With over 800 guests in attendance, the 33rd Annual Small Business of the Year Awards (SBOY), presented by Sam's Club, was a night to remember by small business owners and employees, Tampa business professionals, civic leaders and those who truly love the Tampa Bay community. Along with the excitement of the attendees and the celebration of small business, we had a SOLD OUT crowd! We kicked off the magical night by mingling over cocktails and meeting fellow finalists. Twitter conversations were buzzing about the excitement of finding out who will take home the titles. Did we mention we had a magician for the night? Nathan Coe Marsh, entertained the crowd with his showstopping magic tricks; some which left the crowd in disbelief. Mayor Bob Buckhorn gave a memorable speech, quoting Alicia Keys, "this town is on fire," about the growing success of Tampa and our small business community. SBOY Chair, Jamie Harden of Creative Sign Designs, and Chamber Chair, Gregory Celestan even magically appeared out of a door onstage!
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As the night went on and the crowd anxiously awaited the results; short clips of each finalist and a magic trick announcing the winner graced the video screens in the room.
Without further ado, the winners of the 2013 Small Business of the Year Awards:
- Outstanding Leader Winner: Bob Helms, of Pegasus TransTech
- Startup Company Winner: MB2X
- 5-20 Employees: The EyeDoctors
- 21-50 Employees: B-AG Contract
- 51-250 Employees: The Woman's Group, PA
Congratulations to all of our winners and finalists. Each of you are shining examples of the small business community in Tampa and we appreciate all you do at furthering the excitement that comes with small businesses.