14,000 applicants vied for small business distinction
ColoradoBiz staff //October 9, 2024//
The Cavern in Colorado Springs. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
The Cavern in Colorado Springs. Photo courtesy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
14,000 applicants vied for small business distinction
ColoradoBiz staff //October 9, 2024//
Five Colorado companies were recognized Wednesday for making the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s 2024 CO–100, a list culled from 14,000 applications recognizing “100 of the best and brightest small and mid-sized businesses across America, celebrated for their remarkable contributions in driving innovation, growth, and ingenuity both locally and globally.”
In addition to Top 100 honors, one Colorado company, The Cavern Men’s Barber Lounge in Colorado Springs, was one of 10 enterprises out of the 100 recognized for outstanding achievement in their category.
Since its launch in 2021 by founder Sabina Gabriele, The Cavern has doubled its clientele and added a second location. Along with haircuts, beard detailing and facials in a relaxing atmosphere, The Cavern offers complimentary beer or wine for clients.
Other Colorado companies named to the CO-100: Holidaily Brewing Company in Golden; repurposedMATERIALS in Lafayette; Waldschanke Ciders & Coffee in Denver; and Woof Pet Inc. of Denver.
Holidaily Brewing was honored in The Disruptors category, recognizing “businesses that have boldly ventured into uncharted territory by introducing groundbreaking products or services, or by redefining traditional business structures.” Founded in 2016 by Karen Hertz, Holidaily is the only Certified Woman Owned and Certified Gluten Free brewery in the U.S.
repurposedMATERIALS was recognized in the Champions of Adaptability category, honoring “businesses that have demonstrated extraordinary resilience and tenacity in overcoming significant challenges or adversity.” repurposedMATERIALS specializes in sourcing and rehoming pre-used and discarded industrial materials, offering creative and sustainable solutions that divert waste from landfills. Founded in 2010 by Damon Carson, the company connects surplus materials like vinyl billboards and conveyor belts with customers who repurpose them, which supports a circular economy and provides affordable alternatives to new products.
Waldschänke Ciders & Coffee was recognized in the Culture Champions category, for “businesses that have cultivated a vibrant and rewarding company culture, drawing in and retaining dedicated employees who drive the company’s success.” Waldschanke offers less carbonated, and unfiltered cider that highlights the true taste of its ingredients. The cidery combines family tradition with a cozy, European-style taproom, creating a welcoming space where people can enjoy high-quality drinks while learning about the rich history and versatility of hard cider.
Woof was recognized in the Growth Accelerators category, for “businesses that have used innovative and effective strategies to achieve business growth.” Founded in 2019 by Daniel Haarberger, Woof is dedicated to enhancing the lives of dogs and their owners by creating products that simplify dog care, allowing for more meaningful moments together.
Suzanne Clark, president and CEO of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, applauded the 100 companies for creating opportunities within their communities.
“By having the vision to fill an unmet need, the courage to start something new, and the resilience to see their dreams become reality, they represent the best of our nation’s entrepreneurial spirit,” she said. “As we celebrate this year’s winners and all the outstanding businesses on our 2024 CO—100 list, we recognize the innovative spirit, relentless perseverance, and exceptional expertise that defines the dreamers, the doers, and the innovators who push our nation forward.”
The 100 honorees were invited to Washington for the awards gala and the CO—100 Small Business Forum, a half-day event featuring former Olympic gold medalist Dominique Dawes, owner of Dominique Dawes Gymnastics Academy and Ninja Studio, and other influential small business owners and experts from brands including Chopt, Ethan Allen and SheaMoisture.
The CO—100 program is part of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to supporting and advocating for small businesses. Learn more about the U.S. Chamber’s small business work here.