“We were scared to death” is perhaps an unusual way to start a speech but for Kevin Casey, Chief Idea Officer of The Idea Factory, being creative and pushing the envelope is what got his company recognized at 17th Annual St. John's Board of Trade Business Excellence Awards gala. This is the first of what could be many awards for the young comapny which was honoured for outstanding service, productivity and creativity in marketing and advertising.

The Idea Factory has been described as showing incredible breadth of character, unsurpassed creativity and unparalleled generosity," said incoming board chairman Derek Sullivan.

Nine other businesses were honoured in categories such as innovation, productivity improvement and corporate giving. Many of these local businesses export products and services around the world.

To read more about the award recipients, including business person and start up business of the year, please click here.