Issuu

AGENDA

4:00 PM

5:00 PM

Cocktail Reception

Welcome

Gina Douthat, General Manager, Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK)

Opening Comments

Tony Johnson – Market President, Huntington Bank

Presentation of 2026 Business Impact Award Winners

Emcee: Jamie Smith, Publisher and Market President, Cincinnati Business Courier

SMALL BUSINESS AWARD sponsored by St. Elizabeth Healthcare

Covington Community Montessori

Olla Taqueria Gutierrez

Roebling Solutions

Superior Van and Mobility NKY

Sure Drive Driving School

MEDIUM BUSINESS AWARD sponsored by St. Elizabeth Healthcare

ATech Training

Complete Forklift Repair

FamilyCare Counseling Solutions

The Hive – East Coast Kitchen + Coffee Bar

Regadget

LARGE BUSINESS AWARD sponsored by HUB International

Clark Schaefer Hackett

One Holland

Perfetti Van Melle USA

The Radisson Hotel

Strauss Troy

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS FOR-PROFIT AWARD

WELCOME FROM THE CHAIR

KYLE SHUMATE

2026 Business Impact

Awards Chair and CMO at Clark Schaefer Hackett

Welcome to the 10th Annual Business Impact Awards!

Congratulations to each of today’s finalists. With nearly 200 nominations submitted, this recognition is a significant achievement. You represent the innovation, leadership, and impact that continue to move Northern Kentucky forward.

On behalf of the NKY Chamber and the Business Impact Awards Committee, we are proud to celebrate your accomplishments. Your work helps make this region a great place to live, work, play, learn and give back.

Title Sponsor

Award Sponsors

Photo Booth Sponsor

THANK YOU TO OUR

After Party Sponsor

Parking Sponsor

Host Sponsor

Event Sponsors

FamilyCare Counseling Solutions, LLC

Jabil

Perfetti Van Melle USA

PNC Bank

Redhawk Technologies

Verst Logistics

Villa Madonna Academy

SMALL BUSINESS FINALISTS (1-10 EMPLOYEES)

Covington Community Montessori is a nurturing, child-centered school dedicated to fostering independence, curiosity, and a lifelong love of learning. Rooted in Montessori principles, it provides a hands-on, collaborative environment where students are empowered to grow academically, socially, and emotionally. The school emphasizes community, respect, and individualized learning to support each child’s unique potential.

Olla Taqueria Gutierrez is a family-owned Mexican street food restaurant rooted in culture, community, and opportunity. Known for its authentic, fromscratch flavors, Olla goes beyond food by hosting free community events, supporting local schools, and reinvesting in youth and minority initiatives. Through its commitment to inclusion, sustainability, and local impact, Olla continues to help shape a stronger, more connected Northern Kentucky.

Roebling Solutions is a Government Relations firm solving problems and delivering solutions for our clients in partnership with State, Local, and Federal government leaders. We are communicators, collaborators, and outof-the-box thinkers committed to bridging business and public policy.

Superior Van & Mobility is committed to helping customers maintain their independence and mobility. We provide expert guidance, products, and support designed to make everyday travel easier and more accessible for people with diverse mobility needs. Our focus is on empowering individuals to move freely and confidently in their daily lives.

Award sponsored by

Sure Drive Driver Training has been a trusted leader in driver education across Northern Kentucky for over 25 years, serving Boone, Kenton, and Campbell counties. We provide teen and adult driving instruction, road test preparation, and are now expanding into CDL training to meet growing workforce demands. Through hands-on training and a commitment to safety, we help individuals gain confidence, build skills, and create new opportunities on the road.

MEDIUM BUSINESS FINALISTS (11-50 EMPLOYEES)

ATech Training is a veteran-owned and operated, women-owned company founded in 1984 by former automotive instructors and headquartered in Walton, Kentucky. Recognized as a global leader, ATech designs and manufactures hands-on automotive training equipment and courseware used by OEMs, educational institutions, and military organizations worldwide. With a focus on real-world skill development and a strong commitment to community involvement, ATech delivers innovative, CASE™ certified solutions that prepare students for success in today’s evolving automotive industry.

Complete Forklift Repair is your forklift sales, service and rental dealer. We started with a very simple idea, to provide a complete solution for all your service and repair needs, then back it up with providing the highest level of customer service and to work with our customers with integrity, professionalism, and a unique insight based upon our years of experience in the material handling industry. We will go beyond our competitors and provide more than a service solution by becoming a partner with our customers to ensure their equipment has the highest uptime, the safest service, and the most efficient use possible.

