Introducing our 2016 Small Business of the Year finalists

We are pleased to announce the ten finalists for our 2016 Small Business of the Year award. This is the twelfth year for the Small Business Awards program, which is presented by the 2015 award recipients: Cornerstone Design and Development, Inc. and Zernco, Inc. In addition to offering well-deserved recognition to small businesses for their achievements and contributions to our community, the program provides owners and their employees the opportunity to showcase their company, share their story, and be rewarded for their efforts. “Small businesses are at the heart of our community, with almost 90% of our members falling into the small business category,” Chamber President Gary Plummer said. “This program is one of the ways we can recognize the outstanding small businesses that are creating jobs, giving back to Wichita and making this a stronger community. Congratulations to each of these finalists.” The award program is split into two categories: Tier One, for companies with 25 employees or less; and Tier Two, for companies with between 26 and 100 employees.

Tier One Finalists Patton Termite and Pest Control Specs Eyewear TheraPlay Spot Tru-Building, Inc. Xclusive Events

Tier Two Finalists Builders Plus Construction, LLC Charles E. Mahaney Roofing Company ComfortCare Homes, Inc. Midwest Single Source, Inc. The Martens Company

More than 100 small businesses were nominated for the award, and 25 completed the application process. The finalists will be featured at a Sunrise Scrambler event on April 14, and an Awards Luncheon will be held on May 11 to announce this year’s winners. To apply for the award, companies must be headquartered in Wichita, have been in business at least three years, and be Chamber members. Applicants are then evaluated on their business success, employee relations and community contributions. New to the Small Business Awards program this year is the Engage and Ignite Small Business Conference, which will take place from 9-11 a.m. prior to the Awards Luncheon on May 11. The conference will feature nine different workshops covering topics like employee appreciation, marketing, family business issues, growth and more. More information about the Small Business Awards program and a complete list of past winners can be found at wichitachamber.org/awards. 2016 Finalists