Thinking Bigger Business—25 Under 25® Supplement, Feb. 2017 by Thinking Bigger Business Magazine

Think Bigger. Take Flight.

1 6 t h a n n u a l 2 5 u n d e r 2 5 ® a w a r d s :: M a r c h 4 , 2 0 1 7

“A mile of highway will take you a mile. A mile of runway will take you anywhere.” -Unknown

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WE ARE PROUD TO HAVE YOU JOIN US AS ONE OF KANSAS CITY’S 25 UNDER 25® HONOREES. KEEP YOUR ENTREPRENEURIAL VISION SHARP.

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THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

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25 U N D E R 25 :: 2017 :: THE BIGGER PICTURE

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE 25 UNDER 25 CLASS OF 2017! ®

Many thanks to all who generously support the 25 Under 25®

ur theme for this 16th annual event is “Think Bigger. Take Flight.” That’s certainly something that each of

program—our sponsors, 25 Under 25® alumni, advisory board

you put into practice each day.

members, nominators and a host of other supporters who’ve

It’s easy to talk about ideas. A lot of people do. But it takes

given the money, time and resources that it takes to put a pro-

a different kind of person to act on an idea and actually

gram like this on year after year.

get it off the ground—to guide it through take off and then

Please come out and help us celebrate the Class of 2017 on

pilot it to its ultimate destination. That’s what each of you

Sat., March 4, at 6 p.m. at the Downtown Marriott’s Count Basie

has done. You’ve taken your ideas, acted on them and turned them into successful businesses. And, Kansas City has soared to new

Ballroom. Tickets and table sponsors are available through our event

heights because of your efforts.

website at www.25Under25.com. We can’t wait to see you!

Kelly Scanlon

2017 ENTREPRENEURIAL LEGACY AWARD HONOREE 04

Bob Regnier The Regnier Family Foundation

Meet the Judges Six of the city’s leading small business advocates selected this year’s honorees.

25 UNDER 25 AWARD HONOREES ®

kscanlon@iThinkBigger.com

Certified Radon

MindLift

DuBois Consultants Inc.

Plasterkraft

ER Marketing

SafeDefend

Fortiviti

Sage Communications

Generator Studio

SARIN Energy Solutions

Hartline Construction LLC

Sphere3

Hitch Fit

STRATA Architecture + Preservation

International Express Trucking Inc.

Superior Disposal Service Inc.

PANEL OF JUDGES 06

Publisher

Artistic Concrete Surfaces LLC

J. Rieger & Co.

Towner Communications LLC

BioStar Lighting LLC

Kansas City Bier Company LLC

Treadwell

Brown Button Estate Sale Services

Lever1

Worldwide Innovations & Technologies Inc.

SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

Banking on Future Generations of Entrepreneurs IT’S HARD TO IMAGINE WHERE KANSAS CITY WOULD BE WITHOUT THE REGNIER FAMILY.

he late Victor L. Regnier, backed by his wife, Helen, was one of Johnson County’s most successful real estate developers. He created the iconic Ranch Mart Shopping Center, and the homes they built helped turn JoCo’s sleepy bedroom community into an economic powerhouse. Though Helen and Victor are gone now, the Regnier Family Foundation—overseen by 4

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

Helen and Victor’s children, Victor A., Bob and Catherine—continues to build up Kansas City, especially its entrepreneurs. Because of their commitment to investing in our shared future, Thinking Bigger Business Media is proud to present the Regnier family with the 2017 Entrepreneurial Legacy Award. The honor is given at the 25 Under 25® Awards Dinner and Gala to an individual or individu-

als who have made a lasting contribution to Kansas City’s entrepreneurial community. “My dad was a classic entrepreneur,” said Bob Regnier, an entrepreneur himself, having founded Bank of Blue Valley. “He was a guy who got out there and went after it every day, seven days a week.” And now the family is making it possible for another generation to pursue their business dreams. In 2012, the foundation donated $3 million to the University of Missouri-Kansas City, endowing what is now known as the Regnier Institute for Entrepreneurship and Innovation.

The institute, part of the Bloch School, makes a wide spectrum of training and support available to the Kansas City region’s up-and-coming ventures. Its flagship offering is the Entrepreneur Scholars (E-Scholars) program, which has equipped a virtual army of aspiring business owners with the training they need to succeed. LendingStandard, Mobility Designed, Integrated Roadways and other award-winning young companies are all E-Scholars graduates. Every spring, the institute hosts the Regnier Venture Creation Challenge, a business-plan competition that awards thousands of dollars to young companies—$55,000 last spring alone. That prize money is often vital to the winners, giving them the fuel to keep building their businesses. But the Regniers’ support goes beyond funding, said Jeff Hornsby, interim director of the institute. Bob Regnier regularly serves as a guest speaker, contest judge and adviser at the school. If a fledgling entrepreneur needs advice or an introduction, Bob is always at the ready. “He’s one of our best people, and he never ceases to amaze me,” Hornsby said.

