Business success is measured in many ways.
Arkansas Money & Politics asked its readers, once again, to tell us which were the most admired companies in The Natural State. Using a criteria that includes financial soundness, bold innovation, brand awareness, quality of product, outstanding people and social responsibility, they did just that in the 62 categories that follow.
We hold all businesses in high esteem, especially after the roller coaster ride of the last two years, and we tip our hat to those owners who managed to adapt, navigate and survive. But this particular year, readers told us who they admired most. And here they are. Enjoy the 2022 list of Arkansas’ Most Admired Companies.
Accounting Firm
EGP
EGP PLLC, opened its doors in 1981 in North Little Rock, and has since grown to open additional offices in Little Rock, Heber Springs and Bryant. The firm’s growth is due in part to its ability to attract highly talented associates. Bruce Engstrom, founding partner, along with the firm’s Executive Partner Committee, credits this growth to the firm’s philosophy: “We work with people, not just numbers.” This philosophy derives from a belief that the commitment to clients and to associates of EGP is a top priority. EGP provides services in accounting, audit and assurance, business consulting, estate planning, litigation support, personal advising, taxation and wealth management. It serves the agriculture, banking, construction, financial planning, health care, manufacturing and nonprofit industries.
Advertising Firm
GWL
Over the past 29 years, GWL Advertising has acquired a diverse group of individuals to help take the agency to the top. GWL describes itself as “creative masterminds with a true passion for innovation and strategy.” From branding and logo design to full-service digital marketing, television, radio, media buying, video production, social media and more, GWL Advertising will take a brand to the next level. Since 1993, GWL has served as a creative powerhouse in the Central Arkansas advertising industry. It prides itself on never sticking to the status quo and constantly pushing industry boundaries, which alone gives them a huge advantage, while simultaneously setting its work apart from the competition.
Agricultural Business
Greenway Equipment
Greenway Equipment Inc. is a recognized John Deere equipment dealer with locations in 32 communities throughout Arkansas and Missouri. Since 1988, Greenway Equipment has provided customers with innovative product and service offerings, expert advice and a passion for exceptional customer service. Today, Greenway Equipment is still committed to being a trusted equipment supplier and makes it the company’s mission to support local operations, no matter the need.
Architectural Firm
Polk Stanley Wilcox
Polk Stanley Wilcox is a full-service programming, architectural, planning and interior design firm with offices in Little Rock and Fayetteville. The firm has extensive experience in corporate/commercial, health care, educational, master planning and renovation/adaptive reuse projects. Polk Stanley Wilcox seeks appropriate solutions focused on quality and value for each project and is committed to client service and follow-through. The firm’s staff includes licensed architects, registered interior designers, construction administrators, specification writers and administrative support personnel. The firm is devoted to an uncompromised commitment to both quality design and excellent value and shattering the preconception that these concepts are mutually exclusive.
Auction Company
Blackmon Auctions
Blackmon Auctions, based in Little Rock, is a third-generation family business founded in 1938. Led by Thomas Blackmon, who took over from his father, Tom Blackmon Sr., the firm conducts auctions of all sizes throughout the United States. In the past 24 months, it has conducted more than 150 auctions in more than 25 states — as close to home as its own auction complex in Little Rock and as far away as Wyoming, Florida, New York, California, Ohio, Louisiana, Kansas, Texas, Tennessee, Missouri, Alabama, Mississippi, Georgia and Oklahoma. Although Blackmon Auctions has grown into one of the largest equipment auction companies in the country, it still specializes in one-owner, on-site auctions, regardless of size.
Automobile Dealership
Evolve Auto
Evolve Auto, located in North Little Rock, is the first exclusive electric-vehicle (EV) dealership in the South. Evolve has two goals: increase the availability of EVs to the public and educate people about the benefits of switching from fuel-powered vehicles. EVs produce zero emissions and contribute significantly fewer greenhouse gasses and air pollutants compared to gasoline engines. Evolve Auto is looking toward a greener future with electric vehicles. The team at Evolve Auto wants to make the transition to plug-in vehicles smooth and easy with a relaxed, no-pressure buying experience for customers through transparency, competitive prices in the EV market and personable relationships.
Bank
Southern Bancorp
Southern Bancorp is a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) with 51 locations across Arkansas and Mississippi. Founded in 1986 by some of the nation’s leading political, business and philanthropic leaders, Southern Bancorp has grown into a $2 billion asset organization with a unique array of financial products and services designed to help individuals at all stages of life’s financial journey. Headquartered in Arkadelphia, Southern Bancorp combines traditional banking and lending services with financial development tools, as well as public policy advocacy to help families and communities grow stronger. Southern Bancorp’s approach to creating economic opportunity in the most persistently impoverished areas is rooted in the belief that net worth drives economic opportunity, and its strategic framework provides individuals an opportunity to build net worth through homeownership, entrepreneurship and savings.
Black/Minority-Owned Business
The Design Group
The Design Group is more than a mere creative boutique. It is a full-service, multicultural communications company that provides market expertise to clients who want to reach Black, Hispanic, urban and youth consumer audiences. The company is focused on results. The Design Group is the collective effort of some of the Mid-South’s most progressive veteran segmentation specialists, who are aggressively developing innovative communications that speak to the new “diversity-rich” marketplace. From brand strategy and public relations to creative development, advertising and grassroots outreach, they build campaigns that change behavior. At The Design Group, these professionals are committed to marketing communications that are authentic, culturally relevant as well as intellectually and emotionally engaging. They ask every prospective client…is your brand culturally connected?
