The annual Small Business Week kicked off with the announcement of the winners of the Small Business Week Awards at a virtual event. This year’s awards recognized outstanding small businesses and entrepreneurs in various categories, including Young Entrepreneur of the Year, Family-Owned Small Business of the Year, and Veteran Small Business Owner of the Year.
The Veteran Small Business Owner of the Year is Von Kessel & Partners, located in Colorado Springs at iFLY Indoor Skydiving. Founded by three retired Air Force Academy colonels – Omar Bradley, Joel Maynard, and Korky von Kessel – this indoor diving venue opened in March 2022 and is situated in Polaris Pointe retail center on Colorado Springs’ north side.
The Family-Owned Small Business of the Year is Behr & Behr Realtors, led by owner Ed Behr and his brokers Renee, Brandon, Leah, and Erik. The team has been providing exceptional service to their clients since its founding in 1976.
Jackie Lujan was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year for her innovative daycare center called The Lighthouse Early Care and Education. This learning-focused day care provides children with high-quality care and education that helps them grow into well-rounded individuals.
Zachary Barker was named Small Business Champion of the Year for his work in building entrepreneurship ecosystems through his Startup Support Center. He has played an essential role in creating an environment that supports new businesses as they grow and succeed.
Several other awards were given out during this virtual event, highlighting the achievements of small business owners across various industries. Sevan Stryker from Bob Penkhus Motor Co., was named Small Business Person of the Year for his outstanding contributions to his community through both his business ventures and volunteer work.
