Before the reality is the dream. That one sentence or phrase is more than just philosophical for entrepreneurs who eventually go on to start and run businesses. Those words capture everything from the idea to the rough draft of a business plan. Therefore, when those fledgling businesses start, take root, and grow, it’s worth noting and celebrating.

Our Superstars in Business awards luncheon is just that—a celebration of small businesses that form the backbone of our economy. Yes, the “big guys” get all the notoriety, especially the publicly traded companies. But it’s the millions of small businesses that employ half of the full-time working adults in our state, while providing meaningful products and services with the hope of growing into something bigger one day.

This year’s winners are a great group, and I congratulate them and all who applied. Our nonprofit winner, the Delaware Nature Society, is celebrating its 60th year, and what a great way to celebrate! Courageous Hearts is our winner in the 1-14 employee category. The company uses equine therapy to assist people in various ways to manage their mental health. RiversEdge Advisors helps individuals and companies with a wide variety of services to achieve financial goals, plans, and strategies. Finally, twenty years ago, the first Surf Bagel location opened its doors in Lewes and has since grown to four locations in southern Delaware, with two more on the way. I admit to being a big fan and, hey, who doesn’t love a toasted everything bagel with a little cream cheese, lox, some onions, and a slice of tomato!

The contributions to our state and communities by our winners and all who applied for the Superstar recognition should be priased and honored. I encourage you to join us on November 6 to celebrate these organizations and the small business community as a whole. You will also hear from DSCC Board of Directors member and keynote Mike Meoli who owns and operates 25 (and counting!) McDonald's restaurants across the Delmarva Peninsula.