ARLINGTON, TX – August 5, 2024 – The Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Small Business of the Year Awards: for-profit, minority-owned, veteran-owned, woman-owned, nonprofit and overall small business of the year, the top award given to the highest scoring submission. Recipients will be honored at the 19th Annual State of the City Address on Wednesday, October 30.
“Arlington is home to thousands of businesses, and we could not be more proud of our incredible 2024 recipients,” Michael Jacobson, President & CEO of the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, said. “The success of a small business is defined by more than sales numbers and profits; it’s about the lives impacted in the community. This year’s recipients for our Small Business Awards showcase enormous passion for their work, a fierce determination to succeed and a deep devotion to the greater Arlington community.”
OVERALL SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR RECIPIENT: Prince Lebanese Grill
Prince Lebanese Grill is a family-owned & operated Lebanese/Mediterranean restaurant in Arlington for over three and a half decades. Everyday they are blessed with the opportunity to introduce Arlington locals to their culture and hospitality through their food. Whether it’s grandma’s generational hummus recipe or Prince’s Famous Shawarma, food is an expression of love that brings people together.
Prince was founded with a focus on community engagement by supporting organizations/initiatives including Arlington Charities, Arlington Police Foundation, Leadership Arlington and Chef Practicum Program at Dan Dipert Career Tech Center. Additionally, they support the Travel & Sports Legacy Foundation, Francis Kobty Hospitality Scholarship, TCC Foundation, AISD Food & Nutrition Services, Arlington Conventions & Visitors Bureau, and have partnerships with the Texas Rangers, UT Athletics, Arlington Renegades and the Dallas Cowboys.
Prince wants to thank the Greater Arlington Chamber of Commerce, “It’s a blessing to be nominated and recognized along with such great small businesses.”
FOR-PROFIT RECIPIENT: Burnett’s Staffing
Founded in Arlington in 1966, Burnett’s Staffing is a family owned and operated commercial staffing agency dedicated to serving the Arlington, Dallas and Fort Worth markets. Their recruiting expertise spans a variety of sectors, including administrative, accounting, marketing, human resources and customer service positions. Burnett’s mission is to grow companies by quickly connecting them with highly qualified and readily available talent. Over 90% of their placements involve establishing people in full-time jobs, demonstrating their commitment to helping job seekers and employers alike. Their longevity and experience, combined with an extensive network and personalized approach, allows Burnett’s to remain a trusted partner in Arlington, Dallas and Fort Worth. Burnett’s Staffing’s commitment will forever be devoted to making a difference in the life of another!
NONPROFIT RECIPIENTS: Arlington Museum of Art
In 1952, the Arlington Art Association was founded by civic leaders with the guidance of Howard and Arista Joyner, and in October of 1974, the Arlington Art Association incorporated itself as the Arlington Museum of Art (AMA). This Fall, they will begin to celebrate our 50th anniversary of serving the Arlington and broader North Texas Community. The AMA provides access to a wide variety of art, art education and cultural enrichment for the community. They offer world class exhibits, local and emerging artist exhibits and a variety of educational experiences for students of all ages. The work of AMA supports the goals of Arlington to serve as a cultural tourist destination for out-of-town visitors, helping promote economic development by keeping visitors in town longer to support local businesses.
VETERAN-OWNED RECIPIENT: JAWS Junk and Waste Removal
Since its inception, JAWS – Junk and Waste Solutions has been at the forefront of efficient and eco-friendly waste management. Spearheaded by industry leader and Marine Corps veteran, Bryant Griffith, JAWS is committed to providing top-notch junk removal and waste management solutions tailored to both residential and commercial clients. With a focus on sustainability, JAWS prioritizes recycling and responsible disposal practices, ensuring minimal environmental impact. The company’s comprehensive services include everything from bulk trash removal to demolition and dumpster rentals, all executed with unparalleled professionalism and customer care. Beyond their core operations, JAWS actively participates in community clean-up initiatives and educational programs, fostering a cleaner and greener future for the Greater Arlington area and surrounding communities.
WOMAN-OWNED RECIPIENTS: Inspirations Fork & Table
Located in Downtown Arlington, Inspirations Fork & Table is a woman-owned bistro and full-service catering company where the Toledo family combines Southern cuisine with a contemporary twist. Passionate in their commitment to service, this vibrant company offers lunches, dinners, private dining and meals-to-go with exceptional flavors and personalized service. Beyond culinary expertise, Kristene and family are known for generosity and community focus. They donate 100% of proceeds from designated lunches to nonprofits like Mission Arlington and the National Medal of Honor Museum. They partner with Hope is Alive on special events and collaborate with the Arlington Museum of Art. Over the past six years, they’ve supported schools and nonprofits with gift cards and meals. They volunteer with the Miracle League, engage with students through the AISD Dan Dipert Culinary Arts Program, and distribute hot meals to the homeless. Enjoy a fabulous meal or catered event from this extraordinary woman-owned small business!
MINORITY-OWNED RECIPIENTS: Golf Center of Arlington
The Golf Center of Arlington, located in North Arlington, is an award-winning facility with advanced technologies such as Toptracer ball tracking, Powertee automated ball teeing and Trackman. It also offers a comprehensive golf experience with a golf academy, a 36-hole mini-golf course, an event room and a bar featuring over 50 local craft beers. The event room and bar provide the perfect setting for social gatherings and special events. The Golf Center of Arlington caters to families, casual players and serious golfers, ensuring a welcoming and enjoyable experience. Their high-tech amenities offer guests instant and accurate ball flight data, target proximity information, and virtual games to enhance their skills. They provide high-quality practice balls, covered bays with turf-like mats and a pristine grass-hitting area. Their 36-hole mini-golf course offers fun and challenge, ideal for family outings and birthday parties. Open to the public seven days a week, rain or shine, our range is a welcoming destination for the entire community. Whether you seek to improve your game, enjoy a day out with family and friends, or host an event, the Golf Center of Arlington meets your needs and fosters a love for golf in the DFW area. Larissa and Mauricio Galante have owned the Golf Center of Arlington for the past ten years and have significantly contributed to various local organizations and are very involved in the Arlington community.
CRITERIA
The Small Business Awards process is rigorous. Nominated businesses and organizations complete an extensive application including recommendation letters from the community. The Chamber’s criteria for selection as a Small Businesses of the Year include growth, relevant innovation and contributions to furthering the Chamber’s Mission “Together, We Champion Economic and Community Prosperity.” A group of distinguished business leaders in the greater Arlington area examine all completed applications to determine the winners each year.