2019 25 Under 25

.

S E C A .

L R P E O G G G I B K N I TH 1 8 TH A N N U A L 25 UNDER 25 AWARDS

HONORING OUTSTANDING KC—AREA SMALL BUSINESSES

PRESENTED BY THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS MEDIA Saturday, Feb. 23, 2019 Downtown Marriott—Muehlebach Tower

PRESENTED BY

STAR SPONSOR

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : CONGRATULATIONS

WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE YOU JOIN US AS ONE OF KANSAS CITY'S 25 UNDER 25 HONOREES. KEEP YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL VISION SHARP.

CLASS OF 2012

CLASS OF 2011

CLASS OF 2006

WE WANT TO BE THE BANK BEHIND THE LOAN BEHIND THE NEXT 25 UNDER 25 HONOREE. The bank built on entrepreneurial spirit congratulates bank customer Midwest Comfort Homes as well as all the honorees this year on this year’s 25 Under 25 ®.

MEMBER FDIC bankbv.com 2 : : ithinkbigger.com

COMMUNITY | PHILANTHROPY | ENTREPRENEURSHIP

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : THE BIGGER PICTURE

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE CLASS OF 2019

I

If you’re looking for impressive

companies in this year’s class have just

companies, look no further.

moved into new, larger headquarters to

This edition celebrates the 18th class

accommodate their growing businesses. One honoree, Mi Rancho Tequila, recently signed

of 25 Under 25 Small Business Award

an international distribution agreement.

honorees. Thinking Bigger Business Media has now honored 450 outstanding

The theme for this year’s celebration is “Go

Kansas City-area businesses that, at

Places. Think Bigger.” We have no doubt that we

the time of their recognition, had 25 or fewer

will see these companies take off in the future!

employees. Many alumni have grown beyond

Please join us at the 25 Under 25 gala at 6 p.m. Feb.

that threshold.

23 at the Downtown Marriott’s Muehlebach Tower to

Small businesses are an economic engine, and the

celebrate the award winners and small business. Learn

2019 honorees are just getting revved up. Some of the

more at 25Under25.com.

Editor & Managing Director // kbean@ithinkbigger.com

2019 ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD HONOREE 04 Burns & McDonnell The company's commitment to supplier diversity grows the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kansas City and beyond.

PANEL OF JUDGES 04 Meet the Judges Six of the city’s leading small business advocates selected this year’s honorees.

25 UNDER 25 HONOREES

08

Chief of Staff

13

MSP Consulting

08

Digital Maelstrom

13

My Child Advocate

09

e2E

14

OneHQ

09

Fresh Approach Cleaning Professionals

14

Otto Service

14

Porter Teleo

15

RedesignKC

15

The Running Well Store

16

Shamerrific Shine

16

Smith Mohlman LLC

17

TaxesPlus Inc.

17

Tea-Biotics

18

Umzuzu

10

HMC Performance Coatings

10

IntegriShield

11

KC Wine Co

11

Love Letters

12

Mi Rancho Tequila

07

Advantage Pressure Pro

12

Midwest Comfort Homes

07

Bulldog

12

Moxi Events

25 Under 25 Awards : : 3

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD

Burns & McDonnell contributes significant resources to its supplier diversity program, which helps small businesses grow as they work with the company on big projects.

(Photo courtesy of Bryan Fairbanks // Burns & McDonnell)

Building Up Small Businesses BURNS & MCDONNELL’S COMMITMENT TO SUPPLIER DIVERSITY GROWS THE ENTREPRENEURIAL ECOSYSTEM IN KANSAS CITY AND BEYOND.

T

The recipient of this year’s 25 Under 25 Entrepreneurial Legacy Award winner, Burns & McDonnell, doesn’t just talk the talk when it comes to diversifying Kansas City’s small business ecosystem.

To provide equity for all entrepreneurs, the architecture, engineering and construction firm created a supplier diversity program to work one-on-one with small and diverse businesses.

It provides opportunities for growth to minority-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned and LGBTQowned businesses.

FOCUS ON DIVERSITY No one works more closely with this 4 : : ithinkbigger.com

endeavor than Michelle Word, Burns & McDonnell’s director of business diversity.

Word, who has headed the supplier diversity program since its introduction in 2004, said that the support of the company’s leadership and other employee-owners has been critical to the program’s success.

“We recognized that we weren’t doing enough in the community with diverse businesses, so that need – as well as an opportunity – was there,” Word said.

Word’s work with the supplier diversity initiative includes working internally with project managers in diversifying their project subcontractors as well as providing executive education for minority business owners.

Burns & McDonnell hosts the annual Community of Inclusion Awards to

highlight outstanding small and diverse teaming partners who helped make its projects successful. It also sponsors its minority business partners to attend executive education classes offered by the Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College. Neither incentive existed in the company before the supplier diversity program, Word said.

Despite Burns & McDonnell’s impressive strides over the past 15 years, Word says her work is far from finished.

“We have come a long way, but we know that we still have a long way to go,” she said.

Some of the businesses that have worked most closely with Burns & McDonnell’s supplier diversity program give a clear picture of how the company’s program grows the small business ecosystem in Kansas City.

DUBOIS CONSULTANTS INC.

contracting for commercial companies

For Ajamu Webster, CEO and founder

and government entities.

of DuBois Consultants, Burns & McDonnell’s supplier diversity initiative was “life-changing.”

DuBois Consultants, a civil and structural engineering firm that specializes in water infrastructure services, has partnered with Burns & McDonnell since Webster started his business in 1988.

Webster has worked with the supplier diversity program throughout its 15-year lifespan.

In 2015, Burns & McDonnell sponsored Webster to attend the Tuck business program at Dartmouth College, one of the leading business programs in the U.S. “It was the best business education I’ve ever received,” Webster said. “Burns &

For President and COO Nilson Goes, his company’s 5-year involvement with the program has been “invaluable.”

“Michelle (Word) has been instrumental in helping introduce IEC to the right people at Burns & McDonnell, and to

Bigger Business Media presents the Entrepreneurial Legacy Award to an

large multinational company,” Goes said.

contribution to the entrepreneurial

“By working together on various projects

community. In recognition of

throughout the country, we’ve been able to earn our partnership and develop trust and relationships.”

Goes added that Burns & McDonnell’s civic engagement with its small business partners, as well as Word’s hard work

Burns & McDonnell’s service and example, Thinking Bigger Business Media is honored to present them with the 2019 Entrepreneurial Legacy Award.

in supplier diversity, sets the business far apart from other large companies in Kansas City.

“There’s a direct economic benefit in having people of different backgrounds

the operation of my firm and the delivery

and experiences working together—

of my services.”

ranging from creative problem solving to communication benefits and greater flexibility,” Goes said.

women-owned businesses and teaches

“Supporting underrepresented and

its students technical, managerial and

diverse businesses is crucial for overall

accounting skills.

economic growth, more opportunities for

Supplier diversity is vital to the health

Awards Dinner and Gala, Thinking

individual who has made a lasting

a business leader so that I could improve

specializes in growing minority- and

Every year at the 25 Under 25

align our competencies to the needs of a

McDonnell saw enough to invest in me as

The one-week intensive program

ABOUT THE AWARD

residents and a better quality of life.”