“... He doesn’t have to do that, but that’s part of his DNA.” While Bob Regnier has a lot of affection for small business owners, he’s clear about the logic of nurturing the community’s up-andcoming companies: The bulk of new U.S. jobs are created by younger, smaller ventures. “I am heart-attack serious when I say it is the future of our country,” he said. Across the state line, the Regnier Family Foundation has been a leading donor to Johnson County Community College. It provided a $5 million challenge grant for the Regnier Center building, which introduced expanded space for IT and business programs, including the Kansas Small Business Development Center. The foundation gave $3 million for a major expansion at the KU Edwards campus, and $4 million for an expansion and renovation of K-State’s College of Architecture, Planning & Design in Manhattan. By investing in higher education and a trained workforce, the foundation is creating the necessary elements for the ventures of the future. Building up Kansas City, after all, is something of a family tradition.

ABOUT THE AWARD Every year at the 25 Under 25® Awards Dinner and Gala, Thinking Bigger Business Media presents the Entrepreneurial Legacy Award to an individual who has made lasting contributions to the entrepreneurial community. In recognition of Bob Regnier’s service and example, Thinking Bigger Business Media is honored to present him with the 2017 Entrepreneurial Legacy Award.

“This is just a great town,” Bob Regnier said. “… I can’t think of a better, more welcoming environment than Kansas City to start a new business.” James Hart Is a freelance writer in the Kansas City area.

WE WANT TO BE THE BANK BEHIND THE LOAN BEHIND THE NEXT 25 UNDER 25 HONOREE. The bank built on entrepreneurial spirit congratulates bank customers Hartline Construction, Fortiviti and Brown Button Estate Sale Services on this year’s 25 Under 25®. As well as our founder Bob Regnier on being awarded this year’s Entrepreneurial Legacy Award.

COMMUNITY | PHILANTHROPY | ENTREPRENEURSHIP SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

2 5 U N D E R 2 5 : : 2 0 1 7 : : JUDGES

KATHEIGH HULL DEGEN

DANIEL KJERGAARD, CPA

Co-Owner :: Twin Financial Inc.

Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C. :: Lead Managing Director :: CBIZ MHM LLC

With more than 30 years of financial services experience, Katheigh Hull Degen has helped hundreds of clients discover their potential to build wealth, create security and live their dreams. With her twin sister, Raleigh, Katheigh founded Twin Financial in 1988. Their complementary expertise in asset protection (Katheigh) and wealth accumulation (Raleigh) helps ensure clients always receive a comprehensive view of their financial status. DARREN DUPRIEST President and CEO :: Validity Screening Solutions

Darren Dupriest is the owner of Validity Screening Solutions (25 Under 25® Class of 2010), an information technology company specializing in employment screening and drug testing. After a stint with the Federal Bureau of Investigation, Darren created an employment screening division for a national investigative and security consulting firm. He later acquired that entity and rebranded it as Validity. Darren is a founding member of the National Association of Professional Background Screeners (NAPBS).

Daniel Kjergaard serves as a managing director in CBIZ’s Kansas City office. Kjergaard provides tax and consulting services for primarily small to medium-sized clients in a variety of industries. Kjergaard serves on boards and is a member of several community service agencies and professional organizations. RACHEL HACK MERLO Community Impact Manager—Kansas City :: Google

Rachel Hack Merlo is Google’s community impact manager, serving as a liaison between the many organizations and leaders in Kansas City with an interest in the ultra highspeed Google Fiber project and

the Google Fiber team. She also oversees community affairs for Google in the Greater Kansas City area, focusing on outreach related to digital inclusion, STEM education and entrepreneurial/ startup community initiatives. MICHELLE WORD Manager of Supplier Diversity :: Burns & McDonnell

Michelle Word is manager of supplier diversity for Burns & McDonnell. She is responsible for assisting in sourcing and utilizing diverse businesses with expertise in performing the scopes of work necessary to support specific projects. Michelle actively participates in several organizations with a goal to increase business development opportunities between majority and diverse businesses, such as the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce of Greater Kansas City, the Asian American Chamber of Commerce, the Minority Contractors Association and the Mountain Plains Minority Business Development Council, among others.

Congratulations to two of our top customers, in the 2017 Class of 25 Under 25

ALAN FARRIS Senior Vice President and Kansas City Market Manager :: Landmark National Bank

Alan Farris is senior vice president and Kansas City market manager for Landmark National Bank, where he coordinates all aspects of commercial banking. Alan sits on the board of the Center Education Foundation, which helps to support the teachers and students of the Center School District, Alan’s alma mater and has served on numerous civic and business boards.

These two honorees exemplify the kind of outstanding contributions to the Greater Kansas City’s small business economy that will carry us into a strong and vibrant 2017. We applaud your commitment to being the best!