Boutique Hotel
Aloft Rogers-Bentonville
Aloft Rogers-Bentonville, part of Marriott Bonvoy’s portfolio of 30 brands, is a loft-inspired, pet-friendly boutique hotel. Filled with vibrant decor, collaborative workspaces and plush bedding, the 130-room hotel follows a “different by design” philosophy that creates a bold environment. Located off Interstate 49 near the Pinnacle Hills Country Club, Aloft Bentonville-Rogers is minutes away from Boar’s Nest, Monte Ne Inn, The Rail, Hobbs State Park, The Walmart AMP, Crystal Bridges and The Walmart Museum. The hotel is complete with a 24/7 grab-and-go, Re:fuel market, the W XYZ bar and cooked-to-order breakfast. With 595-square-foot meeting facilities, Aloft Rogers-Bentonville is an award-winning hotel, most recently named a “2021 Health Safety Hotel.”
Building Contractor
C.R. Crawford Construction
C.R. Crawford Construction, headquartered in Fayetteville, has grown to be the state’s largest commercial construction company and established itself as a distinct leader in the industry. The company serves clients not only in Arkansas but across the United States, and offers expertise in project planning, construction management, general contracting and design-build. Founded in 2006, C.R. Crawford is known for its pre-construction services and ability to successfully execute an aggressive project schedule. The company has experience in myriad industries from banking and finance, K-12 and higher education, to office, retail and more. However, with specialized experience in health care, industrial and multifamily — the industries that are driving construction activity in Northwest Arkansas and across the state — C.R. Crawford has played a significant role in transforming the area’s landscape.
Chamber of Commerce
Conway Area Chamber of Commerce
The Conway Area Chamber of Commerce has been the voice of business in Conway for more than 130 years. Economic development, government affairs, education and community vision are the foundation of its success and the core of its mission. With more than 1,600 members, the Chamber offers businesses an unmatched opportunity to engage with Arkansas’ best economy. The Chamber is the voice of economic growth in Faulkner County, facilitating a constant conversation with its members, the public and those seeking to do business in the area.
College, Four-Year
University of Central Arkansas
Academic excellence, a vibrant campus, Division I athletics and an energetic college town all help prepare University of Central Arkansas students for success. Students may choose from more than 160 degree and certificate options, including undergraduate, graduate and doctoral programs offered in person and online. The university’s innovative academics feature hands-on opportunities and professors who invest in their students. The UCA campus provides an active community of more than 200 clubs, service organizations and opportunities for students. These include learning, leadership, community building, creative expression, volunteerism, mentoring and more. UCA’s broad and diverse network of local, regional, national and international community partners offers a variety of volunteer opportunities for students.
College, Two-Year
University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton
The University of Arkansas Community College at Morrilton is a two-year college within the University of Arkansas System that offers a comprehensive curriculum of university-transfer and career-specific training programs, as well as adult education, concurrent education and training, as well as non-credit workforce training programs. The college has served west-central Arkansas since 1963 and has an enrollment of approximately 2,000 credit students per semester. UACCM’s skilled training programs offer certificate of proficiency, technical certificate and associate degree options to accommodate students with a variety of career goals. The Associate of Arts and Associate of Science degree programs allow students to complete the first two years of a bachelor’s degree before transferring to a four-year university.
Construction Company
Hydco Construction
Hydco is an Arkansas company that started in the corner of the home of Barry Hyde in 1987. Hyde’s idea was to create a stable company that was relationship driven, included the highest quality work, and incorporated the latest technology into the business plan. While Hydco has grown and developed its capabilities over the years, the company has worked to adhere to this defining set of values. Hydco consistently monitors construction trends as well as marketing trends for all types of business and industry. The company has taken great pride in offering its clients a solid history of quality performance, turn-key service and customer satisfaction. Hydco’s mission is to provide the highest level of quality in every construction project that it undertakes, in both those areas that are easily seen and those that cannot be seen. Hydco prides itself on displaying a level of professionalism and efficiency unequaled in the marketplace.
Convention and Visitors Bureau
Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau
The Little Rock Convention & Visitors Bureau (LRCVB) serves as the official destination marketing organization for Little Rock. The LRCVB is responsible for promoting the city as a destination to leisure travelers and as a group meeting destination across the United States and worldwide. Aside from its offices in downtown Little Rock’s Cromwell building, the LRCVB manages Robinson Center, the Statehouse Convention Center, the First Security Amphitheater, Ottenheimer River Market Hall and multiple downtown parking facilities. Using the iconic “Big on Little Rock” tagline, the LRCVB’s advertising efforts bring millions of visitors to the capital city each year and inspire travelers to discover the pleasant surprise of Little Rock. LRCVB is primarily funded by a hotel, motel, and restaurant tax. Though 2021 began on the heels of the greatest disruption to the travel industry in decades, the advent of vaccines allowed for a resurgence of leisure and business travel. Little Rock advertising & promotion (A&P) tax collections rose to $14.8 million, a 23 percent increase over 2020.
