The Jefferson Chamber is proud to announce that two of its members have been honored with 2015 U.S. Chamber of Commerce Blue Ribbon Small Business Awards for their success, innovation, and contributions to economic growth and free enterprise. Strategic Planning Associates, LLC of Metairie and Cook Me Somethin’ Mister of New Orleans were recognized as the only two Blue Ribbon Award Winners from Louisiana.
One hundred winners were selected from a record number of applicants from communities across the nation and evaluated in four key areas including strategic planning, employee development, community involvement, and customer service.
“While our economy still struggles to reach its full potential, small businesses like our Blue Ribbon Award winners have continued to act as examples of the resilience, ingenuity, and opportunity at work in the free enterprise system,” U.S. Chamber President and CEO Thomas J. Donohue said. “Times can be tough, but these businesses have proven that they can be too. And by taking risks, watching out for their employees, and giving back to their communities, they’ve shown that success is achievable.”
About Strategic Planning Associates, LLC: Founded by Charlotte Burnell in Jefferson Parish in 1998. In its early years, the company was known for working with local, state and federal agencies, performing management consulting, project management, new business development and grant services. Following Hurricane Katrina, in an effort to expand their services, SPA obtained a variety of Louisiana construction licenses, including heavy construction, roads and bridges, and commercial building. These additional services allowed the company to grow revenue to approximately $4 million. SPA received recognition from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and was selected as a Small Business Champion for Southeast Louisiana by the Small Business Administration. To learn more about Strategic Planning Associates, please call (504) 455-2842.
About Cook Me Somethin’ Mister: “Cook Me Somethin’ Mister” is a New Orleans brand for food products. The first item in their line is a seasoned Jambalaya Rice that is packaged for retail and foodservice and is currently distributed in six states, including 10 warehouse clubs, 5 national foodservice distributors and over 100 grocery stores and specialty stores. Their products are proudly made in New Orleans and are specially blended by Chef Paul Prudhomme’s Magic Seasoning Blends. The CEO/Owner, Kristen Preau, is also known as New Orleans’ own “Jambalaya Girl.” She created this business from her Dad’s jambalaya recipe and her caricature is recognizable on all product packaging by her signature fork earrings. To learn more about Cook Me Something Mister LLC, please visit www.cookmesomethinmister.com.
The U.S. Chamber will announce seven regional finalists from among this year’s Blue Ribbon Small Business Award® winners on March 19 and will honor all of this year’s winners at the 11th annual America’s Small Business Summit, taking place June 8 – 10 in Washington, D.C. During the summit, one regional finalist will receive the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Sam’s Club®, and a $10,000 cash prize courtesy of the U.S. Chamber.
All Blue Ribbon Award winners are also eligible for the Community Excellence Award, which recognizes one business that has found notable success in the eyes of its community, generously giving of its time, resources, and expertise. The winner will be decided through online public voting between February 19 and March 4.
