We Won! How Mountain Mac Solutions Became an Award-Winning Tech Support Business in the Kootenays

I’m incredibly proud (and honestly a bit surprised) to share some big news: Mountain Mac Solutions was named Best Mobile Phone Shop – Southern Interior BC in the 2022 Canadian Business Awards, hosted by Corporate Vision Magazine.

As a sole proprietor based in Nelson, BC, this kind of recognition feels unreal—but it’s also incredibly rewarding. When I started Mountain Mac Solutions, I had no idea it would grow into something that could get international attention. I just wanted to help people make sense of the technology in their homes and lives. Turns out, that simple idea resonated.

Why I Started This Business

Technology has always fascinated me—but more than that, I’ve always loved helping people. I started Mountain Mac Solutions to provide something I felt was missing: honest, personalized tech support for everyday folks.

No sales pressure. No tech jargon. No passing the buck to a call center.

Just one-on-one support, whether you need help with your iPhone, Wi-Fi setup, printer issues, Mac, or syncing your smart home devices. If it plugs in, connects to the internet, or beeps—I’m probably the guy you call in the Kootenays.

The Moment Everything Changed

Like a lot of small businesses, the pandemic turned everything upside down. Overnight, people needed tech more than ever—Zoom calls, remote work, online learning, grocery delivery apps, virtual family dinners. And a lot of people didn’t have the support to get it all working.

That’s when I realized this business could be more than just fixing broken phones—it could be a lifeline.

So I pivoted: I expanded into remote support, made home visits safer, and tried to be there for the people who needed help most. Whether it was a senior struggling to join a video call with their grandkids, or a family trying to boost their Wi-Fi so the kids could attend online classes—I was there. Honestly, it was some of the most meaningful work I’ve ever done.

A Small Business with a Big Heart

I don’t have a staff, but what I do have is a toolbox full of tools, a brain full of solutions, and a heart full of gratitude for the people of the Kootenays who’ve supported me.

Every visit I make—whether it’s to Kaslo, Castlegar, Slocan, or right here in Nelson—I treat it like a visit to a neighbour’s home. Because in many ways, it is; I live here too.

This award isn’t just about being the “best mobile phone shop.” It is about being someone you can trust when tech gets confusing, frustrating, or just plain weird.

What This Award Means to Me

When I got the email from Corporate Vision, I was honestly a bit stunned. I hadn’t applied for anything. I didn’t even know I was nominated.

But apparently, someone had noticed what I was doing—and that meant the world to me.

“After a challenging 18 months, it is a testament to your determination and dedication to have triumphed despite many unique difficulties and pressures.”
– Corporate Vision Awards Panel

To be recognized as Best Mobile Phone Shop – Southern Interior BC… well, that’s humbling. It’s a reminder that even the smallest business can have a big impact.

What I Actually Do

For those who are just discovering Mountain Mac Solutions, here’s a quick rundown of what I offer:

• 📱iPhone & iPad setup

• 💻 Computer setup, upgrades & training

• 🌐 Wi-Fi and home networking help (including mesh systems)

• 🧠 Smart home devices (HomeKit, Alexa, Google Home, etc.)

• 🔐 Basic cybersecurity & safe browsing tips

• 🖨️ Printer & device troubleshooting

• 👵 Tech support tailored for seniors

• 🧑‍💻 Remote support via screen-sharing for Canadian clients

I focus on home users, seniors, creatives, and small business owners who want tech that works without the stress. I also try to reuse, repair, and recycle when possible, because good tech shouldn’t go to waste—and neither should your money. For more information visit our Services page.

Real Words from Real People

If you’re wondering what it’s like to work with me, here’s what a few clients have shared:

“John helped me sort out my Wi-Fi after months of frustration. He explained everything so clearly. I finally feel in control of my home internet.”
— Linda P., Nelson, BC

“My parents needed help with their iPads and couldn’t figure out FaceTime. John came by and was so patient with them. Now we can video chat every week!”
— Natalie R., Vancouver (for her parents in the Slocan Valley)

“Fast, honest, and trustworthy. I won’t go anywhere else for tech help.”
— Peter H., Castlegar

What’s Next?

I’m not planning to become a big chain or start franchising. I like being the guy who shows up, rolls up his sleeves, and gets the job done. But I do plan to keep growing—maybe adding some new services, improving remote support, and continuing to learn as technology changes.

What I really want is to keep doing what I do—just better, every year.

More people are turning to smart home devices, mobile-first workflows, and online everything. I want to be the local expert you call to make sure all those pieces work together safely, reliably, and stress-free.

Thank You, Kootenays

If you’ve ever hired me, recommended me, or even just passed along my name—thank you. This award is a win for all of us. I wouldn’t be here without the amazing people who call this region home.

Being your tech guy is an honour.

Related Articles:

https://www.corporatevision-news.com/issues/canadian-business-awards-2022/36/

https://kootenaybiz.com/nelson/article/mountain_mac_solutions_wins_canadian_business_award