Sweets & Meats Wins Ohio Small Business Person of the Year
Cincinnati-based Sweets and Meats LLC, has earned state recognition as the 2019 U.S. Small Business Administration’s Ohio Small Business Person of the Year and is being considered for SBA’s national award. Led by Kristen Bailey, Sweets and Meats is family-owned and specializes in smoked meats, homemade sides and desserts. SBA Administrator Linda McMahon will recognize Kristen for her company’s achievements at the National Small Business Week ceremonies in Washington, D.C., on May 5-6, where Bailey may be named National Small Business Person of the Year.
“Kristen’s story highlights the dedication and drive that entrepreneurs must possess in order to succeed,” said Columbus District Director Everett Woodel Jr. “During National Small Business Week, we honor small business owners like Kristen, who have improved their communities, providing local jobs and unique products and services.”
“I think the business has brought the local community closer together,” said Bailey. “Giving back has always been a big part of why I became an entrepreneur and I’m truly honored to represent Ohio small businesses during National Small Business Week.”
Since 1963, National Small Business Week, which is May 5 to 11 this year, has been set aside by the President to recognize the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.
ResultIn 2014, Bailey started her business with a smoker, $500 and a volunteer workforce. With the help of SBA small business resources like SCORE, the Ohio Small Business Development Center network and an SBA-guaranteed loan through Celtic Bank, Sweets and Meats has expanded to include two food trucks, catering services and a brick and mortar building.
Kristen’s relationship-driven business strategy has helped her grow business sales from $42,000 to a projected $440,000 in four years. She has gone from a volunteer workforce to 11 staff members, with an emphasis on hard-to-hire local employees.