Yesterday, Canada Post announced the finalists for its fourth annual Canada Post E-Commerce Innovation Awards, which will take place on September 28 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre.
The Canada Post E-commerce Innovation Awards were created in 2012 to recognize Canada’s leading and emerging online retailers, as the event brings together hundreds of people from retail giants, venture capitalists and startups.
Finalists compete in categories separated by large and small retailers: best omni-channel retailer, best online shopping experience, best customer engagement, most exciting startup, and the community impact award. The latter award recognizes retailers who are making socially responsible efforts to improve local or global communities.
The finalists for the most exciting startup award include Thalmic Labs, the company behind the Myo armband; Top & Derby, a company that offers designer canes; Nerd Block, a monthly box of curated goodies targeted at nerds; Minitrade, which a network of gently used clothing; and Gribouille éducatif inc, an educational toolkit targeting children.
Small business finalists can receive prizes like $50,000 in free parcel shipping for small businesses, direct marketing services up to $25,000 and a customized marketing package.
While the event is sold out, the public can participate by voting for Canada Post’s Consumer Champion Award, which will go to any finalist that earns the most votes.