23600 College Boulevard 913.971.1400 18675 West 151st Street 913.254.0505

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THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017 BOP Congrats Ad.indd 1

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25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

ARTISTIC CONCRETE SURFACES LLC Mike Denny Spring Hill, KS 21 employees KansasCityConcrete.com

A father-son team that got its start in 2005 working out of a garage in Stilwell, Kan., doing concrete overlays, listened to their customer’s demands and evolved with the changing marketplace. As a result, Artistic Concrete Surfaces is now the premier installer for commercial concrete polishing, commercial and residential pool construction, residential driveways, patios, and backyard design and installation that includes outdoor kitchens, fire features and waterfalls. The company’s work is 70 percent residential and 30 percent commercial. Growth has meant the addition of crews and support staff that has boosted the employee count to 21. The garage has given way to a large facility in Spring Hill, Kan., that accommodates sales staff and a display space that also doubles as the outdoor venue for their event space, The Bowery. Denny noted that one of the biggest lessons he learned is that “business is business.” Still, he is a big picture thinker who fosters a family-like culture in the workplace. He not only encourages his staff to be innovative and to try new ideas for the business, he urges them to become involved in philanthropic projects in the community.

BIOSTAR LIGHTING LLC Bill Love Overland Park, KS 21 employees BioStarLighting.com

BioStar Lighting was founded in 2010, and acquired by Bill Love’s BioStar Renewables family in 2014, and has grown into a national provider of turnkey energy efficiency solutions. The company specializes in LED lighting upgrades, mechanical equipment upgrades, automation and industrial optimization, with solar, biogas or CHP energy production, the company both produces and reduces electrical kilowatt hours. Love said that because of companies like BioStar, Missouri moved up 12 places on the State Energy Efficiency Scorecard in 2016. A game changer in BioStar’s growth was the introduction of financing options. Love

recognized that a big challenge for potential customers was the upfront cost of energy upgrades. BioStar’s financing solutions spread the cost to customers over time so they are cash flow positive at the first flip of a switch. BioStar now has offices in and salespeople in five states and has completed more than 250 energy efficiency projects in 24 states. Among BioStar’s clients are Hallmark, MC Realty, Block Real Estate and the Tutera Group. The company’s high customer service standards and turnkey solutions have resulted in a high customer retention rate— with some customers even turning BioStar’s competitors away at the door! “ The team at BioStar is united through a commitment to reducing our country’s energy use. Because our headquarters are in the Kansas City metro, we are particularly committed to making Kansas City the most energy efficient city possible.”

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“Success is too often measured by accomplishments. True triumphs are found by measuring all the ways that one has tried and failed.

www.25under25.com

ACS has grown into the company it is today by being bold enough to try new ideas and see where the staff can take them.”

Think Bigger. Take Flight. SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

BROWN BUTTON ESTATE SALE SERVICES Michael and Lindsay Fry, James and Rachelle Fry Kansas City, MO 17 employees BrownButton.com

A bad experience at an estate sale in 2011 inspired the Fry brothers and their wives to start their own estate sale company. With no industry experience, but with a vision to create a company focused on excellent customer service, a winning team culture and efficient use of technology, the couples pooled $4,000 and launched Brown Button Estate Sale Services. Despite the very long hours and a steep learning curve, the Frys soldiered on, eventually developing a target market

with luxury estate sales. Making that shift was a turning point for the young company. In addition to building their company, the Frys set about creating standards in an industry that is largely unlicensed and unregulated. They and nine other quality estate sale operators from around the country launched the National Estate Sales Association—a national nonprofit trade association for the estate sale industry that established national standards for ethical practices. With a proven profit model and having earned a solid reputation for integrity in Kansas City, the Frys now plan to expand into other markets. And, just as they have been intentional about positively impacting their industry, the Frys have also created a company culture and workplace in which their team members can thrive.

“ We believe that intentionally creating a positive company culture is good for business and has an impact on the bottom line.”

Congratulations to our team at

Congratulations to the entire

CERTIFIED RADON Travis Siegfried Kansas City, MO 16 employees CertifiedRadonKC.com

Game-changer. That’s a word that’s been used to describe entrepreneur Travis Siegfried and Certified Radon, the company he founded in 2007 to increase radon awareness and education. Knowing that the general public was mostly unaware of the harmful effects of radon gas exposure, Siegfried saw an opportunity to fill a vital need by starting a company that could test for and mitigate radon in a professional way. Over the last 10 years, Siegfried has built Certified Radon into a leading provider in the Kansas City area by insisting on consistently high standards based on safety, service and professionalism. Staff are encouraged to take ownership in the process, to stand out and to exceed expectations. Technicians are professionally certified, and Siegfried invests in proprietary technologies. When testing reveals high radon levels, the company can provide affordable and reliable options to lower them. To raise awareness and further education about the dangers of radon, Certified Radon often leads community presentations and supports research efforts through fundraising. The company is preparing to break ground on a new location and expand its footprint in the region.

“ Certified Radon was founded on the premise of doing things differently by educating consumers

Class of 2017! certifiedradonkc.com 8

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

with facts, not fear, and professionally certifying all radon service technicians to set higher service standards.”