Cosmetic Surgery Practice
Dr. Suzanne Yee
Dr. Suzanne Yee’s practice, Cosmetic & Laser Surgery Center, is one of Little Rock’s leading cosmetic surgeons. With passion and artistic sensibilities, Yee has been leading the industry of cosmetic surgery for more than 20 years as a triple-board certified cosmetic surgeon. With years of extensive study in medicine and continued education, Yee founded her practice on the principles of artistry and innovation, offering full-body surgical and nonsurgical procedures. Yee performs treatments ranging from advanced laser therapy to comprehensive “mommy makeovers,” priding herself and her practice on the ability to help patients feel comfortable in their decision to undergo any procedure. Yee offers a variety of options such as Botox, dermal fillers and laser treatments as well as nonsurgical options for weight loss and clear skin. As the first surgeon in Arkansas to offer QWO Cellulite treatment, BTL Emsella and NeoGraft, Yee has long been an innovative force in Little Rock’s cosmetic surgery community.
Credit Union
Arkansas Federal Credit Union
Arkansas Federal Credit Union has been making a difference in the lives of employees, members and the communities it serves since 1956. With more than $1.5 billion in total assets and more than 300 employees, Arkansas Federal is the largest credit union in Arkansas. As a not-for-profit financial institution, Arkansas Federal invests profits back into benefits for members through higher dividends and lower loan rates. Both consumers and businesses entrust the credit union to get competitive rates and reduced fees on accounts and loans. Founded in Jacksonville but now based in Little Rock, Arkansas Federal has 18 branches throughout Arkansas that serve more than 120,000 members.
Disaster Restoration Company
Metro Disaster Specialists
Metro Disaster Specialists is a proven leader in all disaster situations, with a long history of professional approach and practical knowledge applied as an essential source for both property owners and insurance professionals. Based in North Little Rock, Metro Disaster Specialists is a licensed disaster general contractor providing 24-hour emergency service response to their clients. Metro specializes in providing rapid and reliable services, handling virtually any circumstance to secure clients’ property and contents against further damage. Metro has a proven portfolio of more than 20,000 completed projects and 275 years of combined restoration and reconstruction experience. Metro continues to constantly invest in its team by striving to uphold the industry’s top certifications and training. With two certified restorers on staff, Metro is qualified to handle a loss of any size. As a proud member of the Restoration Industry Association, Metro is an advocate for best industry practices.
Distribution Company
Myers Supply
As a family-owned distributor of quality cleaning products, Myers Supply appreciates the challenges its customers face on a daily basis. The company is constantly adding innovative product systems supported by a professional sales team and outstanding training materials to ensure customers’ success. The experienced chemical and technical staff at Myers Supply is always finding new ways to make cleaning and sanitation easier and safer. With vast resources and facilities in Hot Springs and Little Rock, Myers Supply is in a position to supply Central Arkansas with the finest facility products at competitive prices. Since 1955, the success of Myers Supply has been the direct result of its philosophy of developing and nurturing long-term business partnerships.
Electrical Contractor
Gary Houston Electric Co.
For more than 35 years, Gary Houston Electric Co. has served Central Arkansas with affordable, quality and timely commercial and residential electrical contracting services with a strong emphasis on customer service. Constantly looking for opportunities to serve new customers, its areas of expertise include homes, retail spaces, restaurants, offices and warehouses among others. The company services both new construction and existing structures needing electrical repair or being remodeled. The majority of its work comes from repeat customers, whose relationships the company strives to build and maintain. In addition to commercial and residential electrical services, Gary Houston offers facility maintenance and emergency electrical services.
Employment Staffing Agency
Premier Staffing
Premier Staffing, a BelFlex company, recruits, places and manages workers for clerical and professional positions including call center, data entry, human resources and accounting in a range of industries. It also provides commercial staffing workforce solutions in the light industrial sector. Through its offices in Little Rock and Conway, Premier delivers deep industry knowledge, recruiting expertise, commitment to compliance and a partnering approach to improving productivity. It also has access to BelFlex’s network of resources and experts from the company’s 29 branches throughout the Midwest and Southeast. With its professional team and thorough procedures, Premier maintains a reputation as an honest, reliable and professional business partner. The company is driven by a passion for creating success for its employees, clients and communities — what it calls “succeeding together.”
Engineering Firm
Crafton Tull
Crafton Tull is a civil engineering, surveying, architecture, landscape architecture and planning firm with more than 300 employees working across Arkansas and Oklahoma. Crafton Tull’s dedication to client service began in 1963, with founding partners Bob Crafton and Lem Tull. After eight years with the Arkansas Highway and Transportation Department, Crafton and Tull set out to build their own firm. As a direct result of the firm’s commitment to its clients, Crafton Tull quickly experienced growth, adding new office locations and expanding its service offerings. Jim Tull joined the company his father, Lem, co-founded in 1993 and eventually rose to the position of CFO. In 1998, Bob’s son, Matt Crafton, transitioned from his civil engineering role in the U.S. Air Force to the Air Force Reserve and joined Crafton Tull. Matt eventually rose to the position of COO before the Crafton Tull board of directors appointed him to the position of CEO in 2009. For more than 50 years, Crafton Tull has sought to improve communities through design, planning and surveying. That mission is carried out through the firm’s work still today across a wide variety of project types and services.
