This year’s Small Business Week kicked off with a bang, as the Small Business Bash at Boot Barn Hall announced the winners of the Small Business Week Awards. Among them are Von Kessel & Partners of iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Colorado Springs, who were named Veteran Small Business Owner of the Year. The indoor diving venue was founded by three retired Air Force Academy colonels and opened just this past March.
Behr and Behr of Platinum Group Realtors were also recognized, earning Family-Owned Small Business of the Year honors. The team includes founder and owner Ed Behr, along with brokers Renee, Brandon, Leah, and Erik Behr. Additionally, Jackie Lujan was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year for her work as founder and CEO of The Lighthouse Early Care and Education, a learning-focused daycare.
Zachary Barker, a certified economic developer and founder of Startup Support Center, was named Small Business Champion of the Year for his work in entrepreneurship growth consulting and community development. Lastly, Sevan Stryker, general manager of Bob Penkhus Motor Co., was named Small Business Person of the Year.
The celebration continues through Friday with virtual workshops, a marketing panel, and more activities. This year’s theme is “The Year of A.I (Action & Innovation).” For more information about these events or how to get involved in small business week visit pikespeaksbdc.org.