Business Excellence Awards
Since 2015, The Chamber has recognized exceptional businesses and business leaders in our community at the Business Excellence Awards. Annual award winners are presented with special bee sculptures in recognition of their achievements. (Scroll down to see all past winners!)
See award category descriptions below:
The New Business of the Year award is presented to a business that has been operating for less than three years, shown growth over the past three years, provided for an outstanding community/economic need, and overcome adversity.
The Business of the Year Awards will be presented to outstanding Chamber member businesses that have shown growth, innovation of product, exemplary customer service, response to adversity, and/or contribution to the community.
One recipient each for:
- A charitable non-profit organization
- Micro Enterprise Business (<5 employees)
- Mid-Size Business (6-50 employees)
- Large Business (50+ employees)
The Community Impact Award is presented to an outstanding organization that has significantly and measurably made social, economic, or environmental improvements within the Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro community.
The Innovation Award is presented to a business that has demonstrated innovation through the concept, value, delivery, and impact of a product or service, system, or event.
The Young Professional of the Year award is presented to a young professional under 40 that has demonstrated outstanding leadership in their industry and whose achievements have promoted young professional engagement via leadership in the community pertaining to economic development and civic engagement. The nominee must be under 40 years of age as of Jan. 1, 2025.
The Businesswoman of the Year award is presented to an exceptional woman in business that has not only excelled in her job function and industry, but has also pioneered initiatives to promote female leadership in business and the community.
The Black Business Alliance Person of the Year award is presented to an exceptional person in business that has not only excelled in their job function and industry, but has also pioneered initiatives to promote Black business and community leadership.
2025 BUSINESS EXCELLENCE AWARDS WINNERS
In remembrance and honor of her years of service and dedication to our community, the Black Business Alliance is proud to announce Barbara Jessie-Black as the Black Business Alliance Businessperson of the Year. See Barbara's video here.
Congratulations to Daniella Jaimes-Colina, our 2025 Businesswoman of the Year! See winner video here.
Congratulations to Jasmine Lubbad, our 2025 Young Professional of the Year! See winner video here.
Congratulations to Wedgewood Cheese Bar, our 2025 New Business of the Year! See winner video here.
Congratulations to Sidekick Designs, our 2025 Micro-Enterprise Business of the Year! See winner video here.
Congratulations to Ta Contento, our 2025 Mid-Size Business of the Year! See winner video here.
Congratulations to Gonzalez Painters & Contractors, our 2025 Large Business of the Year! See winner video here.
Congratulations to TABLE, our 2025 Non-Profit of the Year! See winner video here.
Congratulations to EMPOWERment, Inc., our 2025 recipient of the Community Impact Award! See winner video here.
Congratulations to HonorBridge, our 2025 recipient of the Innovation Award! See winner video here.
Click the category and business names below to review videos honoring past award winners:
New Business of the Year
Momo’s Master Himalayan Bistro has been serving up delicious momos, a type of dumpling popular in Tibet and Nepal, since opening in downtown Chapel Hill in late 2021. The Momo Master himself, Ramesh Dahal, cooked in Iraq, Somalia, and the southern United States before opening Momo’s Master, bringing a new type of food and culture to Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro.
Momo's Master stands apart from other downtown restaurants, with a menu of healthier alternatives and offering their delightful pan-fried and steamed momos, rather than the traditional deep-fried dumplings. With the goal of making every customer feel like they’re at home with family, Momo’s Master uses the freshest ingredients and serves their dishes with pride and a smile.
Within just a year and a half, Momo's Master has become a beloved establishment within the Chapel Hill community. Chef Dahal’s love for serving others shines through, not just his enthusiasm for sharing his culture with diners, his personal infectious energy, and also through Momo’s donations of food to community groups and gatherings.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Since opening in July 2022 and expanding to Governors Village in May 2023, Kindred Heart Animal Hospital has demonstrated remarkable growth and innovation. Starting as a small team of five, they have expanded to a team of 17 staff members, including 4 doctors. Embracing a holistic approach to pet care, they have introduced Fear Free and Cat Friendly practices, demonstrating their dedication to creating a supportive environment for both pets and their owners. Their expansion into a second location and the addition of mobile services and grooming reflect their commitment to meeting the diverse needs of their community.