Burns & McDonnell’s supplier diversity initiative has allowed ACS to expand its presence nationwide.

“The program has given us the opportunity to be a national company, and it’s given us greater access outside the Kansas City area,” Taylor said.

Taylor added that Supplier Diversity programs like Burns & McDonnell’s allow

and well-being of Kansas City’s small

A CLEAN SLATE LLC

women- and minority-owned businesses

business community “from a business

Carol Taylor, president and founder of

to attain access to larger projects

sense, a social sense and a community

A Clean Slate LLC, which specializes

and opportunities.

responsibility,” Webster said.

in construction and final cleaning, has

INFINITE ENERGY CONSTRUCTION

five years.

worked alongside Burns & McDonnell for

“Having access is key,” Taylor said.

“That’s what every business wants, whether you’re large or small. I think

Infinite Energy Construction, another

“It’s opened up doors for us into larger

overall the program gives people access

supplier diversity participant, specializes

projects,” she said. “It’s helped us

to opportunities they otherwise may not

in electrical contracting and general

scale up.”

have access to.”

25 Under 25 Awards : : 5

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : PANEL OF JUDGES

Katheigh Hull Degen CO-OWNER ::

twin financial inc

With more than 30 years of financial services experience, Katheigh Hull Degen has helped hundreds of clients discover their potential to build wealth, create security and live their dreams.

With her twin sister, Raleigh, Degen founded Twin Financial in 1988. Their complementary expertise in asset protection (Katheigh) and wealth accumulation (Raleigh) helps ensure clients always receive a comprehensive view of their financial status.

Daniel Kjergaard, CPA LEAD MANAGING DIRECTOR ::

cbiz mhm llc

Christal E. Watson is deputy chief of staff for the Unified Government of Kansas City, Kan., and Wyandotte County.

Kjergaard provides tax and consulting services for primarily small to mediumsized clients in a variety of industries.

Kjergaard serves on boards and is a member of several community service agencies and professional organizations.

Jeff Schackelford

Previously, she was CEO of the Heartland Black Chamber of Commerce.

Under her leadership, Heartland was the fastest growing minority chamber in the Midwest.

Watson has served in leadership roles with companies such as Sprint, United Way, Kansas City, Kansas Public Schools and Truman Medical Centers.

EXECUTIVE digital sandbox kc

The program has funded 108

PRESIDENT AND

development projects

KANSAS CITY

with more than $1.9

MARKET

million in funding. It has

MANAGER ::

6 : : ithinkbigger.com

heartland

director in CBIZ’s Kansas City office.

SENIOR VICE

Alan Farris is senior vice president and Kansas City market manager for Landmark National Bank, where he coordinates all aspects of commercial banking. Farris sits on the board of the Center Education Foundation, which helps to support the teachers and students of the Center School District, his alma mater, and has served on numerous civic and business boards.

CEO ::

black chamber of commerce

Alan Far ris

bank

PRESIDENT AND

Daniel Kjergaard serves as a managing

DIRECTOR ::

landmark national

CHRISTAL WATSON

assisted in securing more than $50.8 million in follow-on investments and created nearly 580 new Kansas City area jobs.

Jeff Shackelford’s professional background blends a rare combination of Fortune 100 experience with entrepreneurial, startup and early-stage ventures, including a successful track record in capital fundraising of more than $500 million.

Michelle Word DIRECTOR OF BUSINESS DIVERSITY :: burns

&

mcdonnell

Michelle Word is manager of supplier diversity for Burns & McDonnell. She is responsible for assisting in sourcing and utilizing diverse businesses with expertise in performing the scopes of work necessary to support specific projects.

Word actively participates in several organizations with a goal to increase business development opportunities between majority and diverse businesses, such as area chambers, the Minority Contractors Association and the Mountain Plains Minority Business Development Council, among others.

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

Advantage PressurePro RHITA ZAROOR AND

BULLDOG PROFESSIONAL INSPECTION SERVICES

JASON ZAROOR

STEVE RODRIGUEZ

There was more bad luck

harrisonville

raymore

in store: Due to sudden

founded

11

:: 1991

employees

founded

3

up with bills and provide for his family.

downsizing, Rodriguez was

:: 2005

unexpectedly fired.

employees

pressurepro.us

bulldoginspect.com

It was in this desperate moment that

When a truck driver showed Phillip Zaroor an idea—sketched on a napkin—for a tire-pressure monitoring system, Zaroor was convinced it was a good one.

When Steve Rodriguez started his

Rodriguez focused his energy solely on

company in 2005, he was new to Kansas

Bulldog and delivering quality service

City and had no home inspection

to Kansas City home buyers rather than

knowledge. But with a booming real

things outside his control like market

estate market and a strong hunch,

fluctuations and his competition.

Zaroor bought the trucker’s idea, patented it and founded Advantage Enterprises in 1992.

The product, which has evolved since the original model, monitors tire pressure on commercial trucks, recreational vehicles and other heavyduty vehicles.

Rodriguez began the process of crafting

Since the founder’s passing in 2016, the Zaroor family continues to run and expand the company, led by Phillip’s wife, Rhita, and son Jason, who is CEO. Four of Jason’s siblings also work for the company.

and building a business.

he enlisted input from clients and real

Nearly 10,000 inspections later,

estate agents on what they wanted in a

Rodriguez has not only turned Bulldog

home inspection company. This estab-

Professional Inspection Services into the

lished the core of Bulldog’s culture.

highest-rated home inspection company in Kansas City, but he's helped thousands of local families along the way.

But things haven't always been easy.

When the economy crashed in 2008, it almost took Bulldog and its clientele with it. Rodriguez took another job and sidelined his home inspections to keep

“From day one, PressurePro has been disruptive,” said Vanessa Hargrave, Phillip’s daughter and COO. “Today, we're working on being disruptive again to the entire concept of tire maintenance, working to provide the information and analysis tools needed to move tire maintenance from reactive to predictive.”

“OUR TEAM MIGHT BE 'SMALL' BY SOME STANDARDS, BUT WE'RE MIGHTY, AND WE'RE ABLE TO MOVE FAST AND REMAIN INNOVATIVE.”

In the process of rebuilding his company,

“By the end, I'd come to understand a simple yet powerful concept: Home inspections are more about people than houses," Rodriguez said.

“HOME INSPECTIONS ARE MORE ABOUT PEOPLE THAN HOUSES.”

WE Class of 2007

Nomination Sponsor

BIGGER BUSINESS

®

Branding

Design

Digital

25 Under 25 Awards : : 7

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

CHIEF OF STAFF

Digital Maelstrom

JESSICA UNDERWOOD

JEFF STICE-HALL,

our customers.”

kansas city, mo.

KRISTOPHER STICE-HALL,

After a strong year, “we

:: 2011

MICHAEL HUSTON-LOWRY

next intend to continue

founded

6

employees

chiefofstaffkc.com

Founded in 2011 by Jessica Underwood, Chief of Staff is a womanowned and WBE-certified personnel recruitment firm that provides job placement options for businesses such as temporary, temp-to-hire and permanent placements.

