LR chamber honors 5 small-business award winners

Five small businesses were honored Thursday by the Little Rock Regional Chamber of Commerce for their economic and community contributions to Central Arkansas. A Little Rock public relations firm took the top prize.

Ghidotti Communications was cited as Small Business of the Year and the Community-Impact Award was given to the Arkansas Single Family Scholarship Fund, which provides financial help and other support to single parents pursuing a post-secondary degree.

Businesses were recognized at a luncheon Thursday in Little Rock.

“The Small Business Impact Awards event was a true testament to the strength and resilience of our small business community,” chamber President and Chief Executive Officer Jay Chesshir said in a statement. “We were delighted to see a packed room of supporters celebrating the achievements of our local entrepreneurs. Congratulations to all our winners for their exceptional contributions to Little Rock’s growth and prosperity.”

The 6th annual Small Business Impact Awards received more than 500 nominations and applications that were submitted to the chamber.

Recognition is a boost for the marketing firm, founder Natalie Ghidotti said Thursday. “We are huge fans of Little Rock and look forward each day to working with our clients to tell their stories of success,” she said in a statement. “We feel privileged to be in the company of so many amazing entrepreneurs working to grow our beloved city.”

The Croissanterie, a Little Rock restaurant, was honored as woman-owned business of the year. H.E.R. Counseling & Wellness of North Little Rock was recognized in the health and wellness category. The Love Little Rock award was given to Fancyful Parties of Little Rock.

Since 2019, the awards program has highlighted Central Arkansas businesses and organizations for their innovation, vision and contributions to the quality of life in the community and at their place of work.