Savannah Standard

The Savannah Area Chamber of Commerce recently held its annual Chamber Business Awards, recognizing the significant contributions of local businesses and community leaders. Six companies were honored for their commitment to hospitality, advocacy, community service, and entrepreneurial success.

Bert Brantley, president and CEO of the Savannah Chamber, stated: “Our business community is filled with innovators, advocates, and industry leaders. These awards, nominated by our membership, highlight some of the most dedicated professionals shaping Savannah’s future. This year’s winners exemplify our city’s thriving business landscape and commitment to excellence.”

The 2024/2025 Chamber Business Awards winners include:

Gulfstream Community Involvement Award was presented to The Parker Companies. Greg Parker founded the company in 1976 in Midway, Georgia. It now operates over 80 locations and has donated more than $30 million to charitable causes across coastal Georgia and South Carolina.

Small Business Advocate of The Year went to Bunny Ware from Bunny in the City. For over two decades, Ware has promoted local businesses through her media work.

The Cornerstone Award was given to Second Harvest of Coastal Georgia for distributing 25 million pounds of food annually across 21 counties with partnerships involving over 264 nonprofit organizations.

Hospitality Business of The Year Award was awarded to Green-Meldrim House for its role as a historical landmark contributing significantly to Savannah's tourism industry.

Entrepreneurs of The Year were Jan and Todd Womble from Savannah Logistics Group. Since starting in 2017 with four trucks, they have expanded their business significantly and launched Big Rig University in 2022.

Small Business of The Year was awarded to Diaspora Marketplace by Richard Shinhoster. Founded in 2002 after a trip to Ghana inspired Shinhoster’s appreciation for Ghanaian art; it supports artisans from Africa and the Caribbean.

The chamber extended congratulations to all winners and finalists for their roles in enhancing the local economy and community spirit. Thanks were also given to sponsors Gulfstream, Georgia Power, Savannah Technical College, and Verizon for making this event possible.