It’s all big when it comes to business!
By Laura Moore
Director, The Grace Museum
Chair, Abilene Chamber of Commerce Executive Board of Directors
If there’s one thing I’ve learned in my role as Chair of the Board of Directors of the Abilene Chamber of Commerce, it’s that small business is a really big deal to our organization.
We are so blessed to have a diverse, thriving business community and one that has endured so much adversity over the last few years.
For certain, there are many who are deserving of special recognition, and even more who have fought hard to thrive in such difficult times.
As you know, more than 85 percent of the Chamber’s growing membership are small business, most of whom employ 10 or less. In aggregate, these independent entrepreneurs and leaders add up to the largest economic impact on any community. They are, after all, the backbone of our economy.
As you also may know, each year since 1963 the President of the United States declares one week, usually in May, as National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners. Locally, it’s our opportunity to recognize and thank those who do much to help build a better community and a stronger economy for all of us.
This year, Abilene will celebrate National Small Business Week beginning on Sunday, May 1 and running through Saturday, May 7.
Our staff, with the support of so many member volunteers, have planned a week of events to let you know how important your small business is to Abilene’s economy.
I want to encourage you to think about nominating this year. You may nominate your own business or any other who meet the criteria for this year’s awards, including the Young Entrepreneur of the Year; the Small Business Community Investment Award; the Family-Owned Business of the Year; and New (Startup) Business of the Year). To be nominated is an honor in and of itself.
Finalists will be chosen by a committee of your peers, and awards will be presented at our annual Salute to Small Business Luncheon on Tuesday, May 3 from 11:30 – 1pm at 201 Mesquite Event Center in downtown Abilene. We will also recognize each and every nominee received in this year’s process.
Also joining us for the luncheon will be our friends and partners from America’s Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Texas Tech University and the federal Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC). We want to recognize both entities for their tireless effort to help grow small businesses in our region. I am always amazed when I consider all the businesses who are products of these two programs. Their services are provided free through federal, state and local partners and are invaluable to those who take advantage of them.
Many may not realize the robust network of local small business resource providers that exists in our area. This “ecosystem” of entrepreneurial support makes a real difference in the lives and bottom lines of those with whom they work. We are grateful for all that they do.
Please watch for updates on all the events that will take place during National Small Business Week, and add them to your calendar. As the Big Country’s chief business advocacy organization, your Chamber recognizes the hard work, determination and many sleepless nights our small business community experiences. And don’t forget, to be nominated is a reward in itself and a nomination serves as a great tribute to a company’s leadership and employees.
We look forward to celebrating with you during this special week!
As always, thank you for your support of the Chamber, and for the privilege of serving as your Chair of the Abilene Chamber!
Respectfully,
Laura Moore (The Grace Museum)
Chair of the Board
Abilene Chamber of Commerce