FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 

Think Dutchess Alliance for Business Highlights Leadership and Economic Success in Dutchess County at Annual Awards

 

Six winners awarded highest honors for their contributions toward economic development.

 

November 5, 2019

POUGHKEEPSIE, N.Y. —

On Thursday, October 24, 2019, Think Dutchess Alliance for Business honored six award-winning businesses and leaders at the annual Business Excellence Awards. Nearly 300 C-Suite executives, top government official and proud business supporters joined to celebrate the achievements of the honorees.

“The Business Excellence Awards celebrate success, and our winners represent what it takes to attain that success,” said Sarah Lee, CEO of Think Dutchess. “In 2019 we saw increased visibility of our county in film and television production, international and national media outlets, through new businesses attracted and business expansions. These winners helped build the foundation of our economy to help make that happen.”

                                                   

Special guest speaker, Jeff Havens, entertained and inspired the evening’s guests with a well-researched and comedic keynote speech on leadership aimed at improving and highlighting organizational communication. “I am honored to present this group of honorees with an award that is an example of great leadership,” said keynote humorist and author, Jeff Havens. “These leaders inspire us to reach our fullest potential. Additionally, they represent the mission of Think Dutchess to recognize the importance of the individuals in the business sector that lead to great, engaged communities.”

Award winners included:

• • • • •  Small Business of the Year: Earth, Wind & Fuego for their innovative approach to workforce development and tireless work to deliver a transformational experience for both their employees and the community they serve.
        • Large Business of the Year: S&O Construction Services for a phenomenal job over the past three decades to raise the profile and prestige of the skilled trades and their determination to give back to the community.
      • • Nonprofit of the Year: Dutchess SCORE for the dedication and impact of the all-volunteer network that bolsters our small business community.
        • Innovator of the Year: Accessadoor for pioneering technology with the ability to impact more than 3 ½ million people and alter 50 year old technology.
        • The Grand Award/Business of the Year: iPark 84 for the rapid reinvigoration and redevelopment of a once-vacant parcel, creation of a food-hub supporting a target industry for the county and plans for continued growth.
        • Special Recognition Award: Charles R. Daniels III for his contributions to developing and supporting economic development in Dutchess County.

    To see more from the event visit our Facebook Page.

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    About Think Dutchess Alliance for Business

    Think Dutchess Alliance for Business is the one-stop-shop for business development needs and activities in Dutchess County, New York. A business-led, nationally recognized economic development corporation, Think Dutchess’ mission is to attract, retain, and expand for-profit and not-for-profit businesses in Dutchess County. Think Dutchess' organizational structure includes programs in business retention, expansion and attraction; financial counseling and deal structuring; zoning and permitting; commercial real estate; innovation and technology; strategic marketing and municipal advocacy. For more information about Think Dutchess Alliance for Business, visit www.thinkdutchess.com