The annual Small Business Week kicked off with the Small Business Bash at Boot Barn Hall and the announcement of the winners of the Small Business Week Awards. This year’s Veteran Small Business Owner of the Year is Von Kessel & Partners of iFLY Indoor Skydiving in Colorado Springs. The facility, which opened in March 2022, is located in the Polaris Pointe retail center on the far north side of Colorado Springs. Founded by three retired Air Force Academy colonels – Omar Bradley, Joel Maynard, and Korky von Kessel – iFLY offers a unique and thrilling experience for adventure-seekers of all ages.
The Family-Owned Small Business of the Year is Behr and Behr of Platinum Group Realtors. Led by owner and founding partner Ed Behr, the team also includes brokers Renee, Brandon, Leah, and Erik Behr. With a focus on providing exceptional customer service and innovative marketing strategies, Behr and Behr has become one of the top real estate teams in Colorado Springs.
The Young Entrepreneur of the Year is Jackie Lujan, founder and CEO of The Lighthouse Early Care and Education. Lujan’s learning-focused day care offers a unique approach to childcare that emphasizes personalized attention and hands-on activities for young children. With a commitment to excellence in both education and safety, Lujan has built a thriving business that has quickly become a leader in its industry.
Zachary Barker was named Small Business Champion of the Year for his work building entrepreneurship ecosystems through his Startup Support Center. A certified economic developer with over 10 years of experience working with small businesses, Barker’s organization provides resources and support to entrepreneurs looking to start or grow their own businesses in Colorado Springs and beyond.
Sevan Stryker was named Small Business Person of the Year for her role as general manager at Bob Penkhus Motor Co., one of Colorado Springs’ most successful auto dealerships. Under Stryker’s leadership, Bob Penkhus Motor Co. has consistently exceeded sales targets while maintaining exceptional customer service levels