Environmental Consulting Firm
ECCI
ECCI is a Little Rock-based engineering and environmental consulting firm with 21 in-house professional engineers and experienced environmental scientists. Founded in 1993, ECCI has followed a path of controlled growth, adding skilled and experienced mechanical, chemical, civil and environmental engineers and scientists as the professional reputation of the firm has grown. ECCI’s success relies upon the breadth of knowledge of their employees in very specialized areas of both the environmental and engineering fields, in order to best serve The Natural State. ECCI employees are devoted to being the best advocate and resource for clients in any situation. For these reasons, ECCI also is a strong proponent of continuing education, so that staff remains at the forefront of ever-changing rules, regulations and new technology.
Financial Planner
Conway Wealth Management
Committed to maintaining the highest standards of integrity and professionalism with clients, Conway Wealth Management endeavors to know and understand its customers, financial situation, providing them with the highest quality of information, services and products to help pursue their goals. With knowledge surrounding the complex financial world, Conway Wealth Management understands that individuals face unique challenges when it comes to making financial decisions. To help clients take the mystery out of preparing for today and tomorrow, Conway Wealth Management works to help clients with all aspects of their financial life that may include investing for retirement, college savings or doing some estate planning. Conway Wealth Management has personalized service to focus on its client’s wants, needs and financial goals and objectives. In providing comprehensive financial planning, Conway Wealth Management helps people make informed financial decisions with the aim of providing the best outcome possible. Securities and Financial Planning offered through LPL Financial, a registered investment advisor. Member FINRA/SIPC.
Fintech Firm
Smiley Technologies
Based in Little Rock, Smiley Technologies Inc. is a core and digital provider for community banks. The firm was founded in 2002 to serve a need for better software and superior service. Smiley’s mission is to be a trusted provider of security, innovative banking solutions and exceptional customer service to its valued partner banks. Smiley’s core banking platform is a vertically integrated solution, allowing bankers better access to information, more simple business processes and a more secure product. With high-touch customer service and continuous innovation, the Smiley team understands core banking and how to provide value to community banks.
Florist
Tipton & Hurst
Since 1886, Tipton & Hurst has been committed to fulfilling its promise of “guaranteed satisfaction” with every flower, plant, event and gift it delivers. Consistently voted Arkansas’ Best Florist, this family-owned and -operated business has blossomed from a floral shop in downtown Little Rock to a full-scale, specialty retailer with four Central Arkansas locations.
Health Care System
Unity Health
The Unity Health System is the Searcy area’s largest employer with more than 2,300 associates. Its facilities offer a combined total of 571 licensed beds and a medical staff of more than 160 physicians who specialize in various areas of healthcare. Unity Health facilities include White County Medical Center in Searcy, Unity Health-Newport, Unity Health Specialty Care in Searcy, and coming later this year, Unity Health-Jacksonville. Unity Health associates and partners strive to create a healthy community by creating a healing environment that enables people to reach the highest potential for health care.
Health Insurance Provider
Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield
As Arkansas’ oldest and largest health insurer, Arkansas Blue Cross and Blue Shield has been helping improve the health, financial security and peace of mind of the people of Arkansas for more than 70 years. The company and its family of affiliates are leaders in health insurance innovation and provide a full spectrum of health and dental coverage plans for individuals and groups. Arkansas Blue Cross employs more than 3,200 people in about a dozen locations throughout Arkansas. The company serves nearly 800,000 people in Arkansas and another 1.2 million through national accounts. As a private, not-for-profit, mutual health insurance company, the company stands apart because its policyholders own the company entirely. Its commitment to the health of Arkansas and its people is unmatched.
Hospital
Conway Regional Medical Center
Conway Regional Health System demonstrates the value that it places on the community by empowering a medical staff of more than 200 physicians and an employee staff of 1,500 in crucial decision-making that impacts patients every day. These crucial stakeholders are energized through an accountable clinical management model for physicians and a patient care governing congress for the staff. As a result, Conway Regional’s patient experience, employee and physician engagement scores in the Press Ganey survey soared into the 95th percentile in 2020. Conway Regional has been recognized nationally, statewide and locally throughout Cleburne, Conway, Faulkner, Perry, Pope, Van Buren and Yell counties as a “Best Place to Work.”
HVAC Company
Powers of Arkansas
Powers is the premier commercial building HVAC, controls and service company in Arkansas, offering a full range of heating, ventilation and air conditioning technologies and services to manage all of its customers’ HVAC needs. Representing Siemens Building Technologies, Powers specializes in building automation and control systems. This specialty allows customers to manage energy costs while maintaining the right comfort level. Powers works with building owners, facility managers, engineers, contractors and architects, providing design assistance on equipment, installation of controls and service on the whole HVAC system of the building or campus. Powers’ expertise is delivered to health care, education, government, commercial buildings, laboratories and industry. Headquartered in North Little Rock, Powers covers all of Arkansas. Additionally, it has offices in Oklahoma, Mississippi and Louisiana.
