(July 25, 2013) – Time is running out to nominate local businesses for the 27th Annual Small Business of the Year awards. Aug. 1 is the deadline to name a business for consideration by the Lone Star College System Small Business Development Center Advisory Council for this annual recognition. Each year, the council recognizes successful small businesses that make an impact in the local community and on the local economy. “Being nominated and then selected as a finalist last year had a huge positive impact on our business,” said F. Michael Lewis; CEP, vice president of operations for Entelrgy (EnergyCompete.com), a national company with local offices that operates as an energy consultant and broker.
“I can’t tell you how many people congratulated us for our selection as a finalist,” Lewis said. “Even though we didn’t walk away with the win, this exposure helped provide a significant boost to our bottom line.” Sal Mira, executive director of the LSCS-SBDC said the comments from Lewis are similar to what he hears from others as well.
“Generally, our local small business owners don’t always get the recognition they deserve,” Mira said. “This is a chance for community members to nominate a business they feel is doing a good job.” Mira said that the nomination process is not limited – individuals, as well as chambers and other groups, may nominate any business in the area – and there’s still time.
Guidelines and nomination forms are available by visiting sbdc.LoneStar.edu/. Nominations for this year’s awards are due to the SBDC by Aug. 1.
The LSCS-SBDC works with existing companies to help them get started, grow and compete in today's global economy. SBDC services are available for companies in every phase of the business life cycle, helping entrepreneurs make sound decisions and succeed. For more information about the SBDC visit sbdc.LoneStar.edu/
Lone Star College System has been opening doors to a better community for 40 years. Founded in 1973, LSCS remains steadfast in its commitment to student success and credential completion. Today, with 78,000 students in credit classes, and a total enrollment of more than 90,000, Lone Star College System is the largest institution of higher education in the Houston area and the fastest-growing community college system in the nation. Dr. Richard Carpenter is the chancellor of LSCS, which consists of six colleges including LSC-CyFair, LSC-Kingwood, LSC-Montgomery, LSC-North Harris, LSC-Tomball and LSC-University Park, Lone Star Corporate College, and LSC-Online. To learn more visit LoneStar.edu.