FamilyCare Counseling Solutions is a behavioral health agency dedicated to providing high-quality, client-centered mental health services to individuals and families. We offer a range of outpatient and school-based programs designed to support emotional well-being, promote resilience, and improve overall functioning. At FamilyCare, our Bridge Program was built for families at risk of removal from the home, providing mental health counseling, substance use treatment, trauma-focused therapy, and case management—all designed to support the entire family system. We proudly serve families with Medicaid and those involved in child protection services or the court system, delivering care with respect, dignity, and no judgment, because we believe everyone deserves support—no matter their situation.

The Hive is a vibrant coffee bar, restaurant, and gathering space in Erlanger, Kentucky, where people come together over thoughtfully crafted breakfast, brunch, and lunch. Known for its welcoming, community-centered atmosphere, it serves high-quality food and drinks that make it a true “third place” beyond home and work. As Northern Kentucky’s best breakfast and brunch spot, The Hive blends comfort, connection, and creativity into every experience.

Regadget is a Northern Kentucky-based IT asset disposition and refurbished technology company focused on sustainability and closing the digital divide. By giving retired technology a second life, Regadget helps businesses manage outdated equipment responsibly while expanding access to affordable computers for schools, nonprofits, and underserved communities.

LARGE BUSINESS FINALISTS (OVER 50 EMPLOYEES)

Founded in 1938, CSH is a Top 70 accounting and advisory firm in the U.S. With over 550 employees, we solve our clients’ most pressing business issues and strive to be your most valued advisor. We accomplish this through becoming an extension of your team in areas such as financial, technological, operational, and human resources. Learn more at cshco.com.

Founded over 25 years ago by Gary Holland and based in Taylor Mill, Kentucky, One Holland Restaurant Group continues to focus on delivering exceptional dining experiences across both quick-serve and full-service concepts. What began with a single restaurant in 1995 has grown into a company that operates beloved brands, including the Greyhound Tavern in Fort Mitchell, the Merrick Inn in Lexington, Barleycorn’s (with three locations in Northern Kentucky), Barleycorn’s Brewhouse, Spear Ridge in Florence and Independence, and Roney’s in Milford. The group is also expanding with The Royal Kentuckian, opening at The Downs of Nicholson in Independence, along with a new Barleycorn’s Brewhouse location at the same development. One Holland’s growth continues to be built on a commitment to cleanliness, consistent service, quality food, and a friendly team across all locations.

Perfetti Van Melle USA is part of the world’s largest confectionery manufacturer, creating Innovative Treats and a Better Future. Well-known USA brands include Airheads, Mentos, and Chupa Chups. In Northern Kentucky, Perfetti’s proud long-time presence includes a factory, offices, and distribution center in Erlanger, employing more than 600 people. Perfetti is proud to make life sweeter for our employees and our community.

Since 1971 The Radisson hotel has been making memories with an impressive view of the Cincinnati skyline and easy access to area businesses and attractions like Heritage Bank Stadium. A five-minute trip over the river takes you into downtown Cincinnati, where you can cheer on the Reds at Great American Ball Park or attend a conference at the First Financial Center.

Strauss Troy is a strategically mid-sized, full-service law firm helping the people and businesses in our region thrive. For over 70 years, we’ve delivered creative legal solutions designed to meet our clients where they are—and help them get where they want to go. Your solutions start here.

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS (FOR-PROFIT) FINALISTS

Gravity Diagnostics is a leading clinical laboratory based in Northern Kentucky, specializing in advanced diagnostic testing, including toxicology, infectious disease, and pharmacogenomics (PGx). The company is dedicated to empowering individuals and providers with accurate, timely insights to improve health outcomes. Through innovation and accessibility, Gravity Diagnostics supports better-informed healthcare decisions.

Jabil is an engineering-led, supply chain-enabled manufacturing company whose global team designs, builds, and delivers products that enable the future today. Drawing on decades of experience, Jabil provides solutions across nearly every industry while advancing its vision to become the world’s most technologically advanced and trusted manufacturing solutions provider.

M&P Logistics is a third-party logistics brokerage based in Florence, Kentucky that helps shippers and carriers move freight efficiently and reliably. We focus on building strong relationships, providing responsive service, and finding practical transportation solutions for our customers. Backed by a hands-on team and in-house asset support, we combine the flexibility of a brokerage with the added reliability of equipment when needed.