“Our mission isn’t only to match the credentials of our applicants with client job requirements,” Underwood said. “We also focus on finding the right

kansas city, mo. founded

5

build ongoing trust with

'putting the gas pedal

:: 2006

down' in order to accelerate

employees

digitalmaelstrom.net

IT consultancy Digital Maelstrom advises clients on custom software, IT operations, IT security and strategy.

the growth patterns of 2018,” Kristopher said. “We’ve learned how planning, budgeting and execution has to be incorporated into every fiber of the company. “

Founded by Jeff Stice-Hall, the company grew slowly at first but was able to tackle more and bigger projects by bringing on co-owners Michael HustonLowery and Kristopher Stice-Hall. Now with five employees, the company’s 2018

“IT IS NOT UNUSUAL FOR US TO HEAR FROM A POTENTIAL CUSTOMER DURING

revenue and profit nearly doubled that

OUR SALES PROCESS

of 2017.

ABOUT HOW BADLY

decreasing turnover for clients.”

The company’s goal is to guide

THEY'VE BEEN

The Chief of Staff team meets with

customers through complex issues.

BURNED BY OTHER

hiring managers before interviewing

“We enthusiastically dig in to find

candidates face-to-face.

solutions to their problems, offer

WHO OFTEN SHOVE

Chief of Staff has helped more than 100

targeted advice regarding their toughest

ILL-FITTING PATH

Kansas City businesses. Underwood

challenges, and stand ready to step in

RATHER THAN TAKE

hopes to expand her team’s work by

whenever they need us,” said Kristopher

THE TIME TO FIND THE

growing KC’s entrepreneurial community.

Stice-Hall. “In this way, we

RIGHT ONE.”

people for the company’s current culture, maximizing tenure for candidates and

TECH COMPANIES, THEM ONTO AN

“One of our goals is to assist entrepreneurs and small businesses as they navigate through their initial years of business,” she said. “Having been

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE 2019 25 UNDER 25 ADVISORY BOARD

through this process before, we know

J E A N I E B R E W S T E R // C E R T I F Y N O W. B I Z

how important it is to have the right

E R I C A B R U N E // L E V E R 1

team by your side.”

J OYC E C H R I S TA N I O // S P R I N T K AT H Y P E T E R S O N // H E A R T L A N D S E AT I N G , I N C .

“WE ENJOY CONNECTING PEOPLE; BUILDING STRONG, SOLID RELATIONSHIPS; AND BEING A CHANGE AGENT FOR OUR CLIENTS.” 8 : : ithinkbigger.com

K E L LY S C A N LO N // I N T E R R O B A N G S O L U T I O N S J O E VA L E N C I A N O // C O R E F I R S T B A N K & T R U S T M I C H E L L E W O R D // B U R N S & M C D O N N E L L M I K E W R E N N // A F F I N I T Y W O R L D W I D E

KC BUSINESSES THINKING BIGGER

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

e2E llc NANCY MCCULLOUGH kansas city, mo.

13.5

employees

founded::

2013

e2ekc.com

Nancy McCullough

Fresh Approach Cleaning Professionals SHARON AUCK

providing service. to me to have my own

employees

founded::

and asked her to continue “It had never occurred

lenexa

10

biggest client approached her

business,” said Auck, owner

1988

of Fresh Approach Cleaning

freshapproach.solutions

Professionals LLC. “That first

Sharon Auck grew up in an environment

contract was pretty big. That

in which the aspirations of women

when clients don't need

was my big break.

weren’t much of a consideration.

her anymore. After all,

I lived off that money, invested back

Women, she said, were defined by the

into my company and slowly got my

men in their lives.

name out there.”

grow is her goal.

That turned out to be true for Auck — but

Auck participated in Goldman Sachs’

"What's common among 95 percent of

probably not in the way people expected.

10,000 Small Businesses program in

our clients is that they have some plan

Auck said she was working dead-end jobs

2014 and ScaleUP! KC in 2015. She said

for growth," said McCullough, owner

in her 20s before she helped a man set

of e2E LLC. "We feel like there's not

up a new cleaning company. Auck did the

another business doing what we do. Our

bookkeeping, ordered supplies, ran the

goal is to help them grow and help them

crews and more.

get there."

“I did all of it,” she said. “I had to teach

considers it a success

helping small businesses

E2E offers CFO, accounting and HR services to small businesses. E2E has grown more than 40 percent in each of the past three years.

myself. I didn’t have a college degree.”

But Auck didn’t approve of the way the owner conducted business, and she quit after less than a year. The company’s

those experiences provided valuable mentoring and helped make her business more efficient. She said 2018 was her company’s best year yet with 25 percent growth.

“I DON’T WANT A REVOLVING DOOR. I WANT TO DEVELOP RELATIONSHIPS WITH BOTH CLIENTS AND EMPLOYEES.”

McCullough spent most of her career in controller and CFO roles before branching out on her own.

"I always thought of myself as a great

WE

support person but never thought of myself as enough of a risk taker to do my own thing," she said.

"IN OUR OWN BUSINESS PURCHASES, WE PRIORITIZE BUYING FROM SMALL

Class of 2007

Nomination Sponsor

BUSINESS OWNERS

®

Branding

Design

Digital

BUSINESSES IN THE COMMUNITIES WE SERVE.” 25 Under 25 Awards : : 9

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

HMC PERFORMANCE COATINGS LLC

service/repair, retail and installation services.

readied the business for new clients.

While HMC’s rapid growth rates and

AMIE BRISTOL

So in the spring of 2014, HMC

accomplishments are impressive, Bristol

tonganoxie

strategically focused its resources on

is not yet satisfied. The company’s

rebranding itself as a prime source

commitment to improving itself is just

for powder-coating services in

one more thing that sets HMC apart.

founded

23

:: 2013

employees

hmcperformancecoatings.com

Northeast Kansas.

HMC Performance Coatings is a prime

“The most critical decision for an

stay tenacious and not let any setback

example of a good idea not going quite

entrepreneur is to know when to stay the

derail our vision,” Bristol said. “While

as planned.

course or change direction,” co-founder

persistent entrepreneurs tend to think

Amie Bristol said. “In fact, the HMC

they are good enough, the tenacious

story would have had a much different

know they need to find ways to improve.”

In July 2013, HMC opened its doors as a customization shop for all-terrain and utility

ending had we not made the critical

vehicles under the name of

decision to pivot.”

Hobby Monster Customs LLC.

The decision paid off—HMC’s gross

“The trick to obtaining our goal is to

far outstripped that for the company’s

HMC’s “intense improvement focus” has

“THE KEY TO HMC’S SUCCESS IS BUILDING A TEAM OF GREAT PEOPLE WHO BELIEVE IN OUR VISION OF TAKING CARE OF PEOPLE — CLIENTS AND TEAM MEMBERS ALIKE.”

