Honouring Hamilton’s Visionary Leaders
Launched in 2012, Niagara 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards program has become one of the city’s most anticipated annual events, celebrating young leaders making a difference in their fields and communities.
Over a decade, the program has recognized 400+ professionals, each leaving a unique mark on Hamilton’s economic, cultural, and social development. From entrepreneurs and executives to educators, healthcare workers, and community advocates, recipients exemplify excellence and leadership.
Nominate:
Nominate a business individual under 40 for the 2026 40u40 Program—celebrate their leadership and excellence today!
Apply:
Join us as a young professional shaping Hamilton's future—apply today and showcase your impactful achievements!
Support the Event:
Sponsor, advertise, or volunteer to support this transformative event.
13th Annual Hamilton 40 Under Forty
Business Achievement Awards Ceremony
Niagara Falls, ON, Canada
29 October, 2026
Business Link Media Group launched the Hamilton 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards in 2012 to recognize the city's emerging business leaders and celebrate the remarkable contributions they make to Hamilton's economy, community, and entrepreneurial ecosystem.
On October 29, 2026, Business Link Media Group will proudly recognize 40 outstanding individuals under the age of 40 whose leadership, innovation, and commitment are helping shape the future of Hamilton. In addition to celebrating this year's recipients, the awards gala will bring together business professionals, community leaders, and sponsors for an evening of meaningful networking and partnership opportunities.
Through the Hamilton 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards program, Business Link Media Group is committed to showcasing exceptional young professionals as role models and inspiring the next generation of business leaders. Following the 2026 awards, the program will have recognized 520 outstanding business leaders across Hamilton over its first 13 years.
Corporate Sponsor
Best in Class Sponsor
Alumni Impact Award Sponsor
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Automotive Sponsors
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Silver Excellence Sponsors
Bronze Leadership Sponsor
Networking Sponsor Sponsor
Brand Spotlight Sponsors
Masters of Ceremony
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Born and raised in Hamilton, Ontario, Vince Genuardi has spent over a decade in senior living leadership, serving as a General Manager, Executive Director, and CEO.
Both a 2023 40 Under Forty honouree and Best in Class recipient. Vince proudly returns for his third year as Master of Ceremonies for the Hamilton 40 under Forty prestigious event.
2025 Hamilton 40 Under Forty
Business Achievement Awards Gala Recap
On October 30, 2025, nearly 300 guests gathered at Carmen’s Event Centre to celebrate the remarkable accomplishments of Hamilton’s rising business leaders during the 12th Annual 40 Under Forty Business Achievement Awards Gala. The evening brought together entrepreneurs, professionals, and community champions whose innovation and leadership continue to shape the city’s future.
The event’s highlights included the presentation of the Alumni Impact Award to Michael Macaluso, a 2014 alumnus, sponsored by UFCW Canada. This honour recognized his lasting influence, professional excellence, and continued commitment to community growth. The Best in Class Award, sponsored by Deso Construction, was presented to Ornella Marinic in recognition of her outstanding contributions and leadership within Hamilton’s business community.
With the support of 34 local sponsors and partners, the 2025 gala once again reflected the collaborative spirit that drives Hamilton’s business community forward. Over the past 12 years, the Hamilton 40 Under Forty program has celebrated 480 emerging leaders, showcasing the city’s ongoing dedication to innovation, leadership, and community excellence.
