Small Business Person of the Year
Since 1990, the Small Business Person of the Year Award has recognized the outstanding contributions of small business people to the economy and overall progress of the New Braunfels trade area. To be eligible for nomination, the business person must meet the following criteria:
- Must own their business for a minimum of five years;
- Must be a member of the Greater New Braunfels Chamber of Commerce for a minimum of five years;
- Must have been in the same business for a minimum of five years;
- Must exhibit community involvement for a minimum of five years; and
- Must have employed fewer than 50 employees during the past five years.
Selection for the award is based on evidence of an individual’s successful operation of a company and evidence of significant contribution to the community.
Nominations for the 2023 Small Business Person of the Year Award are open until March 3rd. Nominate a small business person today!
2022 Small Business Person of the Year Art Brinkkoeter of Brinkkoeter Transmission & Lube
Members of the Chamber’s Executive and Small Business Week committees surprised Art Brinkkoeter with the announcement that he was named the 2022 Small Business Person of the Year.
Past Small Business Person of the Year Winners:
2021 - Glen Griffin, Griffin Asset Management
2020 - April Ryan and Ashley Landerman, 2tarts Bakery
2019 - J.P. Kesselring, Farmers Insurance Agency of J.P. Kesselring
2018 - Natalie Rougeux, Rougeux & Associates, PLLC
2017 - Justin Meadows, Justin Meadows State Farm
2016 - Nathan Manlove, The AMMO Group
2015 - Soriya Estes, Estes Audiology
2014 - Kent Fischer, Fischer Veterinary Clinic
2013 - Matt Kyle, The Kyle Law Firm
2012 - Ken & Lisa Brucks, Prodigy Learning Center & Child Care Center
2011 - Robin Jeffers, J&R Gymnastics
2010 - Ernie Jergins, Ernesto’s Jewelry
2009 - John Guenzel, Rio Raft & Resort
2008 - Dee and Terry Buck, Buck Pottery
2007 - Judi & Cecil Eager, Gruene Mansion Inn
2006 - Miles Granzin, Granzin BarBQ
2005 - Donna Scheele, Property Management Professionals, Inc.
2004 - Trudy Soechting, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
2003 - Doug & Anne Miller, Miller & Miller Insurance Agency
2002 - Lester Stockhorst, PRINT IT
2001 - Adam & Karen Cork, Color Express
2000 - Don & Lynn Forres, Huisache Grill
1999 - Carol Johnson, Johnson Furniture/Innerworks
1998 - Randy Vanstory, Quick Align
1997 - Pam Kraft, Kraft Mobiletel
1996 - Larry Wenzel, Creative Eyewear by Larry
1995 - Rusty Brandt, ‘Tis The Season
1994 - Kyra Brandt, Comal Flower Shop on the Plaza
1993 - Cash & Dennis Hermes, Centex Office Plus
1992 - Bob Schima, Henne Hardware
1991 - Marian Benson, The Collection
1990 - Mary Jane Nalley, The Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar
