Salute to Small BusinessSince 1986, Commerce Lexington’s Salute to Small Business Awards presented by Forcht Bank has been the premier opportunity to celebrate the incredible impact that small businesses have on our local economy and community. As small businesses continue to drive innovation and fuel growth across the region, this event series puts the spotlight on the best of the best — including one outstanding nonprofit organization.
Mark your calendar for August 11–15, 2025, as we roll out a full week of inspiration, connection, and celebration! You'll meet the 2025 Category Award winners through behind-the-scenes videos, special features, and live event experiences — all leading up to the Salute to Small Business Awards Luncheon on Friday, August 15, from noon to 1:30 p.m. at Central Bank Center in downtown Lexington. |
Presented by:
Photos by Mahan Multimedia.
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2025 Salute to Small Business Award Applications
To be considered for a Salute to Small Business Award, interested businesses must complete an application. All applications are reviewed and scored by a committee of volunteer business leaders from across the region, ensuring a fair and thorough evaluation process. If you have questions about the award process or application, please contact Angela Carlos, Director of Events and Programs, here.
Why You Should Apply for a Salute to Small Business Award:
Crinda Francke, president and CEO of ExecuTrain, last year’s Small Business of the Year, said, “Winning the Commerce Lexington Small Business of the Year Award is an incredible honor that validates the dedication and heart we've put into our business. Beyond the recognition, it has significantly boosted our visibility in the community, opening doors to new opportunities and helping us grow in ways we hadn’t imagined. This award is a reminder of the power of perseverance—and the importance of community in building something meaningful."
2025 SALUTE TO SMALL BUSINESS SPONSORS
PRESENTED BY:
PLATINUM SPONSOR:
VIDEO SPONSOR:
Lamar Advertising
MEDIA PARTNER:
WLEX-TV
VIDEO PRODUCER:
Wrigley Media Group
GOLD SPONSORS:
Central Bank & Trust Co.
Highbridge Springs Water
H-L Media (Lexington Herald-Leader & Kentucky.com)
Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance
LM Communications
Traditional Bank
TravelHost of the Bluegrass
SILVER SPONSORS:
C-Forward
Electronic Business Machines
WesBanco
WUKY 91.3FM
SMALL BUSINESS SPONSORS:
British Swim School of North Lexington
Churchill McGee
Hubbard Mechanical
RSR Benefits
Lamar Advertising
MEDIA PARTNER:
WLEX-TV
VIDEO PRODUCER:
Wrigley Media Group
GOLD SPONSORS:
Central Bank & Trust Co.
Highbridge Springs Water
H-L Media (Lexington Herald-Leader & Kentucky.com)
Kentucky Employers' Mutual Insurance
LM Communications
Traditional Bank
TravelHost of the Bluegrass
SILVER SPONSORS:
C-Forward
Electronic Business Machines
WesBanco
WUKY 91.3FM
SMALL BUSINESS SPONSORS:
British Swim School of North Lexington
Churchill McGee
Hubbard Mechanical
RSR Benefits
2024 Small Business of the Year:
At the 2024 Salute to Small Business Awards Luncheon presented by Forcht Bank, ExecuTrain was honored as Commerce Lexington’s 2024 Small Business of the Year, following their recognition in the Business Success Award category.
Founded in 1994, ExecuTrain has been a pioneer in professional training, helping over 12 million people across a wide range of industries sharpen their skills and elevate their careers. Under the leadership of President & CEO Crinda Francke, ExecuTrain has evolved into a national powerhouse, serving clients across the U.S. and Mexico with customized learning solutions, project staffing, and curriculum design. |
Steve Byars, Commerce Lexington 2024 Board Chair (left), Crinda Francke, ExecuTrain President & CEO (middle), Houston Hall, Lexington Market President, Forcht Bank (right).
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