"Forty-nine top entrepreneurs who have demonstrated leadership, drive and innovation have been chosen from an impressive list of nominees as Prairies region finalists in the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Of The Year 2006 awards."

Reviewing this list is fascinating to see the wide diversity of business types. From a company that specializes in Flax Seed products to a manufacturer of micro-electro-mechanical systems shows that a small business can really come from almost anywhere and almost sell anything.

Here are a few of the 49 nominees whose businesses I recognized...

Brent Trepel
Ben Moss Jewellers (Fine jewellery retailer)
Winnipeg, MB
www.benmoss.com

Eveline Charles
Eveline Charles Salons & Spas (Hair salon, day spa and product manufacturer)
Edmonton, AB
www.evelinecharles.com

Ravinder Minhas
Mountain Crest Brewing Company (Craft brewery)
Calgary, AB
www.damngoodbeer.ca

"On October 12, 2006, a finalist in each business category will be presented with a regional category award during a gala celebration, with one category recipient then being awarded the title Entrepreneur Of The Year for the Prairies region. The Prairies award recipient goes on to compete with top entrepreneurs from the Pacific, Ontario, Quebec and Atlantic regions for the coveted national honour of Entrepreneur Of The Year, to be announced November 2, 2006, in Ottawa. In June 2007, Canada's Entrepreneur Of The Year moves to the world stage, joining more than 35 country recipients participating in the international competition for the title of World Entrepreneur Of The Year."

Take a look at the list and share your favorite or who you are rooting for by leaving a comment.