INTEGRISHIELD

rather than the perpetrators taking the

It wasn’t easy, though—the technology

fall. IntegriShield was created to protect

itself didn’t exist before IntegriShield’s

companies’ reputations and brand

inception, and it must keep up with bad

recognition on the internet.

actors and new and emerging “black hat”

However, in a matter of months, demand for HMC’s in-house powder-coating finishes

GAYLA HUBER kansas city, mo. founded

13

:: 2012

employees

integrishield.com

revenue has expanded at a rate of at least 30 percent a year. After streamlining its processes in 2018,

“It was clear a solution was needed,” Gayla Huber, President said. The

practices “IntegriShield was the true pioneer of compliance monitoring and remediation technology,” Gregory Gragg,

When Blue Chair LLC

company uses a platform called Integris,

launched IntegriShield

which scours the internet for violations,

the IntegriShield’s reach, the company

in 2012, it was to protect

misstatements, falsehoods or errors.

must evolve its capabilities to stop

businesses from fraudulent

IntegriShield then works with clients

violators in their tracks.”

and exploitative forces on

to remediate these instances before

the Internet.

they garner the attention of state and

Due to illicit activities in

federal consumer protection agencies.

all corners of the web ,

“IntegriShield’s work has only become

many businesses have been

more and more topical with the rapid

slapped with increasingly stringent regulations that target online marketing and advertising claims, with businesses 10 : : ithinkbigger.com

growth of the internet,” Huber explained.

“Never have we as consumers been in greater need of protection than we are today.”

CEO said. “As fraudsters learn to evade

“THE INTEGRISHIELD PHILOSOPHY IS EACH BRAND OR COMPANY IS UNIQUE; EACH ONE COMES WITH DIFFERENT OBJECTIVES AND NEEDS. IT IS INTEGRISHIELD’S RESPONSIBILITY TO CREATE CUSTOM SOLUTIONS THAT MATCH THOSE NEEDS.”

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

KC WINE CO. KIRK BERGGREN overland park founded

5

:: 2014

LOVE LETTERS LLC LEANN CRUCE

Love Letters now has a storefront in

kansas city, mo.

Kansas City’s West Bottoms and

founded

3

employees

opened an online boutique.

several thousands of followers on

:: 2013

social media.

employees

kcwineco.com

shoploveletters.com

At KC Wine Co.’s farm winery, you can get

According to the Love Letters formula,

a full country vineyard experience right

switched over to single

you only need three things to start a

ownership, so Cruce

successful business in KC: big love

runs the shop herself

here in town.

Founded in 2014 by Kirk

The business recently

for the city, passion and a whole lot

Berggren, KC Wine Co.

of coffee.

features a “country-chic”

Maybe that’s not quite all you need, but

tasting room inside a

it certainly was enough to get the ball

renovated Quonset hut,

rolling for LeAnn Cruce. She and a friend

which incorporates handmilled cedar to resemble the inside of a wine barrel.

now along with her three employees.

started Love Letters in 2013 to offer Kansas City-themed merchandise for

“We believe the future of Love Letters is bright,” Cruce said. “We’re trying to find that balance of growth and being able to keep up with that growth.”

women in the 25 to 55 age range.

The success of Love Letters has

Surrounded by vines and a five-acre

While the company started out as a

continued, with year-over-year sales

pond, customers can listen to local

side business to sell accessories and

improving 20 percent in 2018. It has

musicians while enjoying hand-crafted

home goods, the duo quickly learned

hired a marketing agency and added

wine, hard cider, sangria or peach bellini

that Kansas City T-shirts were a hot

new products to the brand—such as

wine slushes.

commodity. They adjusted their business

cardigans, jackets and jewelry—to keep

The company recently began selling

plan accordingly, and two years later

up with increasing demand.

“Vine-Coolers,” packaged bellini and sangria slushes that make portability easy for its customers.

“Product development has established KC Wine Co. as a revolutionary pioneer in

“WE HAVE PRIDE IN THE HARDWORKING, ALL-FEMALE TEAM THAT KEEPS THIS COMPANY RUNNING EVERY DAY. WE HAVE PRIDE IN LOOKING BACK AT ALL WE'VE ACCOMPLISHED IN THE FIVE YEARS WE'VE BEEN IN BUSINESS.”

the wine industry,” Berggren said.

WE

KC Wine Co. currently staffs five fulltime employees, and after a year of growth and renovations, Berggren plans to expand regional distribution this year

®

and to continue providing locals with a destination winery close to home.

“OUR GOAL IS TO BUILD AN ORIGINAL, LAID-BACK RETREAT THAT WELCOMES WHAT WE CALL THE ‘EVERYDAY SOMMELIER.’”

Class of 2007

Nomination Sponsor

SMALL BUSINESS

Branding

Design

Digital

25 Under 25 Awards : : 11

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

MI RANCHO TEQUILA

Midwest Comfort Homes

MICHAEL DEAN

TRAVIS THONEN

kansas city, kan.

blue springs

founded

4

:: 2010

employees

founded

6

:: 2010

employees

miranchotequila.com

midwestcomforthomes.com

Michael Dean and his wife, Guadalupe,

Travis Thonen founded Midwest Comfort

wanted to leave a true Mexican legacy for

Homes in 2010 after being laid off from a

their six children.

local union.

The result of this dream—along with a decade of hard work and financial sacrifice—was a privately owned tequila brand and an international

company will donate $20 for each sold bottle of Mi Rancho Legacy Barrica Privada to the charity La Familia Dean Loyoza Foundation, which supports the education of Hispanic youth in subjects of agriculture, chemistry and international business.

Amidst the company’s booming success,

sales — and it’s poised for further growth. In 2019, the company plans to launch a full slate of mitigation services to help customers across the board in the first phase of a disaster, damage or fire.

restoration, roof replacement and repairs, and mitigation services. inspired by Thonen’s personal experience

of Mi Rancho Tequila worldwide. The

percent increase in

contracting services for disaster

Choosing the restoration field was

Spirit Corp. has already sold $1.3 million

contractor saw a 300

including flooding, sewage backup, hail

distribution contract worth

American distribution, Hermitage

From 2017 to 2018, the

The company provides general

up to $35 million.

While Dean still controls North

and restoration contractors.

— when he was young, his family home in Raytown suffered a fire, and his parents had to work with insurance companies

Moxi Events LAURA VANZANTE AND EMILY MCNULTY

7

collective 1,000 events worldwide.

Moxi’s commitment to quality sets the company apart, VanZante says.

“The standard for service is the driving

lenexa founded

“MIDWEST COMFORT HOMES IS, AT THE HEART OF THE COMPANY, BASED ON OUR SHARED VULNERABILITY WITH THE CUSTOMER AFTER A TRAGIC LOSS IN THEIR HOMES OR BUSINESS.”

:: 2008

employees

moxievents.com

force behind Moxi Events,” VanZante said. “(Our) team is filled with some of the greatest creative minds in the

Founded in 2008 by Laura VanZante

industry, but the level of service we

provide high-quality spirits at low,

and Emily McNulty, Moxi is a boutique

provide is truly what makes us unique.”

affordable prices.

corporate event-planning company that

Dean’s central focus has remained to

“Our mission is to provide a superior quality tequila product at an everyday accessible price to the consumer,” Dean said.

“MI RANCHO TEQUILA COMPETES AT THE VERY HIGHEST LEVEL OF THE TEQUILA SPIRITS INDUSTRY AND HOLDS ITS OWN WITH BILLION-DOLLAR LIQUOR COMPANIES.” 12 : : ithinkbigger.com

specializes in meetings, conferences, incentive programs and special events.

Its services include destination selection, budget management, logistical planning and on-site troubleshooting.

Moxi is a certified Women-Owned Small Business through the Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC).

