FROM THE CEO Heather Kasten
“We honor the contributions of companies of all sizes, started by individuals with unique backgrounds who have one thing in common – being the best at what they do; employing best practices; creating an inspiring company culture; and making time for their workforce to give back in the community. These businesses are setting the bar high and making a huge impact in Sarasota.”
Outstanding Businesses Make Sarasota Stand Out Ranked one of the best small cities to start a business, Sarasota is booming and making a big impression. With miles of pristine beaches, low taxes, convenient flights, and an average temperature of 72 degrees year-round, every day feels like vacation. As such a great location for pleasure and conducting business, Sarasota is making a mark locally and across the country as the place to call home for work or play. Thanks to a thriving business community, the Sarasota local economy continues to grow beyond expectations. Similarly, organizations in the community are going beyond the norm to foster Sarasota’s great national reputation. Sarasota is an outstanding city because of countless contributions by trailblazing entrepreneurs – leaders who demonstrate courage and fortitude, many putting their own capital and net worth on the line to fulfill their dream. These businesses meet our community’s needs for a vast array of goods and services and are one of the largest contributors to private sector job growth regionally and across the country. Over 1,200 businesses are members of the Sarasota Chamber of Commerce employing over 60,000 people. The cumulative impact of these employers in the Chamber and community is immense. And while significant in the number of businesses, 90% have fewer than 50 employees. For these and many other reasons, it is fitting that we honor extraordinary entrepreneurs, and salute businesses fueling this economy. Once a year, we honor the contributions of companies of all sizes, started by individuals with unique backgrounds who have one thing in common – being the best at what they do; employing best practices; creating an inspiring company culture; and making time for their workforce to give back in the community. These businesses are setting the bar high and making a huge impact in Sarasota. Thank YOU for being a part of what makes Sarasota so great. You, our members, are why Sarasota stands out.
Heather Kasten President/CEO 2
BRIDGE •
JULY 2022 • GREATER SARASOTA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE MEMBER MAGAZINE