Insurance Agency, Health
Southeast Insurance
Kristi Stocker has been the owner of Southeast Insurance in Crossett for more than 25 years. Her team includes Pam Culp, who has been with her for 18 years; Denise Hudson, 13 years; Norma Bailey, five years; and Whitney Gill, three years. The company is contracted with some of the largest insurance companies in the industry and prides itself on representing companies with A ratings or better. Southeast Insurance’s motto is “Providing Extraordinary Service and Solutions to Extraordinary Clients.” And it is more than a motto; it is something the firm believes in. In the over-65 market, Southeast Insurance specializes in Medicare supplements and drug plans. In the under-65 market, it specializes in individual health plans on and off the exchange. In addition to health, it offers life, dental, vision, cancer and accident coverage.
Insurance Agency,
Property and Casualty
Jay Van Dover,
Shelter Insurance
Jay Van Dover is a licensed agent with Shelter Insurance; his office is located in the Riverdale section of Little Rock. Van Dover is one of the top Shelter agents in the state and is licensed in Arkansas, Colorado, Illinois, Mississippi, Missouri, Oklahoma and Tennessee. His product offerings include auto, home, life, renters, personal articles, business, ATV, boat, motorcycle, RV and farm.
IT Consulting Firm
Network Services Group
Network Services Group provides IT support to thousands of customers in Arkansas. Starting in 1989 in North Little Rock, the company has delivered quality products and outstanding customer service. NSG founded Network Data Services, a managed service provider, administering support for banks, medical firms, car dealerships, lawyers, manufacturers, staffing agencies and service companies. Services may include installing a new phone system or setting up a computer network, while fostering the company’s award-winning support. The firm remains based in North Little Rock, but now has a second location in Fayetteville. As it grows, NSG strives to “continue to focus on delivering incredible outcomes for you and your business.”
Janitorial Services Company
Jan-Pro
Dave Hughes opened Jan-Pro of Arkansas in 2005, the same year his son, Nolen, was a senior in high school. Nolen worked in the business during its first few years, learning how to clean and eventually becoming a floor care technician, in addition to taking care of various customer needs. After graduating from the University of Central Arkansas, Nolen started his own venture with College Hunks Hauling Junk and Moving. He owned the business for nine years before eventually selling it in 2018. For customers tired of commercial cleaning vendors who are long on promises, but short on performance, Jan-Pro is the solution.
Law Firm
WLJ
With more than 120 years of experience from 80 attorneys, Wright Lindsey Jennings (WLJ) remains committed to community, innovation, diversity, collaboration and professionalism. More than half of firm attorneys have been named among The Best Lawyers in America©, with 16 being recognized as “Lawyer of the Year” in their respective practice areas. As one of the three largest law firms in Arkansas, WLJ has an established history of excellence in representing the businesses, organizations and industries that make up the fabric of the Arkansas and regional economies across a full range of litigation, corporate and transactional service areas. WLJ is rooted in tradition and focused on innovation, strategically developing knowledge in evolving industries to meet the demands of the business community. Recent developments include an ongoing focus on COVID-19’s impact on businesses; Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) partnerships; a public-facing women’s initiative, Woman-Run; WLJ Tech Law, focused on startups and small businesses; and medical cannabis in Arkansas.
Manufacturer
U.S. Steel
Steel production is heating up in Arkansas, and U.S. Steel has been at the forefront. In January 2022, Arkansas unveiled the biggest economic development deal by capital investment in the state’s history: U.S. Steel’s announcement of its $3 billion “steel mill of the future” in Osceola. This 6.3-million-ton mega mill will feature two electric arc furnaces with 3 million tons of annual steelmaking capability, along with a state-of-the-art endless casting and rolling line and finishing capabilities. U.S. Steel President and CEO David B. Burritt said Arkansas offered a prime location for its steel mill that will allow U.S. Steel to grow and meet the needs of its customers.
Mortgage Lender
IberiaBank Mortgage
Founded in 1887 in New Iberia, La., IberiaBank Mortgage continues serving Arkansans across the state. Powered by a trustworthy team, the mortgage lender delivers better technology, broadening lending capabilities and expanding financial networks. IberiaBank entered the Arkansas market in 2009, when it acquired Little Rock’s Pulaski Bank & Trust. With 322 locations, IberiaBank meets the financial services of customers in retail and commercial, along with business and private banking, with housing mortgage representatives in 85 locations across 12 states. IberiaBank Mortgage offers fixed-rate mortgages and adjustable-rate mortgages, including affordable housing loans and rural development. The mortgage company offers industry-leading competitive rates and continues to fit a variety of financial needs. As a local mortgage lender, it takes pride in the ability to approve and fund local loans.
Nonprofit Organization
Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation
Created in 1982 through the efforts of former Arkansas Game and Fish Commission director Steve N. Wilson, the Arkansas Game and Fish Foundation is a nonprofit organization for people passionate about promoting hunting, fishing and conservation education for Arkansas youth. The foundation is known as a leader in the state for supporting the acquisition of property for hunting and fishing opportunities, creating and supporting conservation education. As a partner with the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, providing creative opportunities to develop young Arkansans’ interests in fishing and hunting, informing and educating the public on a variety of issues important to the future of hunting, fishing and wildlife conservation as well as supporting other related programs.
Nursing Home
Presbyterian Village
Presbyterian Village is owned and operated by a nonprofit organization, Presbyterian Village Inc., and is sponsored by 11 Presbyterian churches in the greater Little Rock metropolitan area. Presbyterian Village has provided 50-plus years of housing and services to the community. Its mission is to provide comprehensive continuing care for older adults that promotes health, comfort, security and spiritual well-being in a living environment that fosters personal dignity and independence.
