Small businesses form the backbone of our local economy.
Each year our Chattanooga Chamber takes time to recognize the small businesses in our community that serve as examples of excellence.
Join us in celebrating these local finalists during Chamber Awards 2023, presented by Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel, P.C.
1-20 Employees
HandUp Gloves launched out of the mud and rush of cyclocross, a niche sport that fosters creativity and community connection. Founded in 2014 by two passionate sports enthusiasts, HandUp offers unique and affordable products that stand out in the market. Their affordable athleisure wear has made it into the hands of Tour De France cyclists, Olympians, national champions and celebrities.
Today, HandUp is a thriving business, connecting communities through fun, high-quality products.
BNI Southeast Tennessee
For those looking to network and grow their business, BNI offers the structure and systems to grow member businesses through qualified referrals, meaningful relationships and quality training to help reach your desired income goals. Since Elaine Zambos took over BNI in late 2017, revenues have increased by 30% and membership has grown 38%, contributing more than $33 million in member referral revenue to our local economy.
LearningRX Chattanooga
LearningRX is committed to improving cognitive development for neurodiverse children in Chattanooga and Hamilton County. They are Tennessee’s first board-certified cognitive training center and encourage adaptive learning through individualized brain training programs. With 60% increase in revenue over the past five years, and 50% increase in overall client county, LearningRX has established itself as one of the Southeast’s most trusted cognitive training programs.
21-50 Employees
Thorough Built
Thorough Built is a metal fabricating company that offers engineering, design and manufacturing solutions to various industries including automotive, hydropower and IT technologies. They also offer specialty crane services as well as full-service structural steel solutions to a wide range of clients.
As metal fabricators, Thorough Built stands behind some of our region’s most notable structures including Steam Logistics’ downtown rooftop and support for the Chattanooga Airport expansion.
(Be) Caffeinated is a drive-thru chain that cultivates kindness.
Through their giveback program, the (Be) Caffeinated partners with one local non-profit every month, and even holds profit share nights to support the community.
The company saw record sales in 2022, grossing more than $1.5 million, and is poised to surpass that record this year.
Roasting their own coffee out of a Northshore location with sister company, New Wave Coffee, (Be) Caffeinated offers a variety of specialty beverages, including signature drinks in partnership with Chattanooga Football Club and Chattanooga Lookouts.
In addition to coffee, the company offers pastries from local businesses like Poppyton’s Patisserie and Cheiman Tea, along with pastries fresh from their own (Be) Caffeinated Bakery.
Warren & Griffin, P.C.
Warren & Griffin, P.C. has built a reputation for providing exceptional service to its clients. The law firm was founded in 2002 by C. Mark Warren and John Mark Griffin, two attorneys with a shared passion for representing individuals over corporations.
The firm has experienced steady growth over the past 20 years, with a total of 10 attorneys across two offices in Chattanooga and Dalton.
Together, they have more 5-star Google reviews than any other law firm in Tennessee. With their continued growth, Warren & Griffin have hired their 11th attorney, who will start practicing following the July 2023 bar exam.
51-300 Employees
Master Machine, Inc.
For more than 30 years, Master Machine Inc. (MMI) has provided machining, fabrication and engineering services to support our nuclear, naval and aerospace industries. Established in 1993, MMI holds to its golden rule that integrity is non-negotiable.
By partnering with local companies like TVA, Southern Nuclear and Tennessee Valley Robotics, MMI has established itself as a community partner that’s set for continued growth.
In fact, they’ve invested more than $4 million in new equipment, buildings, and tooling over the last several years to support expansion.
Echelon Fitness Multimedia
Headquartered in Chattanooga, Echelon Fitness connects a global network of members, athletes and celebrities through online classes and home workout equipment.
Launched in 2017 by founder, Lou Lentine, Echelon supports healthy lifestyles through four main product lines: a space-saving treadmill and indoor bike, an interactive mirror for strength and conditioning classes, and an innovative rowing machine launched in 2022.
Through monthly memberships and community engagement, athletes are connected to a network of world-class coaches and trainers that challenge them to reach their ultimate fitness goals.
Chattanooga Allergy Clinic
Founded in 1975 by Dr. Hyman Kaplan, Chattanooga Allergy Clinic is the region’s first full-service clinic with board-certified physicians in allergy, asthma and Immunology. The practice has grown from five employees in one office to more than 100 employees in nine offices throughout the region including satellite locations in Hixson, Jasper, Dayton and Ooltewah.
Chattanooga Allergy Clinic engages the community by offering access to convenient, quality care. They also sponsor daily pollen counts on WRCB Channel 3 as well as air quality reports on WDEF Channel 12.
Nonprofit Finalists
The Chattanooga Zoo is more than just a world-class attraction, it’s a hub of innovation, education and conservation with cutting-edge exhibits, educational offerings and a steadfast commitment to preserving our natural world.
Founded in 1937 with just two rhesus monkeys, the zoo quickly grew to become one of Chattanooga’s top regional attractions. Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums in 1998, Chattanooga Zoo has continuously expanded its exhibit offering including a recent $10 million African-wildlife expansion.
In 2021, the zoo opened the Hiwassee Hellbender Research and Education Facility to conserve the Eastern Hellbender and continues to support conservation efforts across Tennessee.
Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition
Since 1995, Chattanooga Regional Homeless Coalition (CRHC) has worked to assist individuals living in unsuitable conditions by providing housing and resources to help them get back on their feet.
Despite an increase in homelessness throughout Southeast Tennessee, CRHC refuses to back down. They were recently awarded $2.3 million to prevent and end youth homelessness and were chosen to participate in a Racial Equity Cohort, which aims to improve housing outcomes for historically marginalized communities.
Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Chattanooga
Poverty and other obstacles threaten the well-being of more than 18% of children in Hamilton County. For over six decades, Big Brothers Big Sisters Greater Chattanooga has inspired children to follow their dreams.
Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Chattanooga have helped over 20,000 Littles overcome challenges and effectively cope with life’s stressors.
They offer a range of innovative programs that cater to our community’s diverse needs. Through site and school-based programs to workplace mentoring, E-mentoring, and even scholarship programs, Littles develop the courage, confidence, and resilience needed to reach their highest potential.
Join this year’s Chamber Awards held at the Chattanooga Convention Center – May 17 from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Purchase your tickets and register, here.
