The Atlantic Award Initiative (AAI), formerly known as the Atlantic Award Group (AAG), is a prestigious and long-standing awards program dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the remarkable achievements and contributions of individuals, groups, organizations and movements in the Atlantic region, encompassing Eastern Canada and the United Kingdom. With a deep commitment to honouring excellence, AAI serves as a beacon for those who have gone above and beyond.
Our Mission: Discovering and Honouring the Extraordinary
At the heart of the Atlantic Award Initiative is a mission that is both straightforward and deeply meaningful: to seek out and honour the extraordinary. What sets AAI apart from other award programs is our unique approach; rather than confining ourselves to predefined categories, we ask one pivotal question: “Who is extraordinary and why?” This open-ended inquiry allows us to cast a wide net, capturing a diverse array of achievements that might otherwise go unrecognized.
This methodology has led to the acknowledgment of a wide spectrum of extraordinary individuals. From lifesaving heroes who have shown remarkable courage in the face of danger to exceptional charity workers who have dedicated their lives to improving the well-being of others, AAI celebrates a rich tapestry of human excellence. Our awards also extend to industry leaders who have driven innovation and progress, sports achievers who have demonstrated remarkable talent and perseverance, and countless others whose contributions have made a significant impact. The extraordinary, we believe, is all around us, and our mission is to bring these inspiring stories to light.
Our Origins and Evolution: A Journey Across the Atlantic
The origins of the Atlantic Award Initiative are deeply rooted in the traditions of Somerset, England. It was there, in that historic county, that the awards were first launched as a local event with a clear purpose: to acknowledge outstanding individuals within the community. The initiative quickly gained traction, becoming a cherished local tradition known for its commitment to celebrating the very best of Somerset.
Building on this success, the founder of the program made a bold decision to relocate to Atlantic Canada and expand the awards beyond Somerset. Recognizing the potential to honour exceptional individuals across the Atlantic, the project was relocated to the East Coast of Canada. In Halifax, Nova Scotia, the sister project known as the Haliwards was introduced. This move was met with overwhelming success, as the Haliwards quickly established itself as a significant event, drawing attention and participation from across the region. Within 2 short years it was recognized by the provincial government for its contributions.
The success of the Haliwards inspired the creation of additional initiatives in various provinces throughout Eastern Canada. However, it soon became apparent that a more unified and sustainable approach was needed to maintain the high standards and level of care that had become synonymous with the awards. In 2013, a strategic decision was made to consolidate these projects under a single banner, leading to the formation of the Atlantic Award Group. This consolidation brought together the resources, expertise, and vision needed to ensure the continued success of the awards. With the support of private partners, the Atlantic Award Group was able to maintain its commitment to recognizing the extraordinary.
Adapting to Change: A Journey Through Challenges
From 2013 to 2015, the Atlantic Award Group hosted annual award ceremonies that became landmark events in both Atlantic Canada and the United Kingdom. These ceremonies were marked by their grandeur and the profound impact they had on the communities they served. However, as the program grew, so did the challenges. By 2016-17, the awards were presented in smaller, more intimate settings across various locations. This shift was driven by the increasing demands of other projects undertaken by Maine Group, as well as the rising costs associated with producing large-scale events.
Despite the success and continued interest in the awards, the logistical and financial pressures led to a difficult decision: to place the awards program on hiatus. During this period, only a limited number of awards were presented at conventions under the AAG brand. This hiatus, however, was not the end but rather a time for reflection and strategic planning, allowing the AAG to reassess its goals and the best path forward for the awards.
A New Era in 2024: Revitalizing the Atlantic Awards
The year 2024 marks a significant milestone for the Atlantic Award Group as the awards are revitalized and reintroduced to the public as AAI. This rebirth is largely thanks to the success of the Atlantic Entertainment Expo (AEX), another flagship project by Maine Group. Launched in 2019, AEX has quickly become a cultural phenomenon, growing significantly year over year and attracting thousands of attendees. The expo’s mission to enrich communities through diverse entertainment and educational experiences aligns perfectly with the values of the Atlantic Award Initiative.
Recognizing the synergy between AEX and AAI, the decision was made to reintroduce the Atlantic Awards, with funding sourced directly from the ticket sales of the expos. This innovative approach not only ensures the financial sustainability of the awards but also embeds them within a community-focused event that celebrates creativity, talent, and achievement.
The awards will now be presented during the show weekends in Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick, offering a dynamic and engaging platform to honor extraordinary individuals. Additionally, there are plans to expand the awards back to Nova Scotia, with the anticipated launch of AEX in the province in the near future. This expansion will bring the awards full circle, reconnecting with the roots of the Haliwards while embracing the growth and evolution of the program.
Looking Ahead: The Future of the Atlantic Award Initiative
As we look to the future, the Atlantic Award Initiative is committed to expanding its reach and impact. Plans are currently underway to bring the awards back to the United Kingdom, further cementing our transatlantic connection and honoring the extraordinary across two continents. We anticipate sharing more information on this exciting development in 2025.
The journey of the Atlantic Award Initiative is one of growth, adaptation, and unwavering commitment to celebrating the best in human achievement. As we continue to evolve, we remain dedicated to our mission of discovering and honouring the extraordinary, ensuring that these remarkable stories of courage, innovation, and compassion are given the recognition they deserve.