Browse the Business Growth Awards section of this issue and you’re likely to notice a common theme. Despite the slow moving economic environment, this edition is full of stories of success in the private sector.
But how did they do it? How did these companies find a way to grow, when many were simply striving to survive? It doesn’t just boil down to luck.
Make no mistake, the owners and entrepreneurs nominated for Fastest Growing Businesses in the 2010 Business Growth Awards felt the downturn’s crunch. However, instead of giving in to the pressures of the Great Recession, these finalists were able to fight their way out. These men and women responded to the challenge of tough economic times by restructuring their organizations and refocusing their marketing efforts. They witnessed trends in their industries and positioned themselves to be ahead of the curve and ahead of demand. They became more nimble, more responsive and less resistant to change. And perhaps most important of all, they all worked extremely hard.
For the startups recognized in this edition, it took passion, persistence and a firm belief in their work to get as far as they did in year one. In addition to implementing strong ideas, these businesses proved customer service is king and growing a positive reputation is vital.
It has been said in years past that innovators are the people who understand what “3 a.m. courage” is all about. These are the people who so passionately believe in their company, their product-line and their customers, they awake before sunrise planning, plotting, praying and/or worrying. That being said, each business recognized in this edition has become an innovator in their own way, as it takes the upmost dedication to one's craft to be successful in this environment.
On Thursday, April 21st at the Heathman Lodge in Vancouver, we held the 7th Annual Business Growth Awards, with finalists showcasing their ideas, products and businesses. Before the winners were announced, S.C.O.R.E. Vancouver's Carlos Gonzales explained to the audience how difficult it was for his organization to choose winners in each category.
Gonzales said each and every business that was nominated should be very proud of their impressive accomplishments, and I couldn’t agree more. As Southwest Washington’s economy continues on its long path out of recession, we must celebrate the fact that many businesses have already begun to turn the corner – all in the hopes of inspiring others to do the same.
