Florida SBDC at FGCU Honors Local Entrepreneurs at 2024 Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards
FORT MYERS, FL (May 9, 2024) — The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Florida Gulf Coast University (FGCU) is proud to announce the winners of its highly anticipated 2024 Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards. This annual event highlights outstanding local business leaders, and recognizes the dedication, innovation, and success of entrepreneurs across Southwest Florida. It also serves as an inspiring gathering that unites the region’s thriving business community.
This year’s top honor, the Distinguished Entrepreneur Award, was presented to Deanna Wallin, founder of Naples Soap Company. Wallin’s unwavering commitment to crafting high-quality, natural skincare products, combined with her exceptional focus on customer service, has propelled her company into the spotlight as a leading brand in the skincare industry. Her story exemplifies the spirit of entrepreneurship, turning her passion into a flourishing business that now enjoys both local and national success.
Another remarkable achievement came from Dr. Jenny Cavanaugh of smiLee Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, who took home the Emerging Business Award. Dr. Cavanaugh’s child-centered approach to dental care, combined with her practice’s rapid growth, has set new standards in pediatric dentistry. Her dedication to creating a welcoming and innovative environment for children and families has distinguished her practice as a regional leader in the healthcare industry.
The evening also recognized the inspiring work of Erika Donalds, founder of OptimaEd, with the Servant Leader Award. Donalds has built her educational services company around the core principles of inclusivity and support, helping students and families navigate the often-complex world of education. Her unwavering commitment to empowering students and fostering academic success has made OptimaEd a valued resource for the community.
In addition to these main awards, two special recognitions were presented:
- SBA Award for State of Florida Minority Business Owner of the Year: Janelle Miley of Global Strategies LLC was honored for her groundbreaking work in international trade consulting, a field where her leadership has had a significant impact on helping businesses navigate global markets.
- William O. Webb Award: Chelsey Katz of Blind Date Fishing received this award for her innovative business model, which promotes ethical and sustainable fishing practices. Katz’s dedication to both her craft and the environment is a shining example of how business success can align with a commitment to positive ecological impact.
“The 2024 Distinguished Entrepreneur Award winners showcase the exceptional spirit of entrepreneurship within Southwest Florida,” said Dorian Zwierewicz, Regional Director of the Florida SBDC at FGCU. “Their innovation, resilience, and dedication to their communities set a benchmark for small business excellence.”
The lively and celebratory awards ceremony was more than a recognition of individual achievements. It served as a platform for business leaders, community members, and aspiring entrepreneurs to network, share ideas, and find inspiration. The event highlighted the vibrant and growing business landscape in Southwest Florida, where small businesses continue to play a crucial role in the region’s economic growth and development.
The Florida SBDC at FGCU remains committed to advancing entrepreneurship and supporting small businesses by providing no-cost consulting, resources, and training to help business owners at every stage of their journey.
For more information about the Florida SBDC at FGCU or the Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, please visit our Distinguished Entrepreneur Event page.
About the Florida SBDC at FGCU
The FSBDC at FGCU offers one-on-one, confidential, no-cost consulting and low-cost workshops for businesses throughout Lee, Collier, Charlotte, Hendry, and Glades counties. The state designates the Florida SBDC Network as Florida’s principal provider of business assistance. The FSBDC at FGCU is a member of the Florida SBDC Network, a statewide service funded in part through cooperative agreements with the U.S. Small Business Administration, Department of Defense, State of Florida, and other private and public partners, and is hosted by Florida Gulf Coast University and nationally accredited by the Association of SBDCs.