Seeking Kentucky’s Most Accomplished Small Businesses

LEXINGTON, Ky. (January 12, 2012) − The Kentucky Small Business Development Center is now accepting nominations for the 5th annual Kentucky Business Pacesetter Program. The program recognizes businesses that are changing the economic landscape of Kentucky by introducing innovative products; increasing sales and/or production; boosting employment; and, serving the communities of the commonwealth.

The recognition program is designed to honor high performing, second-stage businesses that are privately held and have been in business for three or more years. Companies that meet the following minimum qualifications are encouraged to apply:

Employ six or more full-time equivalent employees, including the owner
Sales meeting or exceeding $500,000.00
Demonstrate the intent and capacity to grow based on evidence, such as:
Employee or sales growth
Exceptional entrepreneurial leadership
Sustainable competitive advantage
Other notable factors that showcase the company’s success

Nomination forms are available and may be submitted online at http://ksbdc.org/nominate/ . Any third party who is associated with a successful second-stage business is encouraged to submit a nomination form. Additionally, self nominations are accepted. All nominations are due by February 17, 2012. Winners will be recognized in front of government leaders and small business owners at the Kentucky Celebrates Small Business event being held in May 2012. Winners will receive a promotional DVD highlighting their business, an award inscribed with their company’s name, a profile of their company in a commemorative program, use of the official Pacesetter’s logo, customized media releases announcing the award and an invitation to an exclusive luncheon.

Eight successful businesses located throughout Kentucky were inducted as 2011 Pacesetters. These honorees are: Capital Cellars, DMD Data Systems, Earl G. Dumplin’s, EHI Consultants, Fast Process Service, Geothermal Supply Company, Puzzle’s Fun Dome, and Shelby Industries.

The Kentucky Small Business Development Center is a network of 15 service centers located throughout the commonwealth that help existing and start-up businesses succeed by offering high quality, in-depth and hands-on services. These services include: no-cost confidential business consultations, affordable business workshops and seminars, research to make informed business decisions and valuable resources.