Beyond their core services, Kindred Heart actively collaborates with local businesses and hosts community events. Their partnerships with Meals on Wheels, Paws4Ever, and local rescue groups underscore their commitment to giving back and meeting people and their pets where they are.
In recognition of their compassion, service, and the impact they have made on the community in just a few years, we are proud to name Kindred Heart Animal Hospital the 2024 New Business of the Year.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Micro-Enterprise Business of the Year
In three short years, Olmaz Jewlers has captured the hearts and trust of their customers and embodies the qualities and values that define a truly outstanding local business. Co-owned and managed by friends and business partners Jack Daud and Elie Abu Rjeileh, this family-owned and operated retailer earns customer loyalty and racks up the 5-star google reviews with exemplary customer services and a commitment to quality. Located in Eastgate Crossing, at Olmaz, customer satisfaction is the cornerstone of their business, as they strive to ensure that every individual who walks through their doors receives the utmost care and attention.
Over the past year, Olmaz has expanded their team, welcoming two new sales associates and a jeweler. Their dedication to excellence is evident in their investments, including the acquisition of advanced equipment like a laser welder and a gem setting microscope. In their relentless pursuit of quality, they are now shopping for a cutting-edge diamond screener that differentiates between natural and lab-grown diamonds.
Through their community volunteerism and generous donations to local non-profit silent auctions, Olmaz has positively impacted many organizations, including Hope Renovations, the YMCA, Ronald McDonald House, and Orange Literacy. Olmaz owners are generous with their times as well serving on the Chamber’s Board and Membership committee and leading a new Retail leaders group to share best practices in local retail management.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Local stationery and gifts abound at My Muses Card Shop. Opening in December 2019, My Muses Card Shop overcame challenges created by the Covid-19 pandemic by expanding offerings beyond stationery to include art supplies and interactive art classes. This year My Muses launched their in-house greeting card line with artwork created by owner Abi Sivadas, and their upcoming expansion into a neighboring space for classes and gallery exhibits marks an exciting milestone in the shop’s growth.
My Muses focuses on stocking eco-friendly and ethically sourced products. Their emphasis on warmth, personalization, and attention to detail, the shop consistently exceeds customer expectations. This commitment to customer service is highlighted by a remarkable number of 5-star reviews.
Beyond its role as a retail establishment, My Muses Card Shop actively contributes to the community. By supporting local artists, facilitating art classes, and holding monthly meditation sessions, the shop fosters a vibrant cultural exchange that exemplifies its values as a responsible community member.
For their attention to detail, rapid growth, and phenomenal customer service, we are proud to recognize My Muses Card Shop as the 2024 Micro Enterprise Business of the Year.
Click Here to see the winner's video.
Mid Size Business of the Year
Jenny Hoffman founded J. Hoffman Studio Design Build as a one-woman operation in 2015. Eight years later, J. Hoffman Studio Design Build now boasts a team of 10 talented individuals, each with specialized skills including architectural design, interior design, and construction and project management, as well as sales, operations, and administration.
One of the hallmarks of J. Hoffman is their meticulous attention to detail. From translating extensive notes from client conversations into detailed blueprints, to working with municipalities to ensure compliance with local regulations, J. Hoffman’s thoroughness is evident. Hoffman Studio Design Build’s talented staff and exceptional work has garnered well-deserved recognition within the industry, recently winning awards in five categories at the Home Builders Association of Durham, Orange, and Chatham County’s “Remodelers Outstanding Construction” Awards.
