|
The Little Rock region has become a nationally-recognized hub for small businesses and entrepreneurs. Although Arkansas is home to several Fortune 500 companies, the vast majority of companies in the state are small businesses. Collectively, they have a significant economic impact, both at home and on a global scale.
To honor the outstanding small businesses in our region, the chamber will hold its inaugural Small Business Impact Awards, presented by Stone Bank, on Tuesday, May 14. We received an abundance of nominations from the community and are proud to announce the finalists in each category:
Small Business of the Year Apartment Hunters is a free, personalized apartment hunting service that assists clients locally and those who are relocating to the Little Rock area. They help individuals and families find the perfect place by providing them detailed information about the city and what it offers.
Southwest EAP is the oldest and largest independent EAP provider in Arkansas, serving clients since 1978. They provide counseling, consultation, risk management, training and organizational development services to companies both regionally and nationally.
The Steco Corporation was founded on the premise of solving problems for machinists and fabricators by creating great products and providing excellent service. Today the company makes industrial lubricants for the metalworking field under the Tap Magic brand name and ships these products all over the U.S. and internationally.
Small Business Owner 30 & Under of the Year Kait Hill is a co-owner of Rock City Digital, which does all things digital marketing, including search marketing and website design. Their team brings to the table people who have a passion and talent for SEO, SEM (aka Google Adwords), social media management, videography, website design, email marketing and more.
Shelby Joiner is the owner of Shelby & Company, INC, a company that provides online marketing, website development, graphic design, branding and training to small businesses. Additionally, they are a full-service sign shop that provides signs, banners and graphics.
Lorenzo Lewis is the Founder/CEO of L&J Empowerment, a 501c3 organization that focuses on mental wellness, academic success and economic prosperity. Their main initiative, the Confess Project, targets young men of color between the ages of 11-35 years old to provide mental health education and awareness.
Sustainable Small Business of the Year Originally established on August 2, 2018 as energy consultants, AEV Solar’s primary business line involves all work and processes pertaining to the installation and operation of photovoltaic power generation facilities (solar systems) in the residential sector.
Gearhead Outfitters is a local retailer passionate about serving the community. Their mission is, and always has been, to help our customers live active, fulfilling lives by providing quality outdoor-inspired products, backed by deep expertise and remarkable service. They focus on brand partnerships that support sustainability, conservation and fair business practices.
The Root Café’s mission is to build community through local food. They seek to foster a sense of connectedness among the individuals, families, organizations and businesses of central Arkansas by offering a focal point for sustainable activities in the area.
Health & Wellness Small Business of the Year Arkansas Family Dental is committed to providing comprehensive dental care to their patients by helping them obtain the best possible dental health throughout their lives.
Gearhead Outfitters is a local retailer passionate about serving the community. Their mission is, and always has been, to help our customers live active, fulfilling lives by providing quality outdoor-inspired products, backed by deep expertise and remarkable service. They focus on brand partnerships that support sustainability, conservation and fair business practices.
Southwest EAP is the oldest and largest independent EAP provider in Arkansas, serving clients since 1978. They provide counseling, consultation, risk management, training and organizational development services to companies both regionally and nationally.
Community Impact of the Year ACCESS Group, Inc. is a 501(c)3 nonprofit dedicated to expanding individual potential through innovative instruction for individuals with developmental disabilities and language and learning delays, age six weeks through adulthood.
Arkansas Hunger Relief Alliance, established in 2004, is a non-profit umbrella organization representing a network of six Feeding America food banks and more than 400 hunger relief organizations around the state.
The Arkansas Regional Innovation Hub is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving the lives of Arkansans by inspiring innovation and expanding opportunities as the first makerspace created in Arkansas.
Hope Credit Union provides affordable financial services, leverages private, public and philanthropic resources, and engages in policy analysis to fulfill its mission of strengthening communities, building assets and improving lives. They serve economically-distressed parts of Alabama, Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Tennessee.
|