This past week marked Small Business Week, sponsored by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, and the Amherst Chamber of Commerce was proud to celebrate in a big way. Throughout the week, we championed our small business community through expanded social media promotions, co-branded events with like-minded organizations that brought our members together, and a special celebration lunch hosted at our office.
The lunch had one simple goal: to thank our small businesses and recognize their dedication, determination, and heart that they pour into their work every single day. The turnout exceeded our expectations, with nearly fifty businesses represented, and the energy in the room was nothing short of inspiring. Conversations flowed naturally, new connections were made, and all who attended appreciated the change in pace.
While most of our programming follows a structured agenda, a necessity given the limited time our members can step away from their businesses, this lunch was intentionally different. No formal presentations. No packed schedule. Just a wonderful meal catered by fellow Chamber member Forno e Mercato, surrounded by great people and meaningful conversation. It was our way of saying thank you, and a powerful reminder that sometimes the best results come not from pushing harder, but from slowing down. When we make space to connect as people first, everything else tends to follow.
This week, I'm thrilled to announce the recipients of our 2026 Small Business Awards, who will be honored on Wednesday, June 24, at the Buffalo Marriott Niagara. This event has become one of the highlights of our year, and for good reason. It is the moment we get to publicly celebrate the businesses that quietly do extraordinary things in our community every single day.
Last year, we moved the luncheon and showcase to the Marriott's newly renovated space after our event outgrew its previous home, drawing over 40 vendors. I'm happy to share that we have exceeded the number of vendors who participated last year, and we are on pace to exceed last year's attendance, which speaks volumes about the strength and momentum of our small business community.
This Year's Honorees
- Small Business of the Year — Minuteman Press. Owned by Wes Froebel, who has grown his business through dedication, smart decision-making, and strategic acquisition.
- Family-Owned Business of the Year — Heathwood Assisted Living & Memory Care. A third-generation business with an impeccable reputation for caring for our loved ones during some of life's most tender moments. The Heathwood name has become synonymous with compassion in our region, and this honor is long overdue.
- Commitment to Excellence Award — TripleTrack HR Partners. A reflection of the standard they hold themselves to and the meaningful impact they've had on the businesses they serve.
- At-Your-Service Award — Chuck Mauro. We talk a lot at the Chamber about mentorship and the idea that a rising tide lifts all boats, and few embody that better than longtime Western New York restaurateur Chuck Mauro, owner of Siena, 800 Maple, Rocco's, and JT's. Chuck receives this honor for his unwavering dedication to helping others in his industry succeed.
- Friend of the Chamber — Sarah Just, Horizon Health. Instrumental to our Emerging Business Leaders Council and a generous volunteer for all things Chamber-related.
- Sponsor's Award — National Fire Adjustment. Presented by KeyBank, our returning event sponsor, in recognition of NFA's contributions to the business community.
We moved locations to continue growing this event, and we want to ensure we have plenty of room for future growth. Whether you're a longtime member or new to our community, I hope you'll join us in celebrating these remarkable honorees. Tickets, sponsorship opportunities, and additional event details are available. Please take advantage of discounted pricing that will end June 1st.
As always, please remember that my door is always open.
