The U.S. Chamber of Commerce released the names of the seven finalists for its 2023 America’s Top Small Business Awards.
The finalists, who were selected from a group of 70 honorees, have distinguished themselves as trailblazers in both community involvement and innovation. The winner will receive the title of America’s Top Small Business and a $25,000 cash prize.
Here is a look at the Chamber’s seven top small business finalists. This list sets the stage for the eagerly anticipated announcement of the winning company at America’s Top Small Business Summit: Ready, Set, Scale, scheduled for Oct. 19.
Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals LLC (Anchorage, AK)
Northwest region finalist
Founded by Benefit Auctioneer Specialist Dan Newman in 2018, Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals (APAA) has become Alaska's top auction house, achieving a 98% sell-through rate and raising over $3 million for Alaskan nonprofits. APAA specializes in actively supporting its clients' unique needs through all of life's transitions while deeply adhering to its motto, "service above self." The auction house places a strong emphasis on diversity, ethics, and cultural sensitivity throughout its operations, maintaining a workforce that mirrors Alaska's diverse population and demonstrating a steadfast commitment to representing unique assets with respect.
[Read More: Alaska Premier Auctions & Appraisals Puts Quality Above All Else]
Calgo Gardens (Freehold, NJ)
Eastern region finalist
In its landscaping services and boutique nursery shop, Calgo Gardens actively embodies the ethos of "Harmony by Design." The company, rooted in a rich family history dating back to 1948, has evolved under the ownership of Mark and Penny Estomin and their sons and nephew. During the pandemic, Calgo Gardens successfully adapted by expanding its landscaping services and nurturing a close-knit team of dedicated employees. Through educational initiatives, a farmhouse café, and "Art in the Garden" events, the company actively engages with the Monmouth County, New Jersey community, firmly establishing itself as a cherished local resource.
[Read More: Calgo Gardens Offers ‘Harmony by Design’]
Elderly Instruments (Lansing, MI)
Great Lakes region finalist
Founded in 1972 by Stan Werbin, Elderly 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 enterprise, guided by core values and a mission to make the joy of music accessible to all. Not only does Elderly Instruments support diversity and inclusion in the music scene, it also actively engages in community initiatives and stands as a testament to the power of a strong family business vision.
[Read More: Elderly Instruments Aims to Be a ‘Custodian of Musical Heritage’]
P.L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle And You (San Francisco, CA)
Western region finalist
A decade ago, Will and Deb Chen founded P.L.A.Y. Pet Lifestyle and You to provide eco-friendly pet products for modern pet owners. The company, which holds a B Corp certification, prioritizes sustainability by using recycled materials like PlanetFill filler. In addition to offering high-quality and creatively designed pet products, P.L.A.Y. also actively supports job creation and community engagement: It partners with local businesses and initiatives like the Warm Bellies Initiative and Scholars Helping Collars 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, VA)
Southeastern region finalist
Led by CEO April Peterson, River Rock Outfitter distinguishes itself as a community-focused specialty outdoor brand with a predominantly female staff. Peterson's active involvement in the community and focus on inclusivity, along with initiatives like GirlsGO! and women-centric programs, have made the business a beacon of inclusivity and community service. The introduction of the company’s Re-Boot with River Rock consignment program has not only ensured its financial longevity but also attracted national attention for its specialized 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 region finalist
Shakopee Brewhall has been serving experimental beer styles and handcrafted coffees to the community since 2018. The hybrid coffee house and brewery offers a vintage-inspired community hub and has received numerous awards. It's known for its inclusive atmosphere, flexibility for employees, and commitment to community engagement, contributing to the growth of the local community through partnerships and initiatives, including fundraisers that have raised over $50,000 for various organizations.
[Read More: How Shakopee Brewhall Is Revitalizing Its Community Through Experimental Brews and Coffee]
Waggin' Tails Pet Ranch (Fulshear, TX)
Southwest/South Central region finalist
Waggin’ Tails Pet Ranch, a family-owned business since 2005, operates as an all-inclusive pet resort offering boarding, grooming, day camp, a pet boutique, and training services. With two locations in Fulshear, it stands out for its expansive list of pet services, 15-acre property with play yards, and strong community engagement, all of which have earned it recognition and awards such as the Katy Area Chamber of Commerce’s Business of the Year. The resort provides tailored, personable experiences for pets and owners, and actively partners with charities and local educational institutions to contribute to the community and the local economy.
[Read More: Waggin’ Tails Pet Ranch Offers a One-of-a-Kind Experience]
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