Florida SBDC at FGCU Honors Five Outstanding Entrepreneurs at 13th Annual Ceremony
The Small Business Development Center at Florida Gulf Coast University proudly hosted the 13th Annual Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, a sold-out event that brought together business leaders, community partners, and supporters from across the region. Held to recognize the resilience, innovation, and leadership of Southwest Florida’s small business community, the ceremony has become a signature celebration of entrepreneurial excellence in the area.
This year’s event honored five individuals whose contributions reflect the strength and diversity of the local business landscape:
- Terry Drake of Drake Ready Mix was named Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year for his leadership in the construction materials industry.
- Andres Paz of Latinos239 earned Emerging Business of the Year for his rapid growth and service to the Latino community.
- Priya Ahluwalia of MoAloo Ventures received the Servant Leader of the Year award for her work in mentorship and advocacy.
- Kevin and Daniela Noble of Noble Brews were presented with the William O. Webb Award for entrepreneurial excellence as SBDC clients.
- Craig Bamberg of Platinum Dry Cleaners was recognized as Regional Ambassador of the Year for promoting SBDC services and supporting business growth across the region.
Since its inception, the Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards have served as a platform to spotlight business owners who not only drive economic growth but also contribute to the fabric of the community. The SBDC emphasizes that these awards are not just about financial success—they are about perseverance, purpose-driven leadership, and the long-term impact of small business in Southwest Florida.
The SBDC at FGCU extends its gratitude to all who made the evening possible, including sponsors, partners, and attendees. As we continue our mission to support small businesses, events like this highlight the importance of recognizing those who are shaping the future of the region. Plans are already underway for next year’s celebration, and we hope to see you there!
