News Summary
The Small Business Administration presented four distinguished awards to local business owners during an annual ceremony in Fairmont, highlighting their contributions to the community. SBA Regional Administrator Jim Spencer emphasized the crucial role of small businesses in West Virginia’s economy, accounting for nearly all U.S. businesses. The honorees included outstanding individuals across various categories, showcasing the vibrant spirit of entrepreneurship in the state and motivating future business leaders.
West Virginia—The Small Business Administration (SBA) recognized four exceptional small business owners during its 2025 award ceremony held on Wednesday at the Robert H. Mollohan Research Center in Fairmont. This annual event is a highlight of Small Business Week, which honors local entrepreneurs and their vital contributions to the community.
SBA Mid-Atlantic Regional Administrator Jim Spencer served as the host for the ceremony, delivering a keynote speech that underscored the significance of small businesses in the state’s economy. According to Spencer, small businesses account for 98 to 99 percent of all U.S. businesses, solidifying their status as the backbone of the economy in West Virginia.
This year’s award winners included:
- Sheila Hartley, owner of spaOasis, who was named the West Virginia Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year.
- Cathy Jo Higgins of The Developmental Advantage, recognized as the 2025 West Virginia SBA Small Business Person of the Year.
- Jason Wilburn and Annabelle Javier from Paul Wissmach Glass Company, who received the 2025 West Virginia SBA Small Business Exporter of the Year Award.
- Marcus Hatfield of Hatfield Family Distillery, honored as the 2025 West Virginia SBA Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year.
Sheila Hartley founded spaOasis in 2017, focusing on an integrative approach to wellness that encompasses physical health, nutrition, and spiritual well-being. In her remarks, Hartley expressed appreciation for the recognition and acknowledged the invaluable support from her business coach at the West Virginia Small Business Development Center (SBDC).
During his address, Spencer encouraged aspiring entrepreneurs to view entrepreneurship as a worthy career option, noting its essential role in fostering community growth and strengthening the economy. The awards ceremony attracted dozens of people, all gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of local business owners and acknowledge the profound impact of small businesses on their communities.
The SBA’s recognition of these businesses reflects a broader commitment to supporting entrepreneurship and small business development across the state. Small businesses play an integral role in job creation and economic diversification, serving as cornerstones of local economies. The awards ceremony not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the collaborative spirit among small business owners and support organizations dedicated to their success.
As Small Business Week unfolds, events like these serve to inspire and motivate future entrepreneurs, demonstrating the potential for growth and success within West Virginia’s local business landscape. The collective efforts of award winners, along with support from institutions like the SBA and SBDC, help ensure that small businesses not only survive but thrive.
The SBA encourages anyone interested in starting a small business to engage with regional resources, including mentorship programs and workshops aimed at building necessary skills and knowledge. With continued dedication and support, the spirit of entrepreneurship in West Virginia has the potential to flourish in the years to come.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
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- Wikipedia: Small Business
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- Encyclopedia Britannica: Small Business
- Google Scholar: Small Business West Virginia
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