DUBOIS CONSULTANTS INC. Ajamu K. Webster, PE

ER MARKETING

Kansas City, MO

Elton Mayfield, Renae Gonner Krause

21 employees

Kansas City, MO

DubConInc.com

19 employees ERMarketing.net

Civil and structural engineering firm DuBois Consultants Inc. has its roots in math—literally. The company was founded in 1988 by a team of individuals at the WEB DuBois Learning Center who were committed to tutoring youth who needed help in math. To set an example of teamwork, the group decided to create a viable community business that would employ local residents and assist in restoring the community. Now a family-owned business run by Ajamu Webster, DCI is committed to improving the communities they serve as well as promoting a work environment that fosters individual growth and professional development. DuBois leadership encourages employees to volunteer, including speaking on engineering, tutoring and STEM education, especially in the nearby schools and colleges. The company provides civil and structural design services for water infrastructure, multifamily residential, higher education, commercial and industrial development, recreation and electric utility plants. DCI has teamed with some of the most respected regionally and nationally known architectural and water resource engineering firms, providing design service needs to municipalities, private and public utilities and developers. Other specialized services include manhole inspections and CCTV data collection, concrete rehabilitation and structural evaluations.

The phrase ER Marketing uses to summarize itself is one they borrow from a campaign they created for one of their oldest and largest clients: We Love Building. That’s because the attitude and the tenacity that ERM strives to embody is found in the building industry. A business-to-business marketing firm that specializes in communi-

cating brands, ERM was founded by Elton Mayfield and Renae Gonner Krause to be a “client’s agency.” The founders came from the client side and had always envisioned an agency that understood what it was like to be a client. ERM’s ability to retain clients long-term has led to continued growth that allows the company to give staff four days off each year to give back to the community and to offer a professional development fund for employees to use as desired to grow their skills. The two founders say that the challenges of owning a business are outweighed knowing they’re not just building a company—they’re helping to build futures around them.

“ We love building up our clients’ businesses. We love building our employees into better, more skilled people. We love building on our work so it’s better than it was yesterday. Most of all, we love building our relationships so that we can take on anything—no matter what comes next.”

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“ We are located in a neighborhood where we can lead by example and be visible to the students who pass by every day, where they can see professional engineers and technicians going to work.”

913.384.1212 answerprolimited.com SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

FORTIVITI Shauna Huntington Lenexa, KS 16 employees Fortiviti.com

Technically, Shauna Huntington and the team at Fortiviti offer outsourced accounting and back-office services, helping business owners manage payroll, invoicing, benefits administration and other tasks. But that’s just scratching the surface. What truly the distinguishes the Lenexa company is the commitment it brings to serving entrepreneurs. They “do the extras.” “This came from a client of ours a few years ago, in explanation of what we do and how we do it,” Huntington explained. “‘They do the extras,’ he said. And he was right. We don’t just do

accounting. We care about our clients and their success. We promote them, we connect them, we help them in areas completely outside of accounting, but that contribute to their business and growth.” A few years ago, Huntington made a bold move when she sold her company’s tax practice. That part of the business represented about half of Fortiviti’s revenues, but it took time away from what Huntington’s team did best: handling nitty-gritty operational work for other companies. That risk paid off. In the two years after the sale, Fortiviti did more business than it did in the previous four combined. In 2016 alone, Huntington saw her employee head count double from eight to 16—and according to Huntington, they’re only getting started. “ We legitimately care about our clients and the success of their businesses. … We believe we are a part of their team.”

GENERATOR STUDIO Tom Proebstle and Mike Kress Kansas City, MO 11 employees GeneratorStudio.com

Collaborating and having fun are two vital parts of the culture at Generator Studio, say co-founders Tom Proebstle and Mike Cress, who launched the full-service architecture and interior design firm in 2009. The company specializes in hospitality, corporate office, not-forprofit, high-end residential and sports venue projects. The company’s collaborative approach and insistence on custom design solutions has earned the company a solid industry reputation and fueled growth. Among Generator Studio’s clients are local and national powerhouses such as LANE4 Property Group, the St. Louis Blues, Sun-

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE ENTIRE

25 UNDER 25 CLASS OF 2017

WE ARE HONORED TO SHARE THE STAGE WITH YOU!

THANK YOU! Thank you to our clients and friends who have contributed to Fortiviti’s growth and prosperity over the past 8 years. Without you, our successes would not be possible.

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

flower Development Group and the Alzheimer’s Association. Since 2009, Generator Studios has been engaged in more than $400 million of construction on work across the country, moving easily between projects as diverse as a grocery store in a “food desert” to major renovations for national sports teams. Proebstle noted that “there can be no formula—each project is as different as each of our clients.” Generator Studio’s team dives into each client’s business model, assists in their strategies for growth, ensures the design aligns with corporate objectives, helps them stay on top of trends, reviews branding and marketing strategies and tackles other issues that keep business owners and managers up at night. “ The end isn’t ultimately about architecture. Rather, it’s about developments that are inherently economically and environmentally sustainable. This is the business we practice.”

HARTLINE CONSTRUCTION, LLC Jennifer Hart Kansas City, MO 9 employees HartlineKC.com

Hartline Construction owner Jennifer Hart is high on quality work, delivered efficiently. That’s why the staff at Hartline consists of apprenticeeducated union workers who Jennifer knows will properly complete each project, whether they are performing carpentry, painting, selective concrete or demolition services. Hart insists that administrative and labor staff collaborate as a team so that services are turnkey and seamless for the client. Hart has a degree in architecture, but her expectations stem from the on-the-

job experience she gained during the more than 30 years she spent in design and construction prior to opening Hartline Construction in 2011. She insists upon developing strong client relationships, delivering quality work and performing projects efficiently. Hartline strives for a no punch list attitude with every project, and the company’s track record of returning clients is a testament to its success. The company has completed work for such notable clients as Argosy Casino; Isle of Capri; Kellogg, Brown & Root; Kansas City, Missouri; UMKC; the State of Missouri and the Kansas City Area Transportation Authority. “ Hartline strives for team collaboration. We are only as strong as our employees. All employees are asked to collaborate and focus on presenting a ‘work with’ attitude instead of ‘work for’ attitude.”