Its seven event-planners have planned a

“MOXI HAS A KNACK FOR CHANNELING OUR CREATIVITY INTO INNOVATIVE SOLUTIONS THAT PUT A FRESH TWIST ON OUR CLIENTS’ PROGRAMS YEAR AFTER YEAR. WE NEVER LIKE TO SEE THE SAME THING TWICE.”

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

MIKE HIGGINS, STEVE

My Child Advocate / The Layne Project

BEENE, PATRICK O’BOYLE

TRINA NUDSON

mediation in high-conflict

overland park

olathe

custody disputes.

MSP COnsulting

founded

12

:: 2003

employees getmspadvantage.com

MSP Consulting goes beyond the norm in providing payment solutions. It aims to help transform the merchant services industry.

Founders Mike Higgins, Steve Beene and Patrick O'Boyle built the business around transparent fee structures and accountability to deliver what was promised.

Fifteen years later, it has grown to provide processing services thousands of clients across the U.S. MSP works to help its clients understand what they are paying and how they can maximize their profit by lowering their processing fees — even if MSP’s services are not used.

The company strives to put its employees first, allowing flexibility and promoting an open-door policy that allows anyone to drop in on the partners. And they make it fun, hosting a weekly happy hour and

founded

14

Guardian ad Litem work), case management and

:: 2008

Meanwhile, The Layne

employees

Project focuses on working

mychildadvocate.com

with the children directly,

After years of social work in a frustrating

helping families rebuild as their

foster care system, Trina Nudson noticed

dynamics shift. These services include

something severely lacking in the

supervised parenting time and exchange,

Johnson County courtroom: protection

cooperative parenting programs,

for children in custody disputes and

parental education, co-parenting

other parental conflicts.

coaching and custody evaluations. The

In 2001, she went to law school. By

project also offers therapy for struggling

2008, she had opened her own practice.

parents and kids as well as a class that

From this passion, two central projects

teaches children coping skills for the

were born: Nudson’s law firm My Child

back-and-forth between two homes.

Advocate and her social service agency,

My Child Advocate and The Layne Project

The Layne Project Inc. Both work

combined currently has 14 employees,

personally and within the legal system

and after a decade of working with

to protect children from the collateral

families, Nudson and her team still are

damage of parental disputes.

dedicated to protecting and promoting

My Child Advocate’s work includes legal

the best interests of the children and

services (including but not limited to

families they serve.

“WE TAKE PRIDE IN PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM PARENTAL CONFLICT AND ARE WILLING TO BE OPENMINDED AND FUTURE-FOCUSED, ALWAYS SEEKING TO IMPROVE IN ORDER TO BEST MEET THE NEEDS OF FAMILIES WE SERVE.”

WE

®

monthly all-staff lunches.

“MSP COMMITS TO GOING ABOVE AND BEYOND THE INDUSTRY STANDARD IN ALL AREAS. MSP DESIRES TO BE IN RELATIONSHIP WITH ITS CUSTOMERS FOR DECADES.”

Class of 2007

Nomination Sponsor

WINNERS

Branding

Design

Digital

25 Under 25 Awards : : 13

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

OneHQ

Otto Service

KYLE GINAVAN

ANDREW AND TERRI OTTO

leawood

kansas city, mo.

14

6

employees

founded

:: 2011

employees

founded

:: 1977

onehq.com

ottoservicekc.com

There was a time when many of the technology products used in the insurance industry had at least one major flaw. They were outdated, inefficient, had limited functionality or weren't industry-specific.

For 40 years, Otto Service of Kansas

At the suggestion of an acquaintance, Kyle Ginavan stepped into that void with something completely different.

In 2012, Ginavan's startup, OneHQ, launched AgenciesHQ as an agency management system, customer relationship management tool, commissions processing system and reporting system designed specifically for insurance firms.

The industry's response to the product, offered on a monthly subscription basis, was strong. OneHQ now has more than 150 clients in more than 40 states.

Otto said. "Customers had requested this in the past.

A lot of our customers also own Toyotas or Lexus, so now they can bring all their vehicles here."

City Inc. carved out a niche by servicing

Terri Otto, a former teacher, also

Hondas and, later, the import's luxury

updated the shop's waiting area to

Acura line.

include puzzles, books and a play area

It didn't take long for Andrew and Terri

for children.

Otto to put their own mark on the family business when they bought the shop from Andrew's father, Alan, in January 2017. One of their first moves was adding Toyota and Lexus to the line of vehicles they service.

"It's definitely increased revenue," Terri

“WE STRIVE TO SHOW OUR CUSTOMERS THAT WE DO NOT JUST CARE FOR THEIR VEHICLE, BUT WE ALSO CARE ABOUT THEM BECAUSE TO US THEY ARE FAMILY.”

Porter Teleo

Porter Teleo’s work has been

KELLY PORTER AND

and fashion publications

BRIDGETT COCHRAN

such as Vogue and Elle

kansas city, mo.

Decor, and its papers

founded

10

:: 2005

employees

featured in leading design

can be viewed in locales such as the Ritz Carlton, Waldorf-Astoria and

Ginavan said 2015, 2016 and 2017 were "insane growth years of more than 60 percent per year."

porterteleo.com

"Everything was running a little too hot by the end of 2017, so our 2018 focus was to improve our internal processes to build a sustainable company," he said.

creative abilities in 2005, their goal was

As of January 2019, Porter Teleo has

to bring fine art to interior spaces. They

a new commercial space within the

established Porter Teleo, a collection of

Crossroads Arts District.

"THE HARDEST TRANSITION WAS LEARNING HOW TO BECOME THE COACH RATHER THAN THE QUARTERBACK BECAUSE I ALSO ENJOYED THRILL OF PLAYING THE GAME.”

“We wanted to capture and create

14 : : ithinkbigger.com

When abstract artist Kelly Porter and designer Bridgett Cochran combined

celebrity homes all over the world.

hand-painted textiles and wall coverings. something totally new to the design world,” Cochran said. “We wanted to remain true to the authenticity of the processes and materials used in fine arts.”

“WE FEEL OUR WORK ENVIRONMENT VERY MUCH EMPOWERS WOMEN AND WE’LL CONTINUE TO DRIVE THESE TYPES OF PRACTICES AS LONG AS WE’RE IN BUSINESS.”

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

REDESIGNKC

prioritization of clear communication. The

design team to work with architects,

company uses cloud-based construction

contractors and customers.

RICK O’NEILL

management software that engages its

kansas city, mo.

in-house team, customers, vendors

founded

8

:: 2008

and trade partners. This allows for a comprehensive level of coordination

employees

redesignkc.com

through all stages and areas of the project.

RedesignKC is a full-service general

“Very few remodeling companies are using

contractor offering comprehensive design-build services for residential and commercial

these tools, so I believe that we were at the cutting edge of the industry when we adopted this program in 2014,” O’Neill

“This curated experience has created a devoted client base that is filled with recurring customers and enough referrals to grow revenue 558 percent in five years,” O’Neill said.

In addition to growing revenue in the next five years, O’Neill hopes to add 20 more employees to the company’s

clients. This translates

said. “We continue to look to technology

8-person team.

to large-scale residential

to make our company more efficient and

remodeling, custom new

engaging, while still seeing tremendous

homes and commercial

value in high-touch, in-person

“REDESIGNKC CONSTANTLY STRIVES TO IMPROVE ITS PROCESSES AND SYSTEMS, AND IN DOING SO WE ARE CONSTANTLY IMPROVING OUR SERVICE, CULTURE AND PROFITABILITY.”

projects under 10,000 square feet.

interactions with our clients.”

