The Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce recently recognized four organizations during this year’s Chamber Awards, presented by Chambliss, Bahner and Stophel P.C. The awards honored three small businesses of up to 300 employees and one nonprofit for their community contributions. This year’s Chamber Awards committee reviewed the nominations, conducted site visits and selected the award recipients from the finalists. More than 120 businesses of varying sizes were nominated for these prestigious awards.
The nonprofit award goes to Chattanooga Zoo, a world-class attraction serving as an innovative hub of education and conservation. Since its founding in 1937, the zoo has grown to become one of Chattanooga’s top regional attractions by showcasing the wonders of our natural world through exhibits including a recent $10 million African-wildlife expansion.
The zoo’s steadfast commitment to preserving our natural world is exemplified through conservation programs including its Hiwassee Hellbender Research and Education Facility, which supports conservation efforts across Tennessee.
Photography courtesy of BNI / BNI Executive Director Elaine Zampos.BNI Southeast Tennessee, the 1 to 20 employee category award recipient, provides its members the structure and systems to grow their businesses through qualified referrals, meaningful relationships, and quality training. Since Elaine Zambos took charge in late 2017, the company has experienced remarkable growth. Revenue has increased by 30%, and membership grew by 38%, contributing more than $33 million in member referral revenue to the local economy.
Photography courtesy of (Be)Caffeinated / (Be)Caffeinated co-owners Chris Wood and Douglas Lee at the Northshore location.(Be) Caffeinated, recipient of the 21 to 50 employee category, is a drive-thru chain that cultivates kindness. The company partners with one local nonprofit every month and holds profit share nights to support the community.