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 pool of 70 award winners, stand out as trailblazers in both community action and innovation. The winner will receive the title of America's Top Small Business and her $25,000 cash prize.
Here are the Chamber's top seven small business finalists, a list that sets the stage for the highly anticipated announcement of the winners at America's Top Small Business Summit: Ready, Set, Scale, scheduled for Oct. 19.
Alaska Premier Auction & Appraisal LLC (Anchorage, Alaska))
Northwest Regional Finalist
Founded in 2018 by benefit auction specialist Dan Newman, Alaska Premier Auction & Appraisals (APAA) has become the top auction house in Alaska, achieving a 98% sale rate and raising more than $3 million for Alaska nonprofits. APAA specializes in proactively supporting the unique needs of its clients through all life's transitions and remains true to its motto, “Service over Self.” The auction house values diversity, ethics and cultural sensitivity throughout its operations, maintains a workforce that reflects Alaska's diverse population, and demonstrates an unwavering commitment to respectfully representing Alaska's unique assets.
[Read More: Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals Puts Quality Above All Else]
Cargo Gardens (Freehold, New Jersey)
Eastern Region Finalists
Calgo Gardens is a landscaping service and boutique nursery shop that actively embodies the spirit of “Harmony by Design.” Rooted in a rich family history dating back to 1948, the company has thrived under the management of Mark and Penny Estomin and their son and nephew. During the pandemic, Calgo Gardens has adapted well by expanding its landscaping services and cultivating a close-knit team of dedicated employees. Through education initiatives, farm cafes, and “Art in the Garden” events, the company has actively engaged with the Monmouth County, NJ community, firmly establishing itself as a valued local resource.
[Read More: Calgo Gardens Offers ‘Harmony by Design’]
Instruments for the Elderly (Lansing, Michigan)
Great Lakes Regional Finalist
Founded in 1972 by Stan Werbin, Olderly Instruments has become a renowned haven for fretted instrument enthusiasts. Led by Stan's daughter, Lillian, the business thrives as a second generation family-owned business, guided by core values and a mission to bring the joy of music to everyone. Olderly Instruments not only supports diversity and inclusion in the music scene, but is also actively involved in community initiatives, a testament to the power of a strong family-run vision.
[Read More: Elderly Instruments Aims to Be a ‘Custodian of Musical Heritage’]
PLAY Pet Lifestyle and You (San Francisco, California)
Western Region Finalists
Ten years ago, Will and Deb Chen founded PLAY Pet Lifestyle and You to provide eco-friendly pet products for the modern pet owner. As a certified B Corp, the company prioritizes sustainability by using recycled materials such as PlanetFill fillers. In addition to providing high-quality, uniquely designed pet products, PLAY actively supports job creation and community activism. They partner with local businesses and initiatives such as the Warm Bellies Initiative and the Scholars Helping Collars scholarship program to support animal shelters and young animal rights activists.
[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 Finalists
Led by CEO April Peterson, River Rock Outfitters stands out as a community-focused, outdoor specialty brand staffed primarily by women. Peterson's active community engagement and focus on inclusivity, with initiatives like GirlsGO! and female-centric programs, have made the company a pioneer in inclusivity and community service. The introduction of the company's Re-Boot with River Rock commission program not only ensured the company's long-term financial viability, but also garnered national attention for its professional, customer-focused approach.
[Read More: River Rock Outfitter Is ‘Making Adventure Happen’ with Customer-Forward Thinking]
Shakopee Brewhall – Taproom & Coffee House, Shakopee, Minnesota
Midwest Regional Finalists
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 Regional Finalist
Waggin' Tails Pet Ranch has been a family-owned business since 2005, operating as an all-inclusive pet resort offering pet boarding, grooming, day camps, pet boutique and training services. With two locations in Fulshear, the resort stands out for its extensive pet services, 15 acres with play areas and strong community involvement – all of which has earned it accolades such as the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce's Business of the Year award. The resort offers a personalized experience for pets and their owners and actively partners with charitable organizations 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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