SPECIAL THANKS TO THE 2017 25 UNDER 25® ADVISORY BOARD HITCH FIT Jeanie Brewster :: JeanieB, Inc.

Micah and Diana LaCerte

Joyce Christanio :: Sprint

Kansas City, MO

Adrienne Haynes :: SEED Law, LLC

2 employees plus contractors HitchFit.com

Daniel Linhart :: Crema Denise Mills :: LeaderFuel Kathy Peterson :: Heartland Seating, Inc. Joe Valenciano :: BMO Harris/ Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Paul Weber :: Entrepreneur Advertising Group Michelle Word :: Burns & McDonnell

Think Bigger. Take Flight.

Making Kansas City a more fit and healthy place, one person at a time. That’s the mission of fitness power couple Micah and Diana LaCerte, co-owners of Hitch Fit Gym and Hitch Fit Online Personal Training. These entrepreneurs and World Champion fitness athletes have helped clients locally and globally shed more than 300,000 pounds of fat. Hitch Fit is a lifestyle transformation company that the LaCerte’s launched online in 2009 with a shoestring budget and a big dream. They built the online personal

training business organically through social media, and they now have clients in 71 countries. Building on the success of the online model, the LaCerte’s opened Hitch Fit Gym at 31st and Gillham in late 2009, and they followed up with a second location, in Overland Park, in 2014. As one of the first transformationfocused gyms in the United States, Hitch Fit helps clients achieve their goals by teaching healthy, sustainable eating and exercise habits. Hitch Fit Gym’s team of personal trainers, best known as “Transformers,” has grown to more than 20 individuals. The LaCertes are also passionate about transforming communities. They sponsor a school in Haiti, and both serve on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of Greater Kansas City SportsLab.

“ The most important monitor of success … is how successful our clients are, and how many lives we are changing.” SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

INTERNATIONAL EXPRESS TRUCKING INC. Karen Duff Kansas City, KS 16 employees IXTKC.com

After establishing an in-house US Customs Clearing Department for a Fortune 500 firm where she was a buyer and international logistics professional, Karen Duff cashed in her retirement savings to start her own drayage business, International Express Trucking. Located in the Fairfax District in Kansas City, Kan., IXT provides intermodal drayage services throughout the Midwest. The company’s specialty is transporting goods over a short distance that is part of a longer transport. One way to think of it is they are one leg in a baton race.

Thank you to our customers and colleagues who make IXT great every day, every delivery!

Since its launch in 1993 as a certified woman-owned trucking company that provides international drayage services, International Express Trucking (IXT) has experienced double-digit growth year over year. Duff puts customer satisfaction at the top of the list when discussing the company’s key to that success. Not one to simply talk about doing something, Duff ’s goal has been to demonstrate the company’s commitment to and care for customers. IXT does that through attention to detail and by providing quality, dependable service tailored for each client. The effort has produced a 99.5 percent customer retention rate. “Above all, we remember that our own growth depends on that of our customers ... if we can help you grow through better services and rates, we will also grow. We aren’t satisfied until our customers are satisfied.”

J. RIEGER & CO. Andy Rieger, Ryan Maybee Kansas City, MO 6 employees JRiegerCo.com

When Prohibition forced the closure of J. Rieger and Co., a distillery that Jacob Rieger founded in 1887, destiny was ultimately on the family’s side. Nearly a century later in 2014, Jacob’s great-greatgreat-grandson Andy teamed up with Ryan Maybee to relaunch the iconic brand. Rieger and Maybee created a whiskey blend that included sherry and dubbed it “Kansas City Whiskey.” In July 2015, the blend was named one of the four finalists reviewed for Best New International Spirit or Cocktail Ingredient. J. Rieger & Co. also offers a vodka that won a gold medal in the Washington Cup Spirits Competition. J. Rieger & Co. strives for creativity, innovation and pride in quality. They are

experience recognition

A National CPA & Advisory Firm

IXTKC.com Kansas Woman Owned Business of the Year Proud Recipient 2015 & 2016

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

Reaching new heights requires passion, discipline and a commitment to excellence. BKD holds these values in high regard, and we’re proud to recognize others who do the same. That’s why we’re pleased to congratulate client J. Rieger & Co. and all of this year’s 25 Under 25® honorees.

