We now continue to spotlight the finalists for the Lima Allen County Chamber of Commerce's Small Business of the Year Gala. Tonight, we take a look at the Athena Leadership Award, sponsored by Lima Chevrolet Cadillac.

Tonight we take a look at the 2024 Woman-Owned Business of the Year Award sponsored by Huntington National Bank.

The conference room was packed as sponsors for the seven awards revealed the top three finalists. The chamber says it is important to recognize those in the business community who have gone above and beyond to keep small businesses alive in the Lima-Allen County region.

The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce hosted their 21st Annual Awards Gala Tuesday evening announcing this year's award recipients. On Tuesday night, six individuals, businesses, and organizations were honored.

The theme for the event this year was “Havana Nights”, with guests dressed in brightly colored or floral print attire while enjoying food and taking in music from Chuck Summers. The Lima raised international award winning photographer Michael Ayers was the keynote speaker for the event.

They are the backbone of the nation's economy and make up 99.6% of Ohio's businesses according to the U.S. Small Business Administration. Small business also makes up 84% of the membership of the Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce. Monday, the Chamber announced the finalists for their 17th annual Gala Awards where they recognize area small businesses in several different categories. There were a number of new businesses that were nominated this year reflecting the growing business base in the area.

It’s small business which makes the economy and a community work.