Return to Press Releases2024 Big Thank You Awards & MixerFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASEContact: Katherine Dunphy, 602-306-4000, kdunphy@asba.com Honoring Excellence: Arizona Small Business Association Announces Award Recipients for 2024 BIG Thank You Awards & Mixer Event Phoenix, AZ – The Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) is proud to celebrate Arizona's vibrant small business community at its annual BIG Thank You Awards & Mixer, an evening dedicated to honoring the entrepreneurs and leaders who drive Arizona's economy and community. This year's BIG Thank You Awards & Mixer will feature the presentation of several awards to recognize outstanding contributions to the state's small business landscape. From small business owners and business mentors to economic development agencies and government leaders, ASBA will pay tribute to individuals and organizations fostering a thriving business environment for all. The 2024 award recipients include: • The Small Business Legacy Award: awarded to two ASBA members, Jonathon Strom, owner of Valley Bevelling Corporation and ASBA's longest-standing member since 1982 and Connie Thompson Morrell, president of E&M Rigging Inc, in operation for over 30 years and dedicated to giving back to their community by supporting local organizations. • The Legislative Advocacy Award: honoring Arizona State Representative Matt Gress and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego for their exceptional leadership and commitment to enacting policies that support and empower Arizona small businesses. • The Small Business Changemaker Award: celebrating an Arizona small business that goes above and beyond in giving back to their community to create lasting positive change, awarded to the future first-place winner of ASBA's Leaving Your Mark competition, to be announced at the BIG Thank You. • The Rural Community Impact Award: presented to Mayor Mila Besich of Superior, Arizona, for her tireless efforts in fostering economic growth, tourism, and community development in Arizona's rural regions, helping to revitalize communities across the state. • The Economic Development Champion Award: recognizing the City of Suprise for its innovative strategies, resource allocation, and partnerships that contribute to an environment where entrepreneurs and small business owners can flourish. • The Business Mentorship Excellence Award: awarded to Mark Mertel and David Pender, exemplary mentors in ASBA's Growing Opportunities (GO) Program, for their exceptional dedication to providing personalized guidance and support to aspiring entrepreneurs. • The Arizona Business Ally Award: presented to the Arizona Commerce Authority for its commitment to fostering innovation and creating opportunities for Arizona businesses to grow, create jobs, and contribute to the state's economic vitality. • The Outstanding Partnership Award: honoring Salt River Project (SRP), Arizona Public Service (APS), and Southwest Airlines for their partnership and collaboration with ASBA, which has helped provide essential resources, educational opportunities, and benefits to ASBA members. The BIG Thank You Awards & Mixer is free and open to ASBA members and the public. The event will take place on November 14, 2024, from 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM at the National Bank of Arizona headquarters (6001 N 24th St, Phoenix, AZ 85016). Guests will enjoy refreshments, light fare, and an evening of networking while participating in a silent auction to benefit Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Arizona. The auction will feature exciting items from local businesses, including a wine tour at Rune Wines in Sonoita, a getaway at the Lodge at 5600 in Pine, a gift certificate to Bruzzi Vineyard in Young and Superior, and a helicopter tour of the Grand Canyon, among others. Join ASBA in celebrating the small businesses that make Arizona strong! For more information and to RSVP for free, visit asba.com/bty About ASBA: The Arizona Small Business Association (ASBA) was founded in 1973 and serves as the collective voice of small businesses in Arizona by driving a better environment for all of us to do business. Today, ASBA is focused on delivering statewide education, mentoring, networking, and advocacy programs, providing innovative entrepreneurs with the resources necessary to grow and evolve in an ever-changing marketplace. For more information, visit asba.com. Link: http://https://www.asba.com/events/EventDetails.aspx?id=1806023&group= Submitted: 10/09/24 Article By: AZ Small Business Association (ASBA) |