information, and consent to the publishing of any photographs or provided by the nominator.
How many nominees can I submit?
You can submit nominations for different people or organizations in multiple categories - but not the same person in multiple categories. If you're not sure of the appropriate award category, the selection committee will change it if needed.
My nominee wasn’t selected.
Nominations for individuals not selected as an award recipient can be revised and re-submitted in a subsequent year. Self nominations for the Co-operative Enterprise Award are welcome.
2023 Co-operative Merit Award Recipients.
Scott Banda
2023 Lifetime Co-operative Achievement Award
During his time as CEO of Federated Co-operatives Limited, Scott led the transformation of one of Saskatchewan’s largest businesses. Culture, brand, people practices and business performance – among other strategic areas - were revitalized. Now retired, Scott continues to be a brand ambassador on the local, national and international stages. Read Scott’s full bio.
Jim Deane
2023 Lifetime Co-operative Achievement Award
Jim Deane has a legacy as a trailblazer at Access Communications Co-operative. He was responsible for the growth of the co-op from a relatively small cable television company in Regina to a significant player in the provincial telecommunications industry. Now retired after 42 years, Jim remains deeply connected to the co-op sector and his community. Read Jim’s full bio.
Larry Malinowski
2023 Lifetime Co-operative Achievement Award
Larry retired from the Cornerstone Credit Union board in 2022. His legacy includes a unique collaboration agreement between Cornerstone, Conexus and Innovation credit unions which resulted in sharing resources like internal audits and developing a wealth management subsidiary. Read Larry’s full bio.
Crocus Co-operative
2023 Co-operative Enterprise Award
Since 1983, Saskatoon-based Crocus Co-operative has helped break down the stigma surrounding mental illness while providing its members with a sense of belonging and purpose. The co-operative model ensures that the organization is meeting the needs of its clientele. Read more about Crocus Co-operative.