As a woman and LGBTQ-owned and staffed company, J. Hoffman Studio Design Build champions inclusivity and actively supports local and national non-profits and trades-training initiatives. By advocating and creating opportunities for young people, women, and gender minorities in the design and construction fields, J. Hoffman has become an agent of change and a role model for others.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Serving nearly 400 students, School of Rock Chapel Hill pioneers a unique approach to musical education, fostering teamwork, time management, and accountability through real rock band experiences. Moving beyond the franchisors' required instruments they have added instruction in saxophone, accordion, trumpet and banjo, making more comprehensive musical education available to local kids. They welcome students of all backgrounds and abilities, even offering an informal sliding scale price structure, ensuring everyone feels valued, welcomed, and ready to rock.
With an impressive team of 24 dedicated instructors and staff all earning a certified living wage, the school maintains near-zero turnover, ensuring continuity for students.
Attacking students’ stage fright and giving back to the community at the same time, School of Rock often performs at local fundraisers and partners with area organizations like the CHCCS Public School Foundation, Ronald McDonald House, SKJAJA, and others. This weekend, students from School of Rock will be playing a fundraising show for the Lineberger Cancer Center.
Click Here to see the winner's video.
Large Business of the Year
Jersey Mike’s is owned and operated by eight families who share a common vision—to change the world by taking care of their customers, employees, and community.
From a single store on Elliott Road, led by Charlie Farris and Clint Winslow, they have expanded their presence to 13 stores in the Chapel Hill/Triangle area.
What sets this local Jersey Mike’s apart from others is their unique owner/operator model where customers are often greeted and served by local owners working alongside their employees.
Jersey Mike’s dedicated staff of 150 individuals are trained to provide laser-focused attention to customers embodying the mantra, "make that sub like you're making it for your momma."
In the face of the adversity that Covid and subsequent hospitality staffing challenges created, Jersey Mike's has shown resilience as they continue to grow, maintain quality, and deliver outstanding customer service.
Jersey Mike's has consistently given back to their local community through financial contributions, food donations, or hand delivered community coupons, building a reputation as a reliable community investor.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Click Here to watch the winner's video.
Non-Profit of the Year
Since 1971, South Orange Rescue Squad’s all-volunteer team has served the citizens of Orange County by providing essential emergency medical and technical rescue services and offering free first aid and CPR instruction throughout the community.
South Orange Rescue Squad proudly supplements Orange County’s nighttime EMS 911 operations and provides ambulance surge coverage when the county’s system is overloaded and provides EMS services at UNC sporting events, local high school football games, road races, street fairs, and other community programs.
South Orange Rescue Squad continues to innovate and expand their offerings: Their volunteers undergo rigorous training, staying up to date with the latest advances and practices in emergency medicine and response. Continuously upgrading their training and certifications, they are working to ensure they are ready for anything. To ensure the most up-to-date use of technology, their Technical Response Team has embraced drone technology for search and rescue operations.
Committed to promoting career development pathways in emergency medicine, South Orange Rescue Squad recently donated a retired ambulance to Chapel Hill-Carrboro City School’s technical education program.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
In 2023, The ArtsCenter celebrated the opening of its new home, featuring three distinct makerspaces: a STEAM Lab, a Digital Lab, and a Fiber Arts Lab, alongside a ceramics studio, painting studio, and theater.
The ArtsCenter is committed to building partnerships with other local non-profits to serve under-engaged populations. By expanding outreach and offering scholarships and satellite programs, they eliminate barriers to access and create a fair, equitable, and transformative community hub, enhancing a sense of belonging in Carrboro and the greater Triangle area.
Celebrating their 50th Anniversary, The ArtsCenter has transformed from a one-room arts school into an 18,000 sq. ft. state-of-the-art, multi-disciplinary facility, remaining a cornerstone of downtown Carrboro and defining it as a creative community.
Click Here to watch the winner's video.
University Born Business of the Year
Community Impact Award
Founded in 1963, Grubb Properties has prioritized the development of sustainable communities while giving back and investing in projects with community, social, and environmental benefits.
In Chapel Hill, no organization is currently having a greater positive impact on our local economy than Grubb Properties.