Office Design Company
Evo Business Environments
Evo Business Environments LLC helps design spaces for businesses, health-care organizations and institutions of higher education. Its passion is to help create beautiful looking spaces, but also spaces that impact the culture and efficacy of the groups that inhabit them. Ideally, Evo’s involvement impacts profitability, promotes better healing and fosters more effective learning. Specifically, Evo has teams that help with everything from furniture and decor to architectural products like solid and glass walls, millwork, raised-access flooring and acoustical treatments. Working alongside other design professionals, Evo provides design concepts, budgets, technical drawings, renderings and virtual reality tours, all while being onsite from the beginning stages of the design process until the final finish-out onsite.
Office Supply Company
Government Supply Services
Government Supply Services (GSS) is a facilities supplier serving the federal, state and private sector to meet diverse small-business goals since 2009. GSS provides a huge selection of more than 1 million products from trusted distributor-alliance partners. Product categories include industrial-grade maintenance, repair and operating supplies (MRO), safety products, janitorial and sanitation supplies, breakroom supplies, technology supplies, office supplies as well as first aid and health supplies. GSS is formally aligned with Grainger Inc. and Staples Inc., adding credibility to the products and services that customers want to buy. Gregory Modica, a service-disabled veteran founded Government Supply Services (GSS) in El Dorado with the vision to establish a company that would provide independent employment opportunities for people with disabilities or unique challenges. Modica also wanted to provide hands-on mentorship opportunities to young entrepreneurs by working with their college administrators and community outreach organizations.
Payroll Company
Complete Payroll Services
Complete Payroll of Little Rock began as Combined Financial Services, founded by Guy Dillahunty in 1992. When he retired in October of 2000, the company was purchased by Betty Jo King, who continued to grow the company with the same principles on which it was founded. Eventually, the company became Complete Payroll Services and moved forward by adding services such as online payroll, web-based time-keeping administration, biometric time clocks, pay cards and more. Staying on top of technological advancements in the industry, Complete Payroll is proud to offer the very best from HR services to 401(k) management.
Privately Owned Company
First Orion
First Orion Corp., one of the fastest-growing telecommunications companies in the country, provides industry-leading branded communication and communication-protection solutions to mobile carriers and businesses. The company is headquartered in North Little Rock and has offices in Seattle, London and Dubai. Its branded communication solutions, INFORM® and ENGAGE®, empower consumers to connect over a branded and verified call and are used by hundreds of companies worldwide. In addition, First Orion’s Communication Protection suite offers scam, fraud and spoof protection solutions to hundreds of millions of consumers and processes more than 100 billion calls annually for T-Mobile, Metro by T-Mobile and Boost Mobile Networks. First Orion is a multiyear certified Great Place to Work and maintains a 4.7-star Glassdoor rating. The company was also named one of the most distinguished companies by Arkansas Money & Politics and has received multiple national workplace awards.
Professional Association
Arkansas Trucking Association
The Arkansas Trucking Association promotes the health of the Arkansas trucking industry on issues that directly impact member companies and our state and national economies. Shannon Newton, who has been behind the wheel of the ATA since 2014, has worked hard to make sure the association works like a well-oiled machine. The ATA is owned and governed by more than 300 trucking companies and important industry suppliers. Members range from firms with five or fewer trucks to some of the nation’s largest freight and logistics companies. The ATA’s mission is to advance the trucking industry’s image, efficiency, competitiveness and profitability. ATA’s comprehensive range of services, products and member benefits are designed to help members compete and succeed. The association was started in 1932 as the Shippers and Carriers Association of Arkansas. Ninety years later, the Association is still around promoting and supporting the trucking industry and all the ways it has flourished in the state.
Professional Services Provider
Acxiom
Founded in Arkansas more than 50 years ago, Acxiom designs and delivers customer intelligence solutions for the world’s most successful and trusted brands. Acxiom’s solutions use marketing data and technology to help companies better understand their customers to deliver better experiences for people and growth for the brand. As the world’s leading provider of customer data management, identity management and ethical data use, Acxiom helps brands meet people’s unique needs respectfully and with relevance. Acxiom’s associates and their commitment to innovation, diversity, equity and inclusion have helped the company earn several workplace awards, including Great Place to Work, Fortune’s Best Workplaces in Technology, Fortune’s Best Workplaces for Women and People’s Companies That Care. Acxiom has been part of the Interpublic Group of companies since 2018.
Promotional/Marketing Company
Trivia Marketing
It’s said that it only takes nine exposures to move someone to action. For pennies per “look,” promotional products keep a business’ name and message in front of its target market. Little Rock’s Trivia Marketing is a one-stop shop, starting with personal marketing experts who will brainstorm with clients. Its onsite graphics department will create the perfect look for a business. Its in-house screen printing and embroidery production departments will make it happen. Trivia Marketing has the largest showroom of its kind in Arkansas and more than 30 years of experience.
