RICHMOND HILL, ON—Chris Pereira, C17 Group founder and president, was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year at the Richmond Hill Business Awards, presented by the Chamber of Commerce.

"Recognition for hard work is always a great feeling. It's great to see the community investing in young businesses in support of a growing future," said Pereira (pictured on left), also a partner at Canadian Sport Compact Series, a motorsports racing event he co-founded in 2002.

C17 opened for business in 2010 and has since added creative and fulfillment services to its portfolio. With six employees, it specializes in larger format and digital printing.

Resource Integrated was also celebrated at the March 5 awards ceremony held at the Richmond Hill Centre for Performing Arts, garnering the Business Award for companies with 11-30 employees.

The retail fixture and signage print shop was founded in 2004 by president Tony Rubino and offers a range of services from concept, printing, on through to installation.

"I never went into business to win an award, or thought that doing what we love to do would constitute winning an award," said Rubino. "But we're happy and very pleased, and excited for what lies ahead."