Most notably, Grubb is helping lead the redevelopment of downtown’s Franklin and Rosemary Street into Chapel Hill’s future Innovation District, beginning with their purchase and redevelopment of the newly renamed Junction, a glass-clad innovation hub and start-up accelerator anchored by two floors of UNC’s Innovate Carolina.
Next to The Junction is Grubb’s recently approved Life Sciences Center with 240,000 square feet of lab and work space for researchers and biotech companies. Across from the Junction is the Downtown Parking Center, with eleven hundred much-needed parking spaces currently under construction. Rounding out the project, Grubb Link apartments will bring 150 new units priced for local working professionals with first floor retail, priced to be affordable to locally-owned businesses.
Just a mile down South Road from UNC, Grubb is redeveloping Glen Lennox into a mixed-use live, work, play community. With guaranteed long-term affordability for long-term residents, an affordable housing partnership with Community Home Trust and the new Link apartments, Grubb has completed the project with The Gwendolyn - a building named for the first African American Woman to enroll at UNC.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Founded in Chapel Hill nearly 55 years ago, Piedmont Health Services has been a cornerstone of healthcare in Orange County and central North Carolina. The dedication of its remarkable staff, who consistently go above and beyond in their service, drives Piedmont’s mission of excellence.
Piedmont has significantly enhanced community health through its 10 Community Health Centers and two PACE SeniorCare centers, which serve five counties. PHS stands as a beacon of quality healthcare, providing medical, dental, pharmacy, nutrition, and senior care services to low-income families and marginalized populations. Upholding inclusivity, PHS ensures compassionate care for all, regardless of race, religion, national origin, disability, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, or payment means.
Through its innovative mobile health units, PHS has expanded its reach, delivering essential medical and dental services to students directly at schools. This initiative fosters a healthier student population and strengthens community bonds.
The lasting impact of PHS extends beyond immediate healthcare, empowering individuals with knowledge and skills for self-care and proactive health management. By prioritizing education alongside healthcare, PHS cultivates long-term resilience and wellness within the community.
Click Here to watch the winner's video.
Innovation Award
Habitat for Humanity has built a global reputation for addressing the challenges of safe, affordable housing through a partnership between the homeowners who help built the homes and the staff, donors, and volunteers who support them. Locally, Habitat for Humanity of Orange County is delivering on its mission, exceeding its fundraising goals, and is beginning the construction of its ambitious Weavers Grove development.
Weavers Grove is a unique project among the nation’s Habitat chapters – developing a mixed-income neighborhood with 101 affordable and 136 market-rate homes. The diverse homeowner base and pedestrian-centered design will promote neighborly interaction, healthy recreation, and support local families in a safe, stable environment.
Through careful stewardship, collaboration with local governments, and a historic $8 million capital campaign, Habitat has successfully realized this $30 million project. Weavers Grove's impact extends beyond its homeowners, supporting economic mobility, educational improvement, reduced healthcare costs, and positive environmental impact with planned solar, green spaces, and electric vehicle charging stations.
For their continued dedication to serving the people of our community, and their innovation and ambition in developing affordable housing, we are proud to honor Habitat for Humanity of Orange County with the Chamber’s 2023 Innovation Award.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Opening in 2022 as central North Carolina's first aquamation facility, Endswell Aquamation offers low-emission cremation, green burial, and aquamation—a method that uses a fraction of the energy of traditional cremation and produces no greenhouse gases. This positions Endswell at the forefront of environmentally responsible funeral care.
Endswell redefines the funeral home experience, transforming it into a modern service adorned with plants and over 300 unique urns by local artists. Their eco-friendly services, transparent pricing, easy online booking, and comprehensive concierge care support families through every step of the process.
Committed to open conversations about death and dying, Endswell educates and empowers individuals to make eco-friendly end-of-life choices. Through regular community engagements, they normalize these universal experiences, resonating deeply with those focused on leaving a positive environmental legacy.