Riegler Contracting is a family-owned Northern Kentucky company dedicated to protecting homes and serving people with excellence. As an Owens Corning Platinum Preferred Contractor, we deliver trusted roofing, siding, and gutter solutions with a strong commitment to quality, integrity, and community.

ROAD iD has saved lives and fueled adventure for over 25 years, impacting over 6 million lives so far. Founded in NKY by a father and son, we craft highquality personalized ID products and unbreakable pet gear. Headquartered in Covington, we’re known for our remarkable culture and for giving back, with over $2.5 million in charitable donations.

MADE POSSIBLE. MADE BETTER. Jabil

COMMUNITY CHAMPIONS (NON-PROFIT) FINALISTS

Big Brothers Big Sisters matches adult volunteers (“Bigs”) with children (“Littles”), providing one-on-one mentoring and support. Through these professionally supported relationships, Littles experience increased confidence, academic success, and social skills. The result? Stronger communities, as mentored youth are more likely to graduate, avoid risky behaviors, and achieve long-term success. We offer Site-Based and Community-Based opportunities for individuals, couples and businesses.

The Cincinnati Off-Road Alliance (CORA) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to bringing to life a sustainable, world-class trail system in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky, contributing to the joy, health, and well-being of our neighbors. Since 1996, CORA has built and maintained more than 120 miles of multi-use trails that support mountain biking, hiking, running, and meaningful connections to nature, working in partnership with state and local land managers on both public and private land. Guided by a bold regional vision, CORA is working toward 375 miles of connected, accessible trails.

At Easterseals Redwood, we believe in the power of purpose and the power of work. We empower children and adults with disabilities, military veterans, and people facing disadvantages to live full and meaningful lives. Serving more than 7,000 people and families each year across Ohio and Kentucky, we operate from multiple locations, delivering inclusive education, supportive therapies, workforce training, employment services, assistive technology solutions, and community-based supports that help individuals thrive.

Girl Scouts of Kentucky’s Wilderness Road builds girls of courage, confidence, and character by connecting them with a powerful network of women who inspire big dreams and bold leadership. Through meaningful adult engagement, we equip girls with the skills, support, and opportunities to reach beyond limits. Girl Scouts is a movement where girls don’t just dream big, they aim for the moon and rise to meet it.

The Missing Alexis Foundation is a nonprofit dedicated to providing compassionate, zerocost support, resources, and community to families grieving the loss of a baby through miscarriage, stillbirth, SIDS, and other forms of infant loss. Founded in 2008 in honor of Alexis MacKenzie Louden, the organization transforms profound personal loss into a lasting legacy of hope, healing, and remembrance. Through outreach such as memory boxes, support groups, burial assistance, and awareness events, it ensures no family has to navigate grief alone.

Call for Call for Entries Entries

HERITAGE FINALISTS

CTI Clinical Trial & Consulting is a global clinical research organization (CRO) headquartered in the Greater Cincinnati/Northern Kentucky region. Now in its third decade, CTI delivers end-to-end clinical trial, research, and laboratory services while actively investing in local workforce development, education partnerships, and community service initiatives that strengthen the NKY life sciences ecosystem.

Family-owned and operated since 1968, Earl Franks Sons and Daughters is located at 428 Madison Avenue, Covington, KY. We sell and install commercial and residential flooring which includes LVT, VCT, Ceramic Tile, Hardwood, and Carpeting.

As the sixth largest district in Kentucky, the Kenton County School District is dedicated to providing a world-class education for approximately 14,000 students across 17 high-performing schools. The district is recognized for its commitment to “Transition Readiness,” ensuring all students are prepared for success in the 21st-century economy through innovative programs and community-based accountability. By fostering strong partnerships between its 2,000 dedicated staff members and the local community, the KCSD continues to lead as a pillar of excellence and economic vitality in Northern Kentucky.

Steinhauser is a family- and woman-owned label printing company specializing in custom prime pressure sensitive and shrink sleeve labels for CPG brands. Known for agility, service, and consistent quality, Steinhauser has a long history as a trusted supply chain partner. The company emphasizes a peoplefirst culture, looking out for one another and their community.

Award sponsored by

Verst Logistics is proudly celebrating 60 years as a family-owned logistics provider offering omnichannel fulfillment, warehousing, packaging, and transportation solutions. The company operates more than 7.6 million square feet of strategically located warehouse space nationwide and is known for combining deep industry expertise with technology-driven efficiency. Its long-standing stability, job creation, and unwavering commitment to the Northern Kentucky community reflect the very qualities honored by the Heritage Award.