Public Company
J.B. Hunt Transport
Services
A Fortune 500 transportation leader, J.B. Hunt Transport Services started in 1961 in Lowell as a people-first company founded on innovation, disruption and service – working daily on creating the most efficient transportation network in North America. With great customer service as a bedrock value of J.B. Hunt, the company prides itself on doing what it says it would. The logistics hub provides intermodal, truckload, final mile, fulfillment, LTL and outsourced fleet operations for its customers, including flatbed, temp-controlled, international, managed logistics expedited deliveries and more. J.B. Hunt works with technology to bring freight forward with online shipping booking, and Carrier 360, an online platform for customers to keep up with its loads. The company employs more than 24,000 workers, operates more than 12,000 trucks and more than 100,000 trailers and containers.
Public Relations Firm
SixtyOne Celsius
An award-winning, full-stack creative communications agency, SixtyOne Celsius proudly partners with businesses, nonprofit, and organizations that span a variety of industries including (but not limited to) education, economic development, banking, tourism, hospitality, health care and more. The agency also supplies photography and video services to a variety of clients, including Visit Hot Springs. Since 2016, SixtyOne Celsius has helped to secure $75 million in community improvement projects for the City of Hot Springs and Garland County through ballot initiative campaign consulting. From highway infrastructure projects that will improve transportation throughout the county to expanded museum facilities, plus a state-of-the-art baseball complex, the firm partnered with community leaders and local advocates on ballot issue campaigns that seek to improve the quality of life for both residents and visitors.
In 2022, SixtyOne Celsius became a certified Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprise through the Arkansas Economic Development Commission.
Public Utility, Electric
Entergy
Entergy Arkansas is a division of the Entergy Corporation, an integrated energy company engaged in electric power production, transmission and retail distribution operations. Entergy delivers electricity to 3 million utility customers in Arkansas, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas, in addition to owning and operating one of the cleanest large-scale U.S. power generating fleets as well as nuclear power options. Entergy has annual revenues of $10 billion and more than 13,000 employees. At Entergy, you’ll find a corporation that consistently strives to create sustainable value for customers, employees, communities and owners. That concentrated focus drives the way Entergy thinks as an organization, allowing the company to effectively navigate through numerous transitions, both revolutionary and evolutionary, and still deliver on its commitments to their stakeholders.
Public Utility, Gas
Summit Utilities
Summit Utilities Inc. is the new gas provider for the state of Arkansas. The Little Rock firm purchased assets from CenterPoint Energy in an April deal worth $2.1 billion. The acquisition covered customers in Arkansas, Oklahoma and Texarkana, Texas. Summit now serves 525,000 customers and operates 17,000 miles of gas main pipeline across three states. Its mission is to provide clean-burning, safe and reliable natural-gas service to residential and commercial customers as well as to support economic development through reliable energy solutions.
Public Utility, Water
Central Arkansas Water
Serving one in every six Arkansans, Central Arkansas Water and its more than 300 employees provide water service to almost 500,000 customers across eight counties. Direct service boundaries include the communities of Little Rock, North Little Rock, Alexander, Brushy Island Public Water Authority, Cammack Village, College Station, Maumelle, Paron, Sherwood, Wrightsville, 145th Street Water and Sewer Improvement District and unincorporated Pulaski County. Central Arkansas Water also provides treated water supply for the cities of Shannon Hills and Bryant in Saline Country as well as Ridgefield Estates Public Facilities Board, and provides supplemental supply to Cabot, Salem, Sardis, North Pulaski Water Works Association, Woodland Hills and Jacksonville, whose service area includes the Little Rock Air Force Base. CAW was recently named a Leading Utility of the World, which is the gold standard for utility performance. CAW has also been recognized as top five best drinking water in North America by the American Water Works Association.
Real Estate, Commercial
Hathaway Group
The Hathaway Group story begins in 1976 with the founding of Hathaway-Moore & Associates on two desks and a card table at 312 W. Capitol Avenue in downtown Little Rock. The business was built on integrity and innovation, characteristics that continue to define the team, and it developed strong ties throughout Arkansas. The firm is blessed to have the wisdom and counsel of founder Jim Hathaway, even now. Today, Hathaway Group remains an independent commercial real estate company serving property owners, businesses and investment groups.
Real Estate, Land Broker
Mossy Oak Properties-Delta Land Management Co.
The professionals at Mossy Oak Properties-Delta Land Management Co. have been the leading real estate brokers of farmland, hunting properties and natural places since 2005. A family owned and operated business, Mossy Oak Properties-Delta Land Management Company has agents throughout Arkansas who are ready to help you buy or sell, whether it’s a duck/deer hunting property in the Delta, farmland or timberland in the Ozarks. The company’s agents are trained in all aspects of rural real estate and have the equipment and expertise to effectively help you buy or sell. Mossy Oak Properties-Delta Land Management also has a full management team that includes wildlife and farm managers who can help take property to the next level. As landowners, hunters and real estate professionals themselves, the folks at Mossy Oak Properties-Delta Land Management understand their clients’ goals.
Real Estate, Residential
The Janet Jones Company
Over the years, The Janet Jones Company has consistently ranked as the top real estate agency in Central Arkansas, both in the dollar volume of homes sold and residential market share. Janet Jones, who founded the company in 1980, continues at the helm, and her original guiding philosophy has never changed: The Golden Rule. The company remains locally and family-owned, and proudly independent. With 37 agents and a support staff of 11, The Janet Jones Company thrives in its family-like environment. Culture is its strongest asset, where team members support each other’s efforts, share ideas openly and collaborate to provide clients with their signature “legendary service” across Central Arkansas. Well-trained and experienced agents at The Janet Jones Company are renowned as the best of the best and consistently rank among the top producers in Arkansas.