816.221.6300 // bkd.com

tenets that helped the newly resurrected company attract top talent such as Tom Nichol, the world’s top gin distiller and former head of Tanqueray, to help in launch the distillery’s gin program. The co-founders focus is to establish J. Rieger & Co. as a national powerhouse distillery. In 2016, the company expanded into 10 other states. Early on, they decided to create a distribution-based company with sales outside its facility, a business model outside the norm of most modern-day startup distilleries. “ Instead of trying to compete against bars and the traditional craft distillery model, we set out to compete against the big brands. We knew our products could compete

KANSAS CITY BIER COMPANY LLC Steve Holle Kansas City, MO 21 employees KCBier.com

Steve Holle and KC Bier Co. don’t want to rule the world—just Kansas City. Spying an opportunity for a brewery that produced fresh, local Germanstyle beer that could be widely distributed throughout his hometown of Kansas City, Holle wound down his 33-year career in real estate investment and moved back from Dallas to found KC Bier Co. His goal was to produce authentic Germanstyle beer that would fill a middle ground

between light mainstream lagers and highimpact craft beers. Although it houses a taproom and beer hall that allows consumers, retailers and distributors to have a German beer experience, KC Bier Co. doesn’t operate as a brewpub model. Instead, the brewery is designed for largescale production with a focus on wholesale operations and extensive local distribution. KC Bier’s beers are available on tap at more than 425 area locations, and demand has consistently exceeded Holle’s business plan forecasts. In October 2016, the brewery began selling bottled beer in most area liquor and grocery stores, which doubled their monthly sales volume. Today, KC Bier Co. is Kansas City’s largest locally owned brewery.

“ KC Bier Co. is steadfast in its mission to brew slow, high-quality beer with

with the major players on a quality

the highest quality ingredients, using traditional brewing processes … The

and cost perspective.”

cumulative effect of these small commitments to quality are the foundations that sets KC Bier Co. apart.”

Success Is Always Cause For Celebration. Congratulations to the 25 Under 25® class of 2017, including our friends at Generator Studio, J. Rieger & Co., KC Bier Co., Lever 1, STRATA Architecture and Treadwell.

www.mobank.com

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

LEVER1 Greg Gragg, Mike Schuler, Erica Brune, Darryl Mattox Kansas City, MO 16 employees Lever1.com

At first glance, Lever1 is a Professional Employer Organization (PEO) that provides administrative and management solutions for business owners. A closer look reveals that it is a strategic partner that helps business owners power their organization from survival to success. Lever1’s origins stemmed from an advertising agency that had been in business for more than 20 years, so it already had established expertise. Still, the

young firm experienced challenges educating potential clients on how working with a PEO can add value to a business. Lever1 president Erica Brune said that focusing on relationships, offering educational workshops and networking have been key to building a strong customer base. Providing quality services has helped retain those customers. The company decided early on to be specialists rather than generalists, which means focusing on three core categories: HR, payroll and employee benefits. To be best in class in each, they hired staff specialized in areas such as tax law and HR compliance. Lever1’s own culture is a testament to how companies can encourage a focused business approach and mix in fun too. The staff is known to have impromptu danceoffs, lip-sync battles, tailgate parties and picnics on the patio.

“ Lever1’s biggest measurement of achievement is the growth and success of our clients. Our brand essence is ‘Everything Your Business Isn’t.’ We deliver a convenient, reliable service that allows clients to focus on what is important to them.”

Let’s Shorten Your To-Do List

MINDLIFT Erlinda Tjhai-Aydulun, Kaan Aydulun Overland Park, KS 8 employees TheMindLift.com

MindLift is a homegrown technology and management consulting company with a Fortune 500 client list that includes The CocaCola Company, Dell and QTS. Husband and wife team Kaan Aydulun and Erlinda Tjhai-Aydulun combined nearly 30 years of experience and diverse skill sets to establish the company in 2013. MindLift helps to supercharge C-suite executive teams by using technology to help them achieve their business goals. MindLift also helps corporations use their data to gain insights into their operations and improve efficiency. Not content to simply enjoy their early success, MindLift plans to continue to serve

Workers’ Compensation. Acquisition. Down Payment. Claims Reporting. Claims Management. Post Accident Drug Testing. Audits. Employee Benefits. Acquisition Administration. Health. Life. Dental. Disability. Human Resources. 401K. Section 125 Plan. Payroll. Report Hours. Write Checks. Vacations. Sick Pay. Eligibility Dates. Job CostCertified Payroll. Garnishments. Taxes. Payroll. FICA. FUTA. SUTA. 940. 941. W-2. Penalties. Safety. Risk Management. Customized Employee Handbooks. Customized Safety Manuals. Drug and Alcohol Policies. OSHA 300 Log. Safety Meetings. Enforce Safe Accident Reporting. Supervision. Hiring. Firing. W-4. I-9. Background Checks. Pay Rate Changes. Workers’ Compensation. Acquaisition. Down Payment. Claims Reporting. Claims Management. Post Accident Drug Testing. Audits. Employee Benefits. Acquisition. Administration. Health. Life. Dental. Disability. 401K. Section 125 Plan. Payroll. Report Hours. Write Checks. Vacations. Sick Pay. Eligibility Dates. Job Cost Certified Payroll. Garnishments. Taxes. FICA. FUTA. SUTA. 940. 941. W-2. Penalties. Safety. Risk Management. Customized Employee Handbooks. Customized Safety Manuals. Drug and Alcohol Policies. OSHA 300 Log. Safety Meetings. Enforce Safety. Accident Reporting. Human Resources.