The company also focuses on accurate,

The key to RedesignKC’s success is its

financial transparency and provides a

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2019 25 Under 25 Honorees! www.aboveandbeyondcateringkc.com

816-221-1010 25 Under 25 Awards : : 15

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

the Running Well Store

Running Well Store’s 20 employees work

The core mission of TRWS is rooted in

KATHY GATES

one-on-one with clients to tailor each

its strong dedication to community. The

mission

shoe to their needs.

store hosts local charity runs and events

Founded in 2006 and owned by Kathy

in the interest of promoting community

Gates since 2012, The Running Well Store

health and wellness, such as free

has developed the reputation as a

weekly group runs and the Day One

local favorite.

Run on Jan. 1.

While brick and mortar has struggled in

The Running Well Store has been a

the new Amazon.com world, the benefits

four-time consecutive winner of the Top

of The Running Well Store’s stride

50 Best Running Stores in America by

founded

20

:: 2006

employees

therunningwellstore.com

If you’re looking for experienced, personalized fit when shopping for footwear, The Running Well Store may be the perfect fit.

Through a deep understanding of biomechanics, learning the individual gait of each customer and knowing the technology in footwear, The

analysis is reflected in its growth. In 2015, TRWS opened its second location in Lee’s Summit and a third in Mission in 2018.

“We focus on the customer, their needs and the right shoe,” Gates said.

Shamer rific Shine

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TODAY! Join us February 23 for the small business celebration of the year 25Under25.com

CHRISTINA SCOTT

AND KEVIN NEIGHLEY overland park founded

5

:: 2007

employees

“RUN WELL. WALK WELL. WORK WELL. WE ARE THE PLACE FOR EVERY PACE.”

drains. They wanted to differentiate themselves in the car washing and detailing market, abide by the rules and still have their customers’

shamerrificshine.com

vehicles look top notch.

Owners Christina Scott and Kevin Neighley spent years working to perfect the services at their Overland Park detailing and hand car washing business.

But they grew their business by exploring a new market.

That’s when the the product

The married couple came up with a microfiber chamois, dubbed Shine Pro, that allows them to make more money by using less water. The patented product also saves time and eliminates the need for cleaning product, making it ecofriendly to boot.

Scott and Neighley were aware of the Clean Water Act and the dangers of putting chemicals and soaps down

16 : : ithinkbigger.com

Competitor Running Magazine.

was born. They sewed prototypes in their basement.

The company also offers full-service auto detailing, which includes specialized services such as high-end interior and exterior detailing, cigarette and mold removal, paint protection and correction, and more.

“WHETHER A CUSTOMER IS NEEDING AN EMERGENCY SERVICE BECAUSE THEY SPILLED AN ENTIRE COFFEE, THEY HAVE FLOOD DAMAGE ... WE CARE AND WE PARTNER WITH THEM.”

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

Smith Mohlman LLC RACHEL SMITH

kansas city, mo. founded

10

:: 2005

employees

accidentlawkc.com

When Rachel Smith founded Smith Mohlman in 2005, her central goal was to help injured people who were bullied by

was founded by Smith, attorney Mike

lost days of work, causing stress over

Mohlman is a co-owner.

basic needs like paying rent and feeding

One of the keys to Smith Mohlman’s

their families. Insurance companies

success is its training and skill in

often exacerbate these struggles by

running focus groups, which the firm

delaying on settling claims and

does for all its cases. These specialized

denying liability.

focus groups enable the attorneys to determine what a jury may think and allow them to perfect strategies to get the damages to suffering clients.

“What many people don’t know is that

insurance companies.

few law firms are actually willing to take

Smith Mohlman Injury

a personal injury case to trial, even if it’s

Law primarily represents personal injury matters such as wrongful death, nursing home litigation and vehicular crashes. While the company

the right thing for the plaintiff,” Smith said. “It’s extremely expensive, timeconsuming and risky.”

Clients that come to Smith Mohlman often face mounting medical bills and

Smith Mohlman works to represent these individuals by making its attorneys accessible — they are available for free consultations and offer after-work advice to struggling clients.

“SMITH MOHLMAN BELIEVES THAT INJURED PEOPLE DESERVE THE BEST POSSIBLE CARE, NOT ONLY IN THE MEDICAL OFFICE BUT ALSO IN THE COURTROOM.”

Perfect for happy hours, conferences, galas, or break out meetings, The Kansas City Club features 10 restored venues while still keeping the timeless neoclassical architecture that the building is known for.

816.352.5697

|

info@kansascityclub.com

|

kansascityclub.com

25 Under 25 Awards : : 17

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

Taxesplus INC. TIM SHEAHAN

complicated tax law and accounting

purchase a practice, TaxesPlus.

requirements. It offers a full range of

While the business was founded atop

shawnee founded

daughter’s college savings in order to

family sacrifice, the hard work paid off

:: 1999

employees

for the Sheahans. TaxesPlus’ accounting

taxesplus.com

revenues have grown 66 percent over the

9

In 1999, Tim Sheahan found himself drawn to a new career: He left his job as a general operations manager to start his own accounting

last two fiscal years alone.

“I didn’t focus on the fear, simply on my clients and creating the best work product,” Tim Sheahan said about

firm to help clients with

growing the business. “Having faith and

accounting and taxes.

the right focus redirected this insecurity

He leveraged his

of the unknown.”

retirement accounts,

TaxesPlus is an accounting firm

home equity loans, credit

that specializes in helping small

card debt and even his eldest

businesses and individuals work through

income tax, accounting and bookkeeping, payroll and small business services. Its team includes seven employees in addition to Tim and his daughter Chelsea.

“TAXESPLUS FUNDAMENTALLY EXISTS TO PROVIDE THE BEST ACCOUNTING AND TAX PRODUCT TO ITS CUSTOMERS WHILE ALSO DIFFERENTIATING ITSELF FROM THE AVERAGE TAX AND ACCOUNTING FIRMS WITH RESPECTFUL, HONEST AND PROMPT SERVICE BY ALL TEAM MEMBERS.”

25 Under 25 Gala Featuring Tea-Biotics LISA BLEDSOE lenexa founded

18

The Dave Stephens Band Along with emcee

Loren Halifax

:: 2015

employees

Sporting KC’s player lounge.

Last year, Tea-Biotics experienced 400 percent growth and a $700,000 capital raise, teaming up

tea-biotics.com

with hundreds of retail

What started out as a healthy hobby for

locations throughout the

Lisa Bledsoe quickly grew into a passion

KC metro.

that launched her business—brewing

Moving forward, Bledsoe intends to

homemade, probiotic kombucha.

continue the momentum by expanding

Once she discovered kombucha’s health

Tea-Biotics’ customer base inside and

benefits for herself, Bledsoe wanted to share them with her friends and family, an undertaking that quickly expanded to include the entire Kansas City community.

Her company, Tea-Biotics, now provides kombucha on tap for Kansas City athletes — it’s in the Chiefs’ training

18 : : ithinkbigger.com

facility, the Royals’ locker room and

outside the KC area.

