TOPEKA - Minority- and women-owned businesses that were honored and celebrated as a part of Kansas’ Annual Minority Enterprise Development (MED) Week. The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development hosted the 39^th Annual Minority and Women Business Awards Gala this evening at The Wild Sage Ranch in Hugoton. The gala recognizes companies and individuals from across the state in 14 categories, including the Governor’s Award of Excellence.

“Kansas’ minority- and women-owned businesses have greatly contributed to the economic development success our state has experienced over the past five years,” Governor Laura Kelly said. “These companies and individuals are crucial to growing our economy and making Kansas the best place to live, work, and raise a family.  These businesses are the backbone of our economy, and we celebrate their efforts and their future success in our state.”

MED Week is celebrated nationally to recognize the more than 9.2 million minority-owned business enterprises that support the U.S. economy and generate more than $1.8 trillion in revenue annually. The Kansas Department of Commerce’s Office of Minority and Women Business Development holds this annual gala to recognize the economic contributions of woman- and minority-owned businesses in communities throughout Kansas.

“It is truly an honor to support such incredible businesses and the talents they bring to our state,” Lieutenant Governor and Secretary of Commerce David Toland said. “The efforts of these businesses and individuals are instrumental in the historic economic growth we continue to see in Kansas, and we are happy to highlight their stories and recognize their amazing work.”

Companies and individuals recognized by category during the awards gala include:

- Business Advocate of the Year - Raquel Arellano, Seward County Development Corporation
- Community Arts Engagement Award - Catherine Bell, Sew Simple Sewing
- Community Impact Award - Brandi Lahey, The Wild Sage Ranch, LLC
- Corporation of the Year - Tammy Martin, Burns & McDonnell
- Entrepreneur of the Year - Troy Brooks, Greatness Vodka
- Family Business Excellence Award - Breanna Bell, Curlology
- Innovation Award - Ashley Bettis, PTMW, Inc.
- Lifetime Achievement Award - Lisa Sisley, New Boston Creative Group, LLC
- Media Achievement Award - Diana and Edward Reyes, Reyes Media Group
- Minority-Owned Business of the Year - Junior Bridgeman, Heartland Coca-Cola
- Women-Owned Business of the Year - Cori Kohlmeier, Advantage Marketing
- Tourism Impact Award - Marcia Rozell, Visit Manhattan
- Young Entrepreneur - Ellie Bowman, Prickly Pear Farm & Home
- Governor’s Award of Excellence - Gabriel Munoz, The Toolbox: Small Business Resource Center

“It’s incredibly rewarding being able to play a part in the future of these businesses,” Office of Minority and Women Business Development Director Christian Hopkins said. “They play such a critical role in our state’s overall success, and I am ecstatic to continue supporting and assisting them in reaching for the stars. Congratulations to all our 2024 winners.”

The Office of Minority and Women Business Development certifies businesses with designations of Minority Business Enterprise (MBE), Woman Business Enterprise (WBE), and Disadvantaged Business Enterprise (DBE). MBEs, WBEs, and DBEs can participate in business education workshops and seminars through the office.

Click here to learn more about the Office of Minority and Women Business Development.