HUMAN RESOURCES PAYROLL

EMPLOYEE BENEFITS

816-994-1300 | WWW.LEVER1.COM 14

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

their national clients and grow nationally. At the same time, a major goal of the founders is to bring the best practices of their innovative global clients to Kansas City. They intend to build world-class capabilities in operations intelligence, develop the company’s own best practices and grow an expert team focused on excellence in Kansas City. As part of that growth strategy, the founders made a mindful decision to hire locally and to move their originally virtual team to Kansas City. They plan to create more jobs, hire locally and move outside talents into the Kansas City area. “ We learned that building relationships and partnering with other businesses are equally as important as building our own strengths and skillsets. With partners, we can provide better service and achieve better results for our clients. And our clients’ success translates to our triumph.”

PLASTERKRAFT Brad Bruce Kansas City, KS 12 employees PlasterKraft.com

“History in the making.” That’s the mantra of artisan construction firm Plasterkraft. The company is a coalition of craftsmen dedicated to preserving the Kansas City region’s rich legacy of ornamental architecture. Working primarily in structures built between 1850 and 1940, their team of artisan painters, plasterers and carpenters recreate damaged and missing building interiors and exteriors. The company got its start when Dave Boux, a fourthgeneration plasterer, learned ornamental plastering from the British craftsmen hired to work on Union Station in the 1990s. Meanwhile, Boux’s cousin Brad

Bruce was picking up painting jobs, primarily at Indian Hills Country Club. The two teamed up and earned work from the Ambassador Hotel, the Midland Theater and the Vaile Victorian Mansion. The duo formally combined their talents in 2013 and launched Plasterkraft, working exclusively in commercial construction. Among their notable projects are the Hotel Phillips, Pickwick Plaza, the KCPL Building and the Missouri Statehouse. The company is preserving its own future through an internship program with the Kansas City Art Institute that teaches a new generation of artists how to make money while doing what they love. “ Plasterkraft is about the marriage of Old World and New, old craft with new technologies, old buildings with new life … we restore the buildings our great grandfathers built so they may be preserved for the enjoyment of our great grandchildren.”

We are proud to support the 25 Under 25 Awards. #25UNDER25AWARDS Joe Valenciano Vice President Relationship Manager 913-593-8012

Think Bigger. Take Flight.

joe.valenciano@bmo.com Banking deposit and loan products and services are subject to bank and credit approval. BMO Harris Bank N.A. Member FDIC. SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

SAFEDEFEND Jeff Green Gardner, KS 5 employees SafeDefend.com

Immediately following the Sandy Hook Elementary tragedy in 2012, elementary school principal Jeff Green, who is also a father of three, created SafeDefend, the nation’s only comprehensive active shooter and intruder response system. The company’s unique approach and proprietary design is the most complete protection available to effectively respond to the worst-case scenario in any school or work environment. SafeDefend is designed to immediately notify law enforcement and everyone in a building in crisis. It also provides training and re-

sponse options to protect all students, staff and employees until help arrives. Although the system did not begin as an actual business, SafeDefend quickly became recognized by school and law enforcement personnel as the right system and approach for protecting students and staff. It has grown from a grassroots company of just the founder to a company with five full-time employees and gross sales that top $1 million. The company now offers response protection for businesses as well. With systems in place in schools, financial institutions, manufacturing facilities, and non-profits, SafeDefend continues to expand its footprint and define the best practices for safety with input from law enforcement, threat assessment experts and emergency responders. “ Our mission is a sobering one: to protect our most valuable resource, those who come to our place of school or work counting on us to keep them safe.”

The 25 Under 25 Class of 2017

Mayer Hoffman McCann P.C.

An Independent CPA Firm

SAGE COMMUNICATIONS Leigh Ann Cleaver and Kelly Schwalbe Kansas City, MO 8 employees SageBrandKC.com

Whether it’s a herbicide for onions, new technology on a combine, a playground built by community volunteers, an MRI for horses, bird houses, tread on track tires, or swine vaccines, Sage learns its clients’ products and services as if they were their own. A full-service marketing communications agency led by owners Leigh Ann Cleaver and Kelly Schwalbe, many of Sage’s clients operate in the agriculture and animal health fields. The two owners met in the mid1990s while working together at a large advertising agency in downtown Kansas City. In 2003, with their entrepreneurial spirit calling, they combined their skills to create an advertising and public relations firm where they could be involved at every stage, with every customer. Situated in the Crossroads Arts District, the agency’s location is ideal for immersing themselves in community volunteer efforts too. Their business model, based on providing experienced counsel, allows Sage to be flexible, innovative and cost effective. Their team of professionals in branding, advertising, public relations, strategic planning, event planning, and other areas has helped them attract large national brands such as John Deere, Kansas City Parks and Recreation and Ceva Animal Health. “ We understand the importance of not just what you say to your audi-

ence, but how to say it and where to distribute the message.”