“EVERY DAY I HAVE THE PRIVILEGE TO WAKE UP AND DECIDE HOW SUCCESSFUL I WANT MY COMPANY TO BE TODAY, HOW MY TEAM AND I CAN CHANGE LIVES, AND THROUGH OUR COLLECTIVE SUCCESS, HOW WE CAN HAVE A FUN CAREER.”

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019 : : HONOREES

Umzuzu

“It was a scary time,” he said, “but it was

relations management).

time to do it. People still needed email

TONY SHEETS

Sheets likened Umzuzu to a

even though there was a recession.”

manufacturer’s representative, offering

In 2006, Google announced it would

24-hour support for the platforms

support employers’ email in its

it works with. He said Umzuzu has

datacenters, aka the cloud. Sheets said

an “easy, Midwestern way of ‘talking

the offering changed email systems

Google,’” he said.

overland park

4 Employees founded

:: 2008

umzuzu.com

On the day Tony Sheets quit his job as IT

from a capital expense to an operating

director at a large, local firm, his

Business is good. Sheets said the

expense, making the business necessity

wife was pregnant with the

company has steady growth of 20

cheaper and easier to deal with. Umzuzu

percent per year.

couple’s third child, they

provides licensing and support for

were remodeling their

organizations making the change.

house and the country

Ten years after Umzuzu launched,

was mired in recession.

Google remains its largest partner, but

No matter. Sheets was

Sheets’ company also helps clients using

confident about his startup, Umzuzu, which helps customers transition to cloud services.

platforms like Microsoft Office 365, RingCentral, Clio (management software for law offices) and Copper (customer

“WE ASSUME THAT OUR CLIENTS WILL BE ON OUR SERVICES FOR FIVE OR 10 YEARS. WE GIVE AWAY MUCH OF OUR TIME INITIALLY AS WE SEE THE LONG-TERM VALUE OF THE CLIENT RELATIONSHIP.”

CONGRATULATIONS to the 2019 25 Under 25 Honorees! www.eliteeventsmo.com | 816-390-2908

25 Under 25 Awards : : 19

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019

WELCOME 25 under 25 class of 2019 KC BUSINESSES THINKING BIGGER WELCOMES THE 25 UNDER 25 CLASS OF 2019 Thinking Bigger Business Media Inc. is proud to welcome the 25 Under 25 Class of 2019 to the outstanding group of companies that have received the annual 25 Under 25 Award.

2017

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Bob Regnier, The Regnier Family Foundations

Artistic Concrete Surfaces LLC BioStar Lighting Brown Button Estate Sale Services Certified Radon DuBois Consultants Inc. ER | Marketing Fortiviti Generator Studio Hartline Construction

2015

HitchFit International Express Trucking Inc. J. Rieger & Co. Kansas City Bier Company LLC Lever1 MindLift Plasterkraft LLC SafeDefend LLC Sage

SARIN Energy Solutions Sphere3 STRATA Architecture Inc. Superior Disposal Service Inc. Towner Communications LLC Treadwell Worldwide Innovations & Technologies Inc.

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Sherry Turner, Founder of OneKC for Women

ABPathfinder Inc. City Gym DRAW Architecture + Urban Design eJ4 Evolytics JNA Advertising The Land Source & Evergreen Real Estate Services Lifted Logic

20 : : ithinkbigger.com

Likarda LLC Neighborhood Painting Inc. Neuvant House of Lawrence Nexus IT Group Optimum Energy Solutions REACTOR Design Studio Shockey Consulting Services Spotlight Square One Interiors LLC SRKO Contracting

Structura Inc. Sunlite Science & Technology Inc. Team Drive-Away Inc. Totta Hardwood Flooring LLC Unique Label Inc. Useagility Whatever It Takes Electrical Contractors LLC

2018

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Joe and Judy Roetheli, Founders of S&M NuTec

Adams Dairy Bank Cherry Code Koalas DMC Service Inc. Freedom Interiors FSC Inc. Good Energy Solutions Inc. Happy Food Co. High Prairie Landscape Group Kansas City Foot and Ankle |

2016

Heel Pain Center of Kansas City KC Crew KC Restoration LLC Meridian Business Services LLC Midwest Sport Productions Morgan Miller Plumbing MTI Events Network Innovations Inc. Notes to Self

Partners N Promotion Pioneer Music Prineta SureHosting Internet Solutions Inc. Sydney's Pet Spa Thirsty Coconut Wide Awake Films

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT John McDonald, Founder of Boulevard Brewing Co.

AlphaGraphics Kansas City Bier Station C&R Manufacturing Core Catalysts LLC Crema Dobies Healthcare Group Eagle Animal Hospital Elite Physical Therapy & Integrative Health

2014 Alight Analytics Engage Mobile Solutions Family Bicycles LLC Gunilla of Sweden Organic Skin Care Hearland Seating Inc. Hilary's Eat Well INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTS ATELIER INC. K12itc Kansas City Testing

Exhibit Associates Inc. Johnson County Siding & Window Co. Inc. Jowler Creek Vineyard & Winery Kazoo Media Landworks Studio Leopold Gallery & Art Consulting MEDIAHEAD Muehlebach Funeral Care

New You Health Studio Platinum Realty LLC Prairie Design Build Prairie Elder Care Rosin Preservation Sage Restoration Staffing Kansas City Inc. Weave Gotcha Covered WomenSpirit

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Bert Berkley, Chairman of the Board,Tension Corporation, William H. Dunn Sr., Chairman Emeritus, JE Dunn Construction, Donald J. Hall,Chairman of the Board, Hallmark Cards

and Engineering LLC Krueger & James Insurance Agency Lauren's Hope Medical ID Bracelets Level Five LMG Construction O'Neill Marketing & Event Marketing Quality Air Solutions RareWire

RESULTS Technology Sir Speedy Printing and Marketing Services The Tasteful Olive Tricension Turf etc., Authorized SYNLawn Supplier Twentyseven Global VALBRIDGE PROPERTY ADVISORS /Shaner Appraisals Inc. Weather Metrics Inc.

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019

2013

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Patricia Brown-Dixon, Region VII Administrator, U.S. Small Business Administration

A/R Allegiance Group LLC Alpha Energy and Electric Inc. Belton Animal Clinic & Exotic Care Center Bullseye International Inc. Cates Auction & Realty Co. Inc. Data Locker Inc. Earthway Enterprises EPIC Entertainment Inc.

2011

hr-haven inc.

Lewis Block & Supply Company LTD Signs & Graphics LLC Mano’s Corporate Gifts Mersoft Corporation Midland Metal Office Products Alliance Paige Technologies LLC ReTouch Design–Build– Renovate

Russell-Hampton Co. Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law LLC Snake ‘n’ Rooter The Lano Company TK Architects International Inc. TWI LLC Urban Tree Specialists Worldwide Wine and Spirits Inc.