At Scooter Media, we bring creativity and strategy together to craft public relations campaigns, impactful graphic design, and engaging social media that deliver results. Our passion for what we do shines through in every project, big or small. Reach out today to discover how we can help your business make an impact!

INNOVATION FINALISTS

GQC is an IT and Environmental Services Consultant and the developer of HydroTrek AI-integrated Digital Twin (DT) Software Platform for the water sector. The DT provides Augmented Reality 3D visualization and utilizes AI and physics-based modeling to support decision-making for public agencies and utilities. It addresses operations and predictions for floods, spills, drinking water distribution, sewer collection and stormwater runoff management systems.

OneStop is a technology platform transforming how events are planned by connecting users with trusted local vendors in one streamlined marketplace. We are focused on underserved and relationship-driven markets, enabling vendors to grow while giving customers a faster, more reliable way to execute events. Since launching, we have rapidly onboarded vendors and early users, validating strong demand and positioning OneStop for scalable growth.

LifeSciKY is a nonprofit life sciences incubator providing shared lab space, equipment, and support to early-stage life sciences companies. They are building a stronger, more connected life sciences ecosystem in the Commonwealth: one company, one breakthrough, and one opportunity at a time.

Red Hawk Technologies is an AI-first custom software development firm serving mid-market organizations with secure, scalable, user-centered digital solutions. We partner to prototype, design, develop, modernize, secure, and support applications that drive efficiency and growth. With expertise in AI, cloud, mobile, and enterprise systems, we deliver tailored technology aligned to business goals and lasting impact across industries nationwide and support long-term success.

TradesNKY is a nonprofit workforce development initiative that connects students with high-demand skilled trades careers through hands-on experiences, industry partnerships, and career exploration opportunities. It aims to strengthen the regional workforce by aligning early education with employer needs and creating clear pathways into well-paying, in-demand trade professions.

COOL PLACE TO WORK FINALISTS

City Wide Facility Solutions simplifies commercial maintenance and janitorial services with a single point of contact, helping businesses across Northern Kentucky and Cincinnati operate more efficiently. With 23+ years of experience, we deliver reliable, high-quality solutions tailored to your facility’s needs—trusted to keep your operations running at their best every day.

Excelsior provides outsourced accounting services to nonprofits, mid-sized companies and growth-oriented small businesses throughout the Northern Kentucky / Cincinnati region and beyond. Founded in 2018, Excelsior has grown to a team of over 30 professionals, all built on a simple golden rule: that happy employees make happy clients. In caring for their people, their community, and clients who share their “people over profit” values, Excelsior has cultivated exceptionally high employee and client retention — with over $1 million in lifetime fee discounts provided to their nonprofit clients along the way.

Fort Thomas Coffee is the place to be for connection, craft coffee, and bougie cocktails. This thoughtfully designed community hub supports a variety intentions across generations from studying to play to business and friendship.

TENTE is a 100-year-old global leader in caster and mobility solutions for the medical and institutional markets, and our success is built on the strength and commitment of our people. We focus on employee success through internal growth opportunities, a strong culture of recognition, open communication, and a supportive, family-oriented environment where employees feel valued and empowered. By connecting employees to meaningful work and community impact through initiatives like TENTE Cares, we foster engagement, loyalty, and productivity by ensuring people know their contributions truly make a difference.

Award sponsored by

Villa Madonna Academy High School is a Catholic, award-winning high school where teachers and staff thrive in a culture of trust, collaboration, and joy. They are empowered as leaders, supported in innovation, and intentionally recognized and appreciated. With strong camaraderie, creative traditions, and lots of fun along the way, Villa is a place where everyone feels valued and energized.

START-UP FINALISTS

4 Hounds Gear and Grooming is a local, family-owned pet supply and fullservice grooming business located in Covington. Our mission is simple: help you, help your pet look and feel their best inside and out from our carefully curated pet foods, treats, and gear to our expert grooming personalized to your pet.

Homewood Suites Newport, developed by Corporex as part of Ovation, elevates NKY hospitality by welcoming travelers who fuel local business growth and riverfront activity. With spacious suites, warm service, and HighNote Rooftop Bar—Cincinnati Magazine’s 2026 Readers’ Choice Best New Bar—it provides a vibrant, walkable stay that strengthens the Cincinnati–NKY visitor experience and supports long-term community vitality.