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

SARIN ENERGY SOLUTIONS Inayat Noormohmad Overland Park, KS 8 employees SarinEnergy.com

What began as a small business venture in a home garage has become one of the Midwest’s most trusted LED lighting suppliers. Inayat Noormohmad founded SARIN Energy after being inspired to help businesses increase their bottom line through energy-saving lighting solutions. The company manufactures, distributes and installs its products for more than 300 locations throughout the Kansas City area as well as in Arizona, Kansas, Missouri, Texas, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio and Florida. Among the products offered are LED pole lights, street lights, wall packs, tube lights, troffer series and dozens of other interior and exterior LED lighting fixtures. A lighting expert will perform a free energy audit that reveals where energy is being expended and to suggest creative, money-saving LED and control system options. Looking to overcome any cost objections to their products, SARIN also developed a financing model that allows its customers to experience zero out-of-pocket expenses in many instances. The SARIN team continuously works to innovate and improve design and installation challenges for the commercial and retail sectors in order to provide the best quality and best solutions.

SPHERE3 Kourtney Govro Kansas City, KS 9 employees Sphere3Consulting.com

Sphere3 is passionate about patient experience. Company founder Kourtney Govro was motivated to start the company after a hospital experience with a family member. Specifically, Sphere3 has developed Aperum®, a first-of-its-kind patient experience management platform that integrates both the patient’s perception at the point of care and their behaviors in a mobilized analytics platform.

Aperum®, which means “to reveal,” translates patient-generated data from nurse call light, patient beds, cardiac monitoring, and sensor/ location technologies into information about patient behaviors, satisfaction levels and safety drivers. A subscription-based software with coaching and analytics services, Aperum® is used by more than 30 hospitals across the United States as part of their Patient Experience Management Strategy. A thirdparty research study and feedback from hospitals using Aperum® note improvements in patient experience, reduction in safety issues, and overall caregiver job satisfaction improvement. Sphere3 is also a validated partner of many of the top manufacturers for technologies and patient communication.

“ My dream with Sphere3 was to reveal something that is currently not seen— to remove the veil from the data being generated by the patient and provide it in useable format to the caregivers taking care of the patient. … We are not creating data, we are capturing it and bringing understanding to it.”

I am incredibly proud of my team for achieving such a great honor. Thank you for all of your hard work and dedication to serving patients, their families, and caregivers well! You make Sphere3 a great place— You are the reason our clients LOVE Sphere3! Kourtney Govro

“ We strive to offer the best energy-saving solutions for our clients and often find ourselves developing new and creative ways to meet their needs.”

sphere3consulting.com SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

STRATA ARCHITECTURE INC. Susan Richards Johnson, Angie Gaebler, Trudy Faulkner Kansas City, MO 5 employees Strata-arch.com

Susan Richards Johnson, the founder of STRATA Architecture, became interested in architecture through her mother, who pursued an architectural degree and shared a passion for the profession with her. Starting as a sole proprietor working out of her home in 1987, Susan led the business through several iterations, including a partnership. In 2015, the firm was rebranded and renamed STRATA Architecture Inc. The company has extensive experience in historic restoration, renovation, adaptive reuse, new construction and master planning for commercial and residential projects. The staff is especially sensitive to designing

all of their work with the notion of sustainability, especially contextual suitability, which has led to positive relationships with local, state and federal historic preservation agencies on numerous projects. “Through the restoration and rehabilitation of existing buildings, the firm breathes new life into historic properties that otherwise would remain unused, abandoned or demolished,” said Richards Johnson. STRATA Architecture Inc. has worked throughout the Midwest and has been selected twice for a National Park Service five-year contract for restoration projects in the 13-state Midwest region. The company is currently the Preservation Architect of Record for the National World War I Museum and Memorial in Kansas City, Mo. “ We are more than builders, preservers and restorers of structures. We are Architects, Dreamers, Authors. Whether we’re working on new spaces or old, we have a responsibility to create, maintain and evolve the story of each building we touch.”

SUPERIOR DISPOSAL SERVICE INC. Glen Smith Gardner, KS 24 employees SuperiorDisposalService.com

Starting with just one customer and one truck 11 years ago, Superior Disposal Service founder Glen Smith now oversees a team of two dozen employees and a fleet of 23 trucks that serves more than 12,000 customers in Lenexa, Overland Park, Shawnee, Merriam and Leawood, Kan. The company’s business model is to contract with both homeowners’ associations and individual homeowners for services such as residential trash, recycling and yard waste pick up. It also offers roll off boxes for larger projects. Smith places a heavy emphasis on teamwork and camaraderie. “When we work together for the betterment of Superior, we see company growth and achievement. For example, when our chief mechanic researches the best and most affordable parts company, finances can be diverted back to the fleet or payroll,” he said. That family-like culture extends to customers as well. The company offers houseline pickups for elderly and disabled customers at no cost. Additionally, seniors enjoy a discounted rate because the company understands the reality of living on a fixed income. And customers who have experienced fire, natural disaster or other hardships have been the beneficiaries of special help from Superior as well. “ We beat our competition by offering Superior service to all our customers, whether they are an individual or a home owners’ association.”

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

TOWNER COMMUNICATIONS LLC

TREADWELL

Julie and Keith Towner

Will Buchanan

Mission, KS

Overland Park, KS

10