The San Diego Regional Chamber of Commerce has honored five small businesses and nonprofits for their significant contributions to the regional economy over the past year.
“Small businesses are the heart of our economy: fueling innovation, creating jobs and defining the character of communities across the San Diego region,” said Chris Cate, president and CEO of the chamber, at the annual awards ceremony last Thursday.
“We celebrate the resilience, ingenuity and community impact of our small business leaders,” he said. “They are the very spirit behind our purpose to champion business and empower leaders.”
This year’s five winners are:
• Pro Kids, First Tee – Colina del Sol — Winner of the Community All-Star Award, which recognizes a small business that is dedicated to helping others and making a positive impact in the community.
• Intesa Communications Group, University City — Winner of the Customers First Award, which recognizes a small business that makes customer service its top priority and sets itself apart from the competition.
• Youth Empowerment, Talmadge — Winner of the Nonprofit Leader Award, which recognizes a nonprofit organization contributing to meaningful change and helping to make our region the best place to live and work.
• Valerio’s Bake Shop, National City — Winner of the Outstanding Diversity-Owned Business Award, which recognizes the success of a small business contributing to the growth and diversity of San Diego’s economy.
• Buckboard Catering & Events, El Cajon was honored with the Legacy Partner Award, which recognizes a long-standing chamber member small business that exemplifies outstanding engagement and partnership.
Businesses with 100 or fewer employees were eligible to be nominated. A panel of chamber members reviewed the nominations and selected four of the winners, while chamber leadership and staff chose the legacy partner award.
The San Diego chamber is the largest local chamber on the West Coast, serving some 2,000 members, 70% of which are small businesses.
