2025 Business Excellence
Award Winners

The Board of the Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce is pleased to announce that Bob Downham of D & S Downham Ltd. is the 2026 Business Leader Award Recipient. For more than six decades, Bob Downham has exemplified what it means to be a business leader. Through vision, innovation, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to his employees, customers, and community, he has built a business that has earned the respect of the agricultural industry and the community it serves. His leadership has not only grown a successful multi-generational company but has also created lasting economic and social benefits throughout Southwestern Ontario. Impact on Business Bob continued to build the family business, established in 1961 by his father Cecil, into a leading regional equipment dealership serving Southwestern Ontario. He successfully expanded through the addition of major brands including Kubota and Kärcher and the acquisition of multiple dealerships, continuing to diversify the business during the economic challenges of the 1980s, ensuring long-term stability and growth. With new demands from customers Bob adapted to industry change by creating new business opportunities and investing in innovative customer service, including mobile service operations. Mark Downham, Bob’s son, now operates the family business, showcasing a successful transition of the business to the next generation while maintaining continued growth. Bob invested in apprenticeships, mentorship, leadership development, and provided meaningful co-op placements for high school students, encouraging careers in skilled trades and agriculture. He also created opportunities for women to advance into leadership positions within the organization. Impact on the Community Bob has been a long-time supporter of agricultural fairs, 4-H, trade shows, Home and Garden Shows, and the International Plowing Match. All of which are integral for rural community and its economy. He also served on numerous community and industry boards and organizations (Children's Aid Society, Ontario Retail Farm Equipment Dealers Association, Iron Solutions, Connect Equipment) and supported Stratford General Hospital and many local charitable initiatives. During the pandemic he created a community garden, donating produce to a local food bank. Bob also took the time to be a volunteer coach for minor baseball and hockey, a role that is a large time commitment and in great need. Bob has more than 60 years of business leadership built on integrity, innovation, and service. The Stratford & District Chamber of Commerce is delighted to have Bob be the Business Leader of the Year Award and the guest speaker at the 30th Annual Business Excellence Awards Gala on November 5, 2026, at the Tom Patterson Theatre. The evening will celebrate local business leaders who have made an exceptional impact in Stratford and the surrounding area. Selection Process The Business Leader of the Year is selected through a three-step secret ballot process by the Chamber Board of Directors. After nominations are put forth and a curated list is created, the Board conducts multiple rounds of secret ballots until a clear winner is determined.