Nominees for the woman-owned business award include Duffy’s Cleaners, Schrader Realty and Sign Pro Imaging.
LIMA — The Lima/Allen County Chamber of Commerce will soon honor several area businesses.
On Wednesday, the organization will choose a Women-owned business of the year. The award is sponsored by Huntington National Bank. To qualify for the award, the business must be 51% woman-owned.
“The business must be financially strong and show a history of profitability,” President Rick Kortokrax said at a recent chamber press conference. “The business principal and organization must have demonstrated community development of civic contributions.”
The business also must have less than 150 employees. This year, Duffy’s Cleaners Inc., Schrader Realty and Sign Pro Imaging Inc. were finalists.
Kimberly Duff owns and operates Duffy’s Cleaners. Krista Schrader owns and operates Schrader Realty. Michelle Sterling owns and operates Sign Pro Imaging Inc.
Duffy’s Cleaners opened in 1998 as a dry cleaner. The business was also owned by Kimberly’s husband Ken, who passed away in 2017. The organization gave back to the community by serving on various boards. Duffy’s Cleaners has also donates to non-profits. During the school year, Duffy’s donates unwanted prom dresses to those in need.
Schrader Realty began in 2009. The company grew to have several offices in Delphos, Lima and Van Wert. The organization also has 11 female Realtors who work for the business. Schrader Realty gives back to the community by volunteering at non-profits including Kiwanis Club, Rotary Club, local churches and more. The business also started a program titled ‘Schrader Shares’. The program has given over $56,000 back to the community.
Sign Pro Imaging Inc. opened its doors 27 years ago. The organization creates signage and marketing tools for other companies. The business gives back to the community through monetary donations and rewarding local students for their creativity in design.
The winner will be announced at the gala at 6 p.m. on Wednesday, May 1, at the UNOH Event Center, 1450 N. Cable Road, Lima.
Reach Precious Grundy at 567-242-0351.
