Chattanooga Zoo, BNI Southeast Tennessee, (Be) Caffeinated, and Master Machine Inc., were recognized for growth and overall performance as they received top honors at the 2023 Chattanooga Area Chamber of Commerce Awards program, presented by Chambliss, Bahner & Stophel P.C.
More than 150 member businesses were nominated for consideration for the prestigious annual awards. Small Business Award recipients announced Wednesday are:
Nonprofit – Chattanooga Zoo
1-20 Employees – BNI Southeast Tennessee
21-50 Employees – (Be) Caffeinated
51-300 Employees – Master Machine Inc.
The Chattanooga Chamber Awards Committee, an independent group of volunteers, vets applicants and commits more than one year to the careful process of reviewing application information, performing on-site visits, evaluating organizations’ financial growth – along with measurable outcomes. Community contributions and adaptability are also given consideration.
Chattanooga Zoo is an innovative hub of education and conservation. Founded in 1937, the zoo has grown to become one of Chattanooga’s top regional attractions showcasing natural wonders through exhibits including a recent $10 million African-wildlife expansion.
BNI Southeast Tennessee provides its members with the structure and systems to grow businesses through qualified referrals. Since 2017, the company has increased revenue by 30 percent and membership by 38 percent, contributing more than $33 million in member referral revenue to the local economy.
Roasting its own coffee out of a Northshore location, (Be) Caffeinated offers a variety of specialty beverages, signature drinks and pastries. The company is experiencing notable growth, grossing more than $1.5 million in 2022. Holding to its mission of ‘cultivating kindness,’ (Be) Caffeinated partners with one local nonprofit each month and conducts profit share nights to benefit the community.
For more than 30 years, Master Machine Inc. has provided machining, fabrication and engineering services to support nuclear, naval and aerospace industries. Partnering with local companies like Tennessee Valley Authority, Southern Nuclear, and Tennessee Valley Robotics, Master Machine Inc. has established itself as a community partner set for continued growth. Over the last several years, the company has invested more than $4 million in new equipment, buildings and tooling to support expansion.
Learn more about the Chamber Awards, here.