Restaurant
Doe’s Eat Place Little Rock
Before Doe’s Eat Place became a Little Rock landmark, the name and menu dwelled in Greenville, Mississippi. George Eldridge, east Arkansas restaurateur and hobby pilot, periodically flew friends and clients to Doe’s Eat Place in Greenville for the legendary food, but he soon decided it would be easier to bring Doe’s to Arkansas. After acquiring the rights to the name and menu, Eldridge opened Little Rock’s location of the humble steakhouse on the corner of Ringo and West Markham in 1988. After years of local success, the Little Rock Doe’s Eat Place gained national recognition during the 1992 presidential election campaign when Bill Clinton and staff made the restaurant a frequent hangout spot. Doe’s has since been a regular stop for athletes, race car drivers, entertainers and other professionals. Under the ownership of Eldridge’s daughter, Katherine Eldridge, Doe’s Eat Place has maintained that original Doe’s spirit.
Solar Company
Entegrity Energy Partners
Founded in 2007, Entegrity started as a consulting firm, focusing on building sustainability, building performance and energy efficiency. By the early 2010’s, several key technologies started to advance, giving Entegrity the opportunity to combine existing energy-engineering expertise with construction and implementation experience to assist clients with turn-key energy projects. Entegrity joined forces with Nabholz, a construction and facility maintenance company with more than 70 years of experience, bringing a new business model to market with wide-ranging expertise in sustainability, building performance and energy efficiency. Uniquely qualified in delivering innovative and sustainable solutions to optimize building performance, Entegrity helps clients realize long-term operational savings by focusing on all of their needs – selecting the most cost-effective scope, contract structure, financing strategy and tying it all together with a performance-based guarantee.
Startup
Horizon Health Solutions
Horizon Health Solutions is a pharmacy enterprise software startup located in Little Rock. The startup provides software and database tools to help its customers, independent pharmacy owners and decision makers improve their profit margins. PriceView, the first product Horizon Health Solutions is bringing to market, made one pharmacy an additional $800,000 in reimbursement revenue in 2021. In recognizing the immense financial pressure that pharmacy owners face, Horizon Health Solutions doesn’t charge an upfront cost in using its software – meaning the company doesn’t make money until their clients do. With a mission to protect patient access to care through their local pharmacies, Horizon Health Solutions is focused on helping independent pharmacies maximize their margins through software solutions.
Title Company
First National Title
First National Title Company is an independent, locally owned-and-operated company serving Arkansas. First National Title has put together a complete team of experts in the title industry. Its services are professional, efficient and customized to client’s needs. First National Title was formed in June of 1997 and has since grown from two to roughly 250 employees in 26 locations across the state. The company’s experienced team of closers and title examiners close real estate transactions promptly, professionally and accurately. First National Title closes both residential and commercial real-estate transactions as well as loan refinancing transactions.
Trucking Company
CalArk
CalArk is a family-owned company, just the right size to be directly involved in meeting customer needs and exceeding expectations. The Little Rock-based company offers third-party logistics, including equipment leasing, less-than-truckload shipping, last-mile distribution, dry van trucking, warehousing, cross-border business and brokerage. Tom Bartholomew began CalArk in 1975 with just three trucks and the belief that growth and success would happen through honesty, integrity and a never-ending commitment to customer satisfaction. Today, the company works with hundreds of CalArk company drivers and independent owner-operators (under the business name Central Hauling) to keep the wheels of American business turning.
Trust Department
Simmons Wealth Management
For generations, the knowledgeable team at Simmons Bank Wealth Management has been a premier provider of trust, investment management and fiduciary services. Generation after generation, Simmons Bank has been trusted for what matters. Its wealth professionals have deep industry experience and are ready to provide the personalized solutions to help you build and manage your wealth, provide for your family and protect your legacy.
Wealth Management Firm
Legacy Capital
The team at Legacy Capital in Little Rock strives to gain an in-depth understanding of all facets of clients’ financial, tax and planning life – including estate plans, corporate and entity structure (if relevant), income tax considerations as well as investment and insurance portfolios. The in-house team at Legacy Capital includes a variety of professionals with different areas of expertise – attorneys, CFPs, an LLM in tax and an FALU, as well as investment professionals and insurance experts. Instead of one person trying to meet every need, the professionals at Legacy Capital function as a team, which ensures that each member serves in their area of highest competence. Having a team mentality, the firm also values clients’ other trusted professionals, including accountants, lawyers, trust officers and other family members. Everyone typically sees things from a different perspective, and working together as a team delivers better results for clients.
Woman-Owned Company
Turn Key Construction Management
Sandy Dixon founded Turn Key Construction Management Inc. in 2007 as a woman-owned construction company. Today, Turn Key continues to offer construction services to clients in Arkansas and surrounding states. With offices in Fort Smith and Bentonville, Turn Key strives to engage its clients throughout the entire construction process. Turn Key offers both general contractor and construction management services for a variety of building types and clients. However, most of its work has been with public clients such as cities, states and other government entities. Over the years, the scale and complexity of Turn Key’s projects have grown from a few hundred square feet and a few thousand dollars in construction costs to projects such as the Arkansas State Police Headquarters, 46,000-SF and $14 million.
