George Lepp, owner of Lepp Farms, embodies the spirit of the Keystone Awards, said founder Dean French — and his achievements could soon earn him a chance to chat with none other than Arlene Dickinson, entrepreneur and “Dragons’ Den” star next week.
The Keystone Awards, taking place on Feb. 12 at Peller Estates Winery & Restaurant, celebrate job creators and entrepreneurs. It highlights small to medium-sized businesses, which are the backbone of Canada’s economy, said French.
Tickets, which include drinks, a meal at Peller and a keynote talk from Dickinson for $150, are sold out. However, a waiting list is available.
French wants to put more focus on the role small medium enterprises play in growing the economy and thinks entrepreneurial spirit is something each riding should pay attention to.
“Entrepreneurship is what makes Canada, Canada,” said event producer Alana Hurov.
SMEs are businesses with a small to medium-sized workforce, which play a role in driving a riding’s economy, French said. Keystone awards are exclusive to businesses with at least 50 employees.
The Top 10 employers in four ridings: Niagara Falls, Niagara Centre, Niagara West and St. Catharines — will be recognized at the awards ceremony.
Canada needs SMEs or else we wouldn’t have a tax base strong enough to afford public education, healthcare and programs like the Canada pension plan, he said.
“Without them (SMEs), the math doesn’t work for Canada.”
As one of the main suppliers for grapes at Peller, Lepp’s business employs up to 120 people during its peak season, said French.
“He seems to me like the typical keystone business owner winner that we need. He gives a lot of credit to his team and to his employees,” he said.
Hurov said Lepp is deeply involved in the community both through his philanthropic efforts and his leadership in the local economy through his farm.
“That’s the essence of the Keystone Awards — to support the people that create jobs. George is one of those people who does it well and has been doing it for a really long time,” she said.
