North Florida Business Leaders Recognized During 34th Annual Small Business Week Celebration

June 2, 2026

The Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at the University of North Florida, in partnership with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), celebrated the achievements of North Florida’s small business community during the 34th Annual Small Business Week Celebration held on May 5, 2026, at the UNF Adam Herbert University Center.

The annual event welcomed more than 120 entrepreneurs, business leaders, lenders, and community partners from across the region to recognize the vital contributions small businesses make to economic growth, job creation, and community development throughout North Florida.

The evening featured the presentation of SBA Small Business Week Awards and Top Lender Awards, honoring business owners whose innovation, leadership, and commitment to excellence have made a significant impact on Florida’s economy.

Among the distinguished 2026 award recipients were:

  • Small Businessperson of the Year (State of Florida and North Florida District Winner) – Sunshine Rail Services, owned by Doug Fournier of Palatka

  • Small Business Manufacturer of the Year (North Florida District Winner) – EZ Automation Systems, owned by Ahmed Tawfik of Jacksonville

  • Rural Small Business of the Year (State of Florida and North Florida District Winner) – Gator Bait Sports Bar, owned by Stephanie Gaither of Melrose

  • Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year (State of Florida and North Florida District Winner) – Code Ninjas, owned by Ryan Clark of St. Augustine

The recognition of St. Augustine-based Code Ninjas highlights the strength and entrepreneurial spirit of St. Johns County’s small business community. Veteran-owned businesses continue to play an important role in the county’s economy, contributing to workforce development, innovation, and local investment.

“It’s always great to see so many small business owners, partners, and lenders come together in one room,” said Marge Cirillo, Senior Business Consultant for the SBDC at UNF in St. Johns County. “Nights like this really show how strong and connected our North Florida business community is, and why small businesses are such a big part of what keeps our economy moving.”

Small Business Week serves as a reminder of the critical role entrepreneurs and small businesses play in creating jobs, supporting local communities, and driving long-term economic prosperity throughout the region. Through ongoing partnerships between organizations such as the SBDC, SBA, local governments, and financial institutions, North Florida continues to foster an environment where businesses can start, grow, and succeed.

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