The U.S. Chamber of Commerce has announced the names of seven finalists for its 2023 America's Top Small Business Awards.
The finalists, chosen from a field of 70 winners, have distinguished themselves as pioneers in both community engagement and innovation. The winner will receive the title of America's Top Small Business and a cash prize of $25,000.
Here are the Chamber of Commerce's top seven small business finalists. This list sets the stage for the highly anticipated announcement of winners at America's Top Small Business Summit: Ready, Set, Scale, scheduled for October 19th.
Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals LLC (Anchorage, Alaska))
Northwest Regional Finalist
Founded in 2018 by benefit auction specialist Dan Newman, Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals (APAA) has achieved a 98% sell-through rate, raised more than $3 million for Alaska nonprofits, and led Alaska It has become the top auction house in the state. APAA specializes in proactively supporting clients' unique needs through all life changes, staying true to our motto of “Service Above Self.” The auction house values diversity, ethics, and cultural sensitivity throughout its operations, demonstrating a firm commitment to maintaining a workforce that reflects Alaska's diverse population and respectfully representing its unique assets. .
[Read More: Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals Puts Quality Above All Else]
Cargo Gardens (Freehold, New Jersey)
Eastern Regional Finalist
Cargo Gardens actively embodies the spirit of “Harmony by Design” with its landscaping services and boutique nursery. The company is rooted in a rich family history dating back to his 1948 and has developed under the ownership of Marquestmin and Penny Estomin and their sons and nephews. During the pandemic, Cargo Gardens adapted well by expanding its landscaping services and developing a close-knit team of dedicated employees. The company actively engages with the Monmouth County, N.J., community through educational initiatives, farm cafes, and “Art in the Garden” events, firmly establishing itself as a valued community resource.
[Read More: Calgo Gardens Offers ‘Harmony by Design’]
Instruments for the Elderly (Lansing, Michigan)
Great Lakes Region Finalists
Founded in 1972 by Stan Werbin, Oldly Instruments has become a renowned haven for fretted instrument enthusiasts. Led by Stan's daughter, Lillian, the business is growing as a second-generation family-run business, guided by core values and a mission to bring the joy of music to everyone. In addition to supporting diversity and inclusion in the music scene, Olderly Instruments actively participates in community initiatives, a testament to the power of a family-owned business with a strong vision.
[Read More: Elderly Instruments Aims to Be a ‘Custodian of Musical Heritage’]
PLAY Pet Lifestyle and You (San Francisco, California)
Western Regional Finalist
Ten years ago, Will and Deb Chen founded PLAY Pet Lifestyle and You to provide modern pet owners with eco-friendly pet products. The company, which is B Corp certified, prioritizes sustainability by using recycled materials such as PlanetFill filler. In addition to providing high quality, creatively designed pet products, PLAY actively supports job creation and community involvement. We partner with local businesses and initiatives like the Warm Berries Initiative and Scholars Helping Colors Scholarship Program to benefit animal shelters and young animal advocates.
[Read More: How P.L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle and You Is Creating a Sustainable Future Through Eco-Friendly Pet Products]
River Rock Outfitter (Fredericksburg, Virginia)
Southeast Regional Finalist
Led by CEO April Peterson, River Rock Outfitter positions itself as a community-focused outdoor brand with a predominantly female staff. Peterson is actively involved in the community and focuses on inclusivity, with initiatives like GirlsGO! and her women-centered programs make this business a beacon of inclusivity and community service. The company's introduction of her Re-Boot with River Rock commissioning program not only ensured financial longevity, but also gained national attention for its professional and customer-focused approach.
[Read More: River Rock Outfitter Is ‘Making Adventure Happen’ with Customer-Forward Thinking]
Shakopee Brewhall – Taproom & Coffee House (Shakopee, MN)
Midwest Regional Finalist
Shakopee Brewhall has been serving the community with experimental beer styles and handcrafted coffee since 2018. This hybrid coffee house and brewery provides a hub for a vintage-inspired community and has won numerous awards. Known for his inclusive atmosphere, employee flexibility, and commitment to community engagement, he grows the local community through partnerships and initiatives, including his fundraising efforts that have raised over $50,000 for various organizations. Contributing to
[Read More: How Shakopee Brewhall Is Revitalizing Its Community Through Experimental Brews and Coffee]
Waggin' Tails Pet Ranch (Fulshear, Texas)
Southwest/South Central Region Finalist
Family-owned and operated since 2005, Waggin' Tails Pet Ranch operates as an all-inclusive pet resort offering boarding, grooming, day camp, pet boutique, and training services. He has two stores in Fullshare that stand out for their extensive list of pet services, 15-acre grounds with playgrounds, and strong community involvement, all of which are recognized by the Katy Regional Chamber of Commerce's He It has won recognition and awards such as Business of the Business. Year. The resort provides personalized experiences for pets and their owners, and actively partners with charities and local educational institutions to contribute to the community and local economy.
[Read More: Waggin’ Tails Pet Ranch Offers a One-of-a-Kind Experience]
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