The annual Small Business Week kicked off with a virtual event that featured workshops, marketing panel discussions and other events. The theme of the week was “The Year of Artificial Intelligence (Action and Innovation).” During the event, the winners of the Small Business Week Awards were announced.
The first winner was Von Kessel & Partners iFLI Indoor Skidiving in Colorado Springs, which was opened in March 2022 by three retired Air Force Academy colonels. Second prize went to Bero and Bero of Platinum Group Realtors, a family business. Finally, Jackie Lujan was named Young Entrepreneur of the Year for her work at The Lighthouse Early Care and Education. Zachary Barker was named Small Business Champion of the Year for his contribution to business development consultancy.
The Small Business Person of the Year award went to Sevan Stryker, CEO of Bob Penkhus Motor Co. Sevan Stryker has been instrumental in driving growth and innovation at Bob Penkhus Motor Co., making it one of the most successful small businesses in Pikes Peak region. His leadership and vision have helped him achieve this recognition as Small Business Person of the Year.