Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce release
MANHATTAN, KS (September 16, 2025) - The Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized the successes and outstanding achievements of members in six categories: Cornerstone (Lifetime Achievement in Business and Industry), Small Business of the Year, Women/Minority Owned Business of the Year, Business of the Year, Entrepreneurial Spirit and Tourism Development Awards. Criteria were established for each award and nominations were taken. A committee evaluated each nomination and decided finalists based on those businesses that most matched the criteria.
“We are thrilled to get the opportunity to honor so many great businesses,” said Jason Smith President and CEO of the Manhattan Area Chamber of Commerce. “This is a great opportunity to recognize the importance of the business community on Manhattan’s economy and the quality of life of its residents.”
The Cornerstone Award honors a business that exemplifies what being a “solid pillar of the community” is all about. It is given to a local business that has demonstrated growth in sales, employees and/or services since its origination. Additionally, it will be evident of active participation in the business community and their impact on the local community with association involvement as well as community volunteering. The 2025 recipient is Bayer Construction Company.
The Business of the Year Award goes to a business within the Manhattan community that exemplifies both business and civic leadership. Community involvement, management practices and overall financial performance are the primary criteria for this category. The 2025 finalists for the Business of the Year Award are: Addair Law, Howie’s and Meadowlark.The 2025 recipientis Addair Law.
The Small Business of the Year is awarded to a small business within the Manhattan community that exemplifies both business and civic leadership. Community involvement, management practices and overall financial performance are the primary criteria for this category.
The 2025 finalists for the Small Business of the Year Award are: New Boston Creative Group, Platinum & Company and Washington Dance Studio.The 2025 recipient is New Boston Creative Group.
The Women/Minority Owned Business Award recognizes diverse business leaders and decision-makers across all industries who have a proven track record of excellence in advocating for others within their communities and workplaces throughout the local community.
The 2025 finalists for the Women/Minority Owned Business are: Companion Media, TheraPie and SwitchWicked.The 2025 recipient is SwitchWicked.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit Award celebrates the entrepreneur who has led the way for their business. The nominee will demonstrate true entrepreneurial spirit through the creation of a new business locally, despite the risks involved. The entrepreneur will be noted for the creativity of the new product or service being offered as well as the demonstration of sound business practices.
The 2025 finalists for the Entrepreneurial Spirit Award are: Complete Weddings + Events, Flint Hills Ventures and R.C. McGraws Bar & Grill.The 2025 recipient is Flint Hills Ventures.
The Tourism Development Award is presented to a business that has made a significant contribution to the tourism industry in the area. This business has created a new, innovative product, policy, service or event to promote and enhance tourism in the local community.
The 2025 finalists for the Tourism/Hospitality Award are: Manhattan Brewing Company, McCain Performance Series and Museum of Art + Light. The 2025 recipient is Museum of Art + Light.
Thank you Presenting Sponsor, Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Kansas and Award Sponsors, SGA Accountants/Advisors, Leiszler Oil Company, WTC Fiber, Meritrust Credit Union, Hi-Tech Interiors, Inc. and Midwest Dream Car Museum.