Honoring Resilience and Innovation: Michigan Celebrates Small Business Awards Gala Recognizes Exceptional Entrepreneurs

The 20th annual Michigan Celebrates Small Business Awards gala was held at the Breslin Center at Michigan State University, where several Mid-Michigan businesses were honored for their economic growth in the state. Despite the glitz of the event, organizers emphasized the importance of recognizing the resilience and innovation that entrepreneurs bring to Michigan.

Jennifer Deamud, chair of MSCB, highlighted the significance of acknowledging small businesses and entrepreneurs in a state that values entrepreneurship. Blue Owl Coffee of Lansing and Iaso Therapeutics, Inc. of East Lansing were among the businesses awarded as the Michigan SBDC Best Small Businesses and SmartZone Best Small Businesses, respectively.

The highlight of the evening was the announcement of the 2024 Michigan 50 Companies to Watch, which included businesses that generated a total revenue of over $414 million last year and are expected to grow this year. Among these winners were Custom Built Design and Remodeling of Okemos, Fahey Schultz Burzych Rhods PLC of Okemos, LorAnn Oils Inc. of Lansing, Michigan Creative of Lansing, and Elderly Instruments of Lansing.

Lillian Werbin, CEO of Elderly Instruments, expressed her gratitude for being recognized among exceptional businesses that prioritize their company’s well-being and their employees’ satisfaction. Werbin shared how she began working part-time in the warehouse before eventually earning her staff’s trust and leading Elderly Instruments to success. The event also introduced a new award category for women-owned small businesses, which went to Stacy Paul from Grand Rapids-based Array of Engineers.

In conclusion, the Michigan Celebrates Small Business Awards gala highlighted