2026 Business of the Year Award Winners Announced
The South Tampa Chamber proudly recognized the region's most outstanding businesses, organizations, and professionals during its annual Business of the Year Awards, held June 18, 2026, at The Westshore Grand.
Presented during the Chamber's Centennial Year, the awards celebrated excellence in business, leadership, innovation, community impact, and service throughout South Tampa and the greater Tampa Bay region.
This year's awards program attracted a record 96 nominations and applications, which were narrowed to 38 finalists across 13 categories through a competitive review process conducted by an independent panel of judges.
"The Business of the Year Awards recognize the organizations and individuals who are driving our economy, strengthening our community, and helping make South Tampa the best place to live, work, and play," said Kelly Flannery, President & CEO of the South Tampa Chamber. "During our 100th anniversary year, it is especially meaningful to celebrate the businesses and leaders whose commitment to excellence continue to shape our community's future."
The COMPASS Award was presented to Feeding Tampa Bay in recognition of the organization's exceptional leadership, vision, and lasting impact on the Tampa Bay community.
The 2026 Business of the Year Award recipients are:
Small Business of the Year
For the Bay Clothing Co.
Medium Business of the Year
Florida Firearms Academy
Large Business of the Year
Bubble Down Car Wash
Franchise Business of the Year
Paul Davis Restoration of Tampa
Solo Entrepreneur of the Year
The Food Whisperer
Emerging Business of the Year
Cheeseology
Innovation Award
TomCo Solutions
Community Impact Award
Socially Funded
Minority-Owned Business of the Year
Pia Esthetics and Day Spa
Small Non-Profit of the Year
HeartDance Foundation, Inc.
Large Non-Profit of the Year
Girl Scouts of West Central Florida, Inc.
Young Professional of the Year
Shay Romine, Author and Chief People Officer
Business Leader of the Year
Jason Baker, Tampa Bay Business & Wealth
The South Tampa Chamber extends its congratulations to all finalists and winners and thanks the sponsors, judges, volunteers, and community partners who made the event possible.
The Chamber also extends its appreciation to the event sponsors, award presenters, and Business of the Year Committee members whose dedication helped make this year's program a success.
For more information about the South Tampa Chamber and its programs, visit SouthTampaChamber.org,
About the South Tampa Chamber:
Founded in 1926, the South Tampa Chamber is celebrating 100 years of serving the business community. The Chamber's mission is to provide a forum which connects members, enhances commerce, and enriches the South Tampa community. Representing nearly 700 businesses and organizations, the Chamber serves as a catalyst for economic growth, business success, leadership development, and community engagement throughout South Tampa and the Tampa Bay region.