At Prime Car Wash our mission is to deliver a complete clean, inside and out. This commitment drives everything we do, from our highly trained team to our use of advanced technology. We efficiently provide high quality cleaning services and an elevated experience, ensuring every car gets the care it truly deserves.

Risen Electric is a licensed and insured electrical contractor serving Northern Kentucky and Greater Cincinnati. We specialize in residential and commercial service, troubleshooting, and installations with a focus on quality and reliability.

Award sponsored by

Signature Outdoor Solutions, founded in 2024, delivers reliable, high-quality landscaping and outdoor services for residential and commercial properties. Built on integrity, clear communication, and strong relationships, we provide maintenance, installations, landscaping, hardscaping, snow removal, and more—helping you embrace the outdoors while keeping your property looking its best year-round with dependable, professional care.

EVENT SPONSORS

FamilyCare Counseling Solutions, LLC is a behavioral health agency dedicated to providing high-quality, client-centered mental health services to individuals and families. We offer a range of outpatient and school-based programs designed to support emotional well-being, promote resilience, and improve overall functioning. At FamilyCare, our Bridge Program was built for families at risk of removal from the home, providing mental health counseling, substance use treatment, trauma-focused therapy, and case management—all designed to support the entire family system. We proudly serve families with Medicaid and those involved in child protection services or the court system, delivering care with respect, dignity, and no judgment, because we believe everyone deserves support—no matter their situation.

Perfetti Van Melle USA is part of the world’s largest confectionery manufacturer, creating Innovative Treats and a Better Future. Well-known USA brands include Airheads, Mentos, and Chupa Chups. In Northern Kentucky, Perfetti’s proud long-time presence includes a factory, offices, and distribution center in Erlanger, employing more than 600 people. They are proud to make life sweeter for employees and the community.

PNC Bank is a coast-to-coast franchise with an extensive retail branch network and a presence in the country’s 30 largest markets including in Greater Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. For nearly 160 years, the steadfast, reliable, and responsible manner that PNC has conducted its business has led to brilliant outcomes for its customers, communities, and employees. PNC is one of the largest national banks, providing retail banking (including residential mortgage), corporate and institutional banking, and asset management services to individuals, institutions, and businesses of all sizes.

Red Hawk Technologies, LLC is an AI-first custom software development firm serving midmarket organizations with secure, scalable, user-centered digital solutions. We partner to prototype, design, develop, modernize, secure, and support applications that drive efficiency and growth. With expertise in AI, cloud, mobile, and enterprise systems, we deliver tailored technology aligned to business goals and lasting impact across industries nationwide and support long-term success.

Verst Logistics is proudly celebrating 60 years as a family-owned logistics provider offering omnichannel fulfillment, warehousing, packaging, and transportation solutions. The company operates more than 7.6 million square feet of strategically located warehouse space nationwide and is known for combining deep industry expertise with technology-driven efficiency. It prides itself on long-standing stability, job creation, and unwavering commitment to the Northern Kentucky community.

Thank you

Business Impact Awards Committee and Judges

Lynn Abeln, Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce

Mike Ballenger, Dean Dorton

Angel Beets, Gilman Partners

Molly Berrens, Spotted Yeti Media

Brittany Bischoff, Excelsior Accounting Services

Shannan Boyer, Scooter Media Company, LLC

Kevin Brummer, Global Business Solutions, Inc.

Dan Cahill, HSD Metrics

Brent Degenhardt, City Wide Facility Solutions

Yvan Demosthenes, HamiltonDemo

Gina Douthat, Transit Authority of Northern Kentucky (TANK)

Kyle Frizzell, Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce

Hank Heidrich, Fifth Third Bank

Julie Hopkins, Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center

Tony Johnson, Huntington Bank

Andy Johnston, Heritage Bank

David Kay, Fifth Third Bank

Joe Klare, Catalytic Development Funding Corp. of Northern Kentucky

Melissa Lutz, Champlin | EOP

Diana McGlade, Northern Kentucky Chamber of Commerce

Kyle Shumate, Clark Schaefer Hackett

Anna Wright, Prysmian

Jay Wuest, PNC Bank

We’re big fans of people who look out for people.

Congratulations to the 2026 Business Impact Awards winners and nominees on a job well done. Hard work doesn’t always get the recognition it deserves, so when it makes a community better, we take notice. We appreciate all your efforts, and keep making us stronger.