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Danny O’Neill, Founder and Bean Baron, the Roasterie

Affinity Group Management Affordable Elegance Catering Associated Equipment Sales Bark to Basics Boyer & Corporon Wealth Management Freedom Bank Great Day Moving GreenAcres Market Harper’s Fabric & Quilt

Heartland Fabrication & Machine HushMat ikros.com Kansas City Center for Anxiety Treatment Lakewood Animal Health Center Light Bulbs Etc. MidWest Vascular Access

Nationwide Transportation and Logistics Services New Horizons Enterprises Northland Physical Therapy Oncimmune USA The Corridor Group The RED Force Fire & Security The Roasterie Café The Wellington Group Veracity Solutions

2009

Kurt Mueller, CEO of the former Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership

3 Women and an Oven Arsalon Technologies Braces by Dr. Hansen EventPros Express Scale Parts & 0Manufacturing FRD Communications Galvmet Genesis Structures

Giltner & Sons Media Services & ShredTime Outlaw Cigar Company P/Strada Paceline Products Pass Dental Center Pat Riha Productions Poole Fire Protection Rainy Day Books

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT

River City Searcy Financial Services Skyline Displays Heartland TextCaster The Henning Law Firm Tickets For Less TNT Forage Unchained Creative

2012

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Ewing Kauffman, Founder of Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and serial entrepreneur

Affinis Corp.

American Digital Security American Midwest Distributors Big Momma’s Bakery-Café Blue Skyz Enterprises Inc. candid marketing & communications Consolidated Printing Supplies Great Getaways Travel

2010 40North Aurora Plastic and Hand Surgery Avatar Engineering Botwin Family Partners Bowman Bowman Novick Brockton Creative Group DVA Enterprises Fun Services of KC Homoly Construction

2008 Acceleration AesthetiCare Ard Glass Service CareStaf Convenience Xpress The DVS Group DXD Sports EAT Advertising and Design Express Business Supply

Horizon Orthotic & Prosthetic Experience HSMC InnovaPrep KDC Construction KR Legal Management MAG Trucks & MAG Capital Marathon Digital Services and MySmartPlans Mill Creek Animal Hospital

Moblico Solutions Mr. Tires Orbis Biosciences Rockwell Labs Ltd. SM Products/Spyder SSi Furnishings Summit Construction Company The UPS Store, Oak Park Commons Van Osdol & Magruder P.C.

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Rick Krska, President and Chief Executive Servant of InkCycle

Insight Eyecare Specialties IntelliThink LeaderFuelNow Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions Max Electric Mobile Surgical Lasers Office Products Recycling Associates Open Methods SCD Probiotics

Scovell Wolfe & Associates Technology Group Solutions The Koehler Bortnick Team of Reece & Nichols Real Estate The Planned Approach Travois Validity Screening Solutions WillCo Technologies

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT V. Cheryl Womack, Chairperson, Leading Women Entrepreneurs of the WorldTM; CEO, VCW Holding Company; CEO, The Star Group

Eye Care Optical Germinder & Associates I Love a Mystery Legacy School of the Arts Mission Bowl Nash Resources Group Olathe Animal Hospital Power On Technologies QTI

ROSnet Rush Tracking Systems Sound Products Stuff Tevis Architects Top Choice Contracting Visionpace

25 Under 25 Awards : : 21

25 UNDER 25 AWARDS : : 2019

2007

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Robert Bernstein, Co-founder, President and CEO, Bernstein-Rein Advertising

All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding Aquarius Associated Audiologists Brookside Barkery & Bath Coleman Industrial Construction Design Ranch el dorado Entrepreneur Advertising Group Finkle|Williams Architecture

2005

Fish Development FPC Gage Machine Tool Gardner Animal Hospital Hangers Cleaners Industrial Supply Kansas City Master Companies Kansas City T-Bones Baseball Club Magic Touch Cleaning

Restaurant Link ReUse Concrete Sealing Specialists SoftVu sys-tek Top Innovations Uncommon Grounds Worldwide Clinical Research

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Honorable Carol Marinovich, Former Mayor/CEO Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas

Adams-Gabbert & Associates Allstate Specialty Construction Bartunek Technology Group BuiltToLastHome.com Caption Services of Kansas CommWorld of Kansas City Design Supply ESC Index Greenleaf Construction Co.

2003

ProPrint Reynolds Consulting Sturges Word T2–Take Two The Best of Kansas City Union Packaging Versent–The Purple Guys Wrenn Insurance

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Barnett Helzberg, Jr., Former Chairman of the Board, Helzberg Diamonds; Founder, Helzberg Entrepreneurial Mentoring Program (HEMP)

Bridal Wreath Business By Promotion C&M Restoration CHRW Advertising Curt’s Famous Meats ECCO Select FIVE STAR Speakers & Trainers Genghis Kahn Hamele Healthcare Resources

22 : : ithinkbigger.com

HOTMETAL Creative Jantsch Slaggie Architects L.R. Cloverleaf Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise Nature’s Window NCES Pegasus Capital Management Prairiebrooke Arts

Howell Construction Co. iKnowledge Leaderpoint Leatherwood’s Home for Children Nexus Relocation Group Original Juan Specialty Foods R&D Associates Rees Masilionis

Turley Architecture Rudroff Heating & Air Conditioning Russ Cline & Associates S&M NuTec–Greenies Dog Treats Steed Company Remodeling Contractors TeamOffice The Renova Group Threatt Nutrition Stores Transportation Logistics Systems

2006

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Henry Bloch, Co-founder and Honorary Chair of H&R Block

ABMI–Merger and Acquisitions ACS Data Search AnswerPro Limited Aptora Baber’s Catering Birdies Bryan & Klein Creative Courseware The Culinary Center of Kansas City

2004

Accommodations by Apple Almar Printing The Auto Clinic Corbin Bronze The Cup and Saucer on Delaware Street Custom Engineering Financial Security Advisors Harmon Construction Indigo Wild

Mid-America Merchandising Missouri Office Systems & Supplier OCCU-TEC Prier Products Saepio Technologies Shatto Farms–Shatto Milk Co. Shear Madness

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Dr. Patricia Greene, Dean of the Undergraduate School at Babson College; former Ewing Marion Kauffman/Missouri, Chair in Entrepreneurial Leadership at UMKC

Ben Weddle & Associates Canterbury Preparatory School City Market Coffee Company Dessonville Boler Wood Murray & Stalp Fulfillment Plus Gini L. Toyne & Associates Gragg Advertising J.M. Neil & Associates KC Creations

2002

Designers Delivery Services Evolv Solutions Felco Printing & Mailing GPW & Associates Home Rental Services Hometown Hearing & Audiology Kenton Brothers Systems for Security LionShare Marketing Metzler Bros. Insurance

Mid-America Sign Contractors Missouri Information Solutions Netchemia Old-Country Bakery Partners in Behavioral Milestones Phoenix Renovation and Restoration Plaza Personnel Scandinavian Country

Schloegel Design Remodel Serve & Clean Sienna Bistro Six Degrees Solutions The Smile Salon Two West Weather or Not YTC Services

ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD RECIPIENT Richard Bendis, Former CEO and President, Kansas Technology Enterprise Center

J. Schmid & Associates Junk Architects Meers Marketing Communications Minuteman Press Morningstar Communications Company Network Integration Services Noonshine Window Cleaning Service

PC Wizards Punch Software Roger the Plumber Santa Fe Auto Sound Serenity the Rejuvenating Day Spa SPIDERtel Tatjana Alvegaard Photography Wilson Johnson Embers Your Wellness Connection

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25 Under 25 Awards : : 23

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RIVET • 116 W. 3rd Street • Kansas City, MO • 816-448-5560 • WeAreRivet.com

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