By offering environmentally friendly alternatives, Endswell aligns with a community that values environmentalism and social justice.
Click Here to watch the winner's video.
Business Woman of the Year
https://www.cnn.com/videos/tv/2022/05/19/north-carolina-jobs-construction-cnnheroes.cnn
Throughout Ellen Shannon’s 40+ year career in the media business, she has not only built successful events, magazines, and publications but has been an influential mentor to countless women - supporting their growth, happiness, satisfaction, and success.
Under Ellen's leadership, Triangle Media Partners has honored and recognized over 200 women through the Women of Achievement magazine features and events, inspiring and uplifting women from all across the region. Ellen fosters a culture that nurtures, inspires, empowers, and uplifts women by providing opportunities for their growth, recognizing their talent and hard work, and actively promoting them. Her commitment to mentorship is evident in the lasting impact she has made on dozens of mentees, who continue to reach out to her for guidance and support.
At age 30, Ellen became the youngest Vice President of a high-power media company and continues to thrive and defy expectations in an increasingly complex and competitive media market. In the past 24 months, Triangle Media Partners, better known for their popular Chapel Hill Magazine, Chatham Magazine, Triangle Weekender, Heart of NC Weddings, visitor and relocation guides, and their popular events Sip and Savor and Women of Achievement, has doubled its revenue with their new digital arm, Triangle Digital Partners, and expanding print business.
Beyond her professional accomplishments, Ellen is deeply involved in the community. She has served on various local boards, including The Chamber’s, where she demonstrated outstanding leadership by steering them and their members throughout the COVID crisis as the Chair of the Board of Directors. In July, Ellen will assume the role of Vice President of the Board of the Durham Tech Foundation. Triangle Media Partners also donates tens of thousands of dollars in advertising to nonprofits each year.
In recognition of her business leadership, mentorship, tenacity, and dedication to community, we are proud to recognize Ellen Shannon as The Chamber’s 2023 Businesswoman of the Year.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
As the owner of Holman Family Dental Care, Dr. Shaina Holman has not only established an award-winning practice, but has cultivated an incredible team through her tremendous leadership.
Dr. Holman prioritizes her team's well-being, offering exceptional benefits, including a 401K with matching contributions, comprehensive health insurance, and paid continuing education. Further, the importance Dr. Holman places on mentorship is admirable. Six and a half years ago, Dr. Holman started the practice with just two employees. One of those employees, her office manager, now manages a team of 24. Dr. Holman mentors two other female doctors in her practice, enhancing their clinical skills and collaborating on complex cases.
Holman Family Dental Care has received significant recognition, winning the Indy Week Best Dental Office in Orange/Chatham County every year since the office opened. Last year, they were awarded Best Dental Office in the Triangle. Dr. Holman has cultivated a thriving practice supported by a passionate community.
Outside of her professional responsibilities, Dr. Holman is active in the community. As President of the Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Chapel Hill Chapter, she spearheads community service initiatives and scholarship fundraising. She is also a lifetime member of the NAACP local branch.
Click Here to watch the winner's video.
Young Professional of the Year
https://youtu.be/VlFhdqQuDPU (Peri)
https://youtu.be/VlFhdqQuDPU (Rowe)
Upon receiving his MBA from Kenan-Flagler School of Business at UNC, Alex Brandwein launched Brandwein's Bagels in the spring of 2020, and has since transformed from a pop-up bagel shop to a thriving restaurant and catering company. Aware of the importance of investing in your own community, Alex sources local ingredients and is an Orange County Living Wage Employer, paying his 50 plus workers a fair wage.
Alex’s hustle and strong leadership have earned Brandwein’s recognitions including Chapel Hill Magazine's "Best Breakfast" and "Best Catering" Awards, and INDY Week's "Best Bagel of the Triangle,” and the Chamber’s University-Born Business of the Year.
