We were awarded Business of the Year (one to ten employees) by the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce at the Business Excellence Awards Gala on March 23, 2023!

The event is dedicated to recognizing outstanding business achievements for the 2022 calendar year. During a time when many organizations were mitigating risk by cutting back on expendable marketing expenses, we believed that during a tough economic period, there is a unique opportunity to re-envision how things have been done, get creative and forge new paths - both for ourselves and our clients. 

“During the height of the pandemic, the uncertainty felt by organizations we serve was palpable. Leaders were concerned about how job losses, lockdowns and business closures would affect donor behaviour and their ability to achieve their mission. The way fundraising was being done had to change in order to meet the needs on the field,” said Ellen Graf-Martin. “As a team, we decided to come alongside those who wanted to intentionally shift into a refreshed mission. The organizations who have worked with us for the past two years have seen budgets surpassed and their share of voice and volunteer bases increased. In one of the toughest times in recent history, we have good news to share - our clients are thriving.”

The Business of the Year achievement is given to an outstanding business or organization with one to ten, full-time employees in the past year that has: been operational for a minimum of two consecutive years, demonstrated innovative and proactive leadership within their business or industry, and measurable success as a business, practiced good corporate citizenship and made exceptional contributions by promoting community betterment.

As a Women Business Enterprises Council certified agency, we were also recognized for launching The Change Makers Podcast, one of the firsts of its kind in the Canadian nonprofit sector, and a brand new, accessible fundraising platform launching spring 2023, Fundraising for Good.

“Graf-Martin Communications Inc. has made a significant impact in supporting non-profit organizations, shifting dramatically to develop accessible solutions,” said Ian McLean, President of the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce. “They have seen great overall success with high employee satisfaction scores, amazing client retention, and steady growth in revenue.”

We have grown year-over-year since our inception in 2008, without acquiring debt. This ensures that our employees have stable jobs, and growth opportunities, and can focus on the work they love to do. What started as a potential freelance opportunity for us, is now a small business with ten employees and multiple contractors who are committed to resourcing an under-served, under-resourced charitable sector. 

The Business Excellence Awards Gala (BEA Gala) is one of the region’s premiere events. It is produced by the Greater Kitchener-Waterloo Chamber of Commerce which recognizes outstanding local businesses and their achievements. Every year, the BEA Gala is attended by over 900 members, representing organizations of every size - small, medium, and international, including the area's most respected and recognized industry leaders.