The Business Council of Alabama and the Chamber of Commerce Association of Alabama have honored four companies with the 2024 Alabama Small Business of the Year awards. The four winners are Anderson Family Care, Wiregrass Wealth Management, Johnny’s Bar-B-Q and WM Grocery.
“BCA is dedicated to supporting businesses of all sizes, but we recognize that small businesses play a vital role in shaping the fabric of Alabama. Their contributions not only drive our economy but also foster community spirit and connection,” said Helena Duncan, president and CEO of the BCA.
The awards, which were presented Tuesday at The Club in Birmingham, celebrated the 40 finalists and their impact on their local communities. Local chambers of commerce submitted the nominations and finalists were evaluated by a panel of out-of-state judges based on each business’ community involvement, chamber participation, business success and deservedness.
This year’s award winners are:
Emerging Small Business of the Year: Anderson Family Care, a health care provider in Demopolis that focuses on wellness, prevention and the management of chronic conditions. The provider also offers opportunities to students interested in the medical field. The silver award in this category went to InSight Strategic Solutions and taking the bronze award was Blueprint Taxes & Services.
Small Business of the Year (1-10 employees): Wiregrass Wealth Management has more than 15 years of experience in the investment industry. Founded by John Ruddock and Adam Thomas, the wealth management company has partnered with Raymond James to offer clients access to a range of investment products and services. Coming in second was Stephen’s Hotdog Wagon and taking third place was adr Business & Marketing Strategies.
Small Business of the Year (11-50 employees): Johnny’s Bar-B-Q, in Cullman, has been serving customers for more than 60 years. Founded by Johnny Graves, the restaurant was sold in 1963 to Troy and Aleata Wiggins, who ran it until Troy Wiggins’ retirement in 1983. Their son, Gary Wiggins, who joined the business full time in 1981, partnered with his cousin, Ronald Dunn, to carry on the family business. Now, in its third generation, Johnny’s Bar-B-Q is managed by Gary’s son, Josh Wiggins, who took the reins in 2006. Taking the silver award was Boostr Digital Displays and the bronze award went to Personnel Resources.
Small Business of the Year (51-100 employees): WM Grocery is a family-owned company with multiple locations close to the Georgia state line. It offers high-quality food products and staples, along with some specialty items. Taking the silver award was Sand Mountain Toyota and the bronze award went to Heritage South Credit Union.
