Six companies and government agencies were recently recognized for their contributions in promoting Arkansas’ minority and women-owned businesses. During a Small, Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise event, Arkansas Economic Development Commission officials honored the six winners.
The categories included State Agency of the Year, University of the Year, Access to Capital Award, Certified Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Firm of the Year,Certified Woman-Owned Business of the Yearand Certified Minority Firm of the Year.
The winners of the six categories are:
- State Agency of the Year – Arkansas Department of Parks and Tourism
- University of the Year – University of Arkansas Pine Bluff
- Access to Capital Award – Southern Bancorp
- Certified Service Disabled Veteran-Owned Firm of the Year – Integrity Office Solutions Inc.
- Certified Woman-Owned Business of the Year – Cornerstone Construction
- Certified Minority Firm of the Year – Goddess Products
To receive the State Agency of the Year award, the agency must demonstrate a commitment to advancing minority and/or women-owned businesses in Arkansas by spending at least 15 percent of the agency’s discretionary budget with these businesses. The University of the Year award has the same requirement.
The Access to Capital award is designed to recognize organizations that provide traditional or alternative capital to minority firms.
The final three awards are designated for firms that exceed industry standards in business growth and success, while also demonstrating social responsibility.
READ MORE: Minority, Women-Owned Business Enterprise Helps Grow New, Existing Companies