Bárbara Rivera Holmes, President and CEO of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce, is commended by U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff for her outstanding leadership and dedication to economic development and the small business community in Southwest Georgia[67fd21d9]. Under Rivera Holmes' guidance, the Albany Area Chamber has implemented innovative initiatives to drive economic growth and support small businesses, including a public-private partnership to assist unemployed rural residents in starting their own businesses. In recognition of her contributions, Ossoff presents Rivera Holmes with an Official U.S. Senate Commendation[67fd21d9].
Meanwhile, the Cobb Chamber, in partnership with the Atlanta Regional Military Affairs Council (ARMAC), is hosting the 71st Annual ARMAC Military Appreciation Luncheon[41add630]. This event aims to honor men and women in uniform and features a panel discussion on leadership and opportunities for support. Colonel Chad Gibson of the United States Air Force moderates the luncheon, which also includes the presentation of the USO Patriot of the Year award[41add630]. The Cobb Chamber, a prominent business advocacy organization in Georgia, is dedicated to strengthening the economy and quality of life in the community. They support various projects, including Cobb Executive Women, Cobb Young Professionals, and Area Councils[41add630].
The Holmes County Chamber of Commerce presented awards to businesses and community leaders in Holmes County[420b2fa8]. Little Cottage Company was recognized as the large business of the year, while Shoemaker Custom Apparel received the small business of the year award. JDM Structures and the Holmes Center for the Arts were also acknowledged for their contributions. These awards highlighted the entrepreneurial spirit, community service, and overall contributions to the county[420b2fa8].
In addition, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce has launched the CO—100: America’s Top 100 Small Businesses awards program[990e862c]. This program aims to honor innovative and impactful small and mid-sized enterprises. Small businesses represent 43.5% of America’s GDP, and the CO—100 aims to recognize their contributions and celebrate entrepreneurship. The exclusive list of 100 standout businesses will be curated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and CO—, focusing on categories such as Growth Accelerators, Community Champions, and Digital Innovators. Honorees will receive benefits such as a one-year paid membership to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, access to industry experts, networking opportunities, and national media exposure. The winners will be celebrated at an exclusive gala event on October 8, 2024, in Washington, D.C. Small businesses with fewer than 250 employees or gross revenues under $20 million in 2022 and 2023 are eligible to apply for the CO—100, with applications open until July 15, 2024[990e862c].