Brandwein’s serves the community delicious bagels, but they also support the community through Brandwein’s "Fundraiser Fridays" initiative, donating 10% of sales to local organizations - over $25,000 was donated to 33 organizations in 2022. Brandwein’s also provides generous in-kind support, providing bagels and gift cards for community activities. Additionally, Alex mentors high school and college students, both at work and in their academic pursuits, furthering their growth and development.
Alex recently capitalized on an opportunity to purchase his building and the building next door to expand and renovate the shop, increasing production capacity.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
Alex Nickodem, a dedicated real estate professional and community advocate, has made significant strides in making homeownership more accessible. As a former fundraiser for Habitat for Humanity, he champions a "real estate for all" model, actively working with first-time buyers, low-income individuals, and middle-income families.
His passion for this model has inspired other real estate professionals to join his mission, aiming to create a paradigm shift within the industry. Throughout his time in real estate, he has helped 28 first-time buyers, who make up 47% of his deals.
Named the 2023 Best Realtor by Chapel Hill Magazine, Alex’s influence in the community extends beyond transactions. In 2023, Alex's dedication to housing was highlighted when he spoke at an inclusionary housing summit. His passion resonated so deeply that the Executive Director of Hope NC, who was in the audience, invited him to join their board.
In addition to this board service, he recently represented Habitat for Humanity in purchasing 15 acres of land for dozens of future homes. Further, he chairs fundraising for the Ephesus Elementary PTA and donates 5% of his profits annually to Habitat.
Click Here to watch the winner's video.
Black Business Alliance Businessperson of the Year
As the Chief Community Impact and Public Affairs Officer at Coastal Credit Union, Creighton Blackwell creates and leads organization-wide strategy to increase membership and to grow Coastal’s already substantial positive community impact. Creighton’s strategic approach and unwavering dedication to the credit union’s members and to positive community outcomes has contributed significantly to Coastal’s growth and success.
Creighton successfully led Coastal’s efforts to direct over $1 million in grants to support local nonprofits impacted by Covid-19. In addition to managing the credit union’s strong external impact, Creighton also leads internally, including launching Coastal’s Diversity, Inclusion, and Belonging Committee and strategies that strengthen the company’s operations as an inclusive and equitable workplace.
Raised in Orange County and a graduate of UNC Chapel Hill, Creighton Blackwell continues to serve through his involvement in various community impact organizations. Whether serving North Carolina as the chair of the state’s Council on Economic Education and on the Governor’s Taskforce on Inclusive Education, or locally as Chair of the Chamber’s Partnership for a Greater Chapel Hill-Carrboro, Creighton gives his personal and professional time, expertise, and leadership to organizations that make a difference on people and communities.
Creighton’s most impactful local work has been in the resources he directs to, or raises in support of, service organizations and in his leadership as chair of the Chamber’s Partnership and chair of the Big Bold Ideas initiative for the last four years.
Creighton firmly believes that "doing good is simply good business.”
In recognition of his business leadership and community service, we are proud to name Creighton Blackwell the Black Business Alliance’s 2023 Businessperson of the Year.
Click here to watch the winner's video.
As Associate Director of the African Studies Center at UNC-Chapel Hill and owner of Ẹkẹ́ Foods, Ada Umenwaliri has demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication to fostering diversity and community engagement.
With a mission to make West African food accessible, cost-effective, and easy to prepare, Ada launched Ẹkẹ́ Foods, an online marketplace whose flagship product is the delicious and versatile Jollof Rice Sauce. In addition to her roles at UNC, Ẹkẹ́ Foods, and as a mother, Ada also runs a blossoming catering company specializing in West African cuisine.
Ada established the first African Heritage community at St. Thomas More and volunteers throughout the community. A committed mentor, Ada takes great pride in guiding students and campus groups towards success, helping them recognize their strengths and opportunities.
Ada gracefully navigates the complexities of academia and entrepreneurship, always finding a student to uplift, a way to share her West African culture, or another project – she’s currently pursuing a PhD at Carolina.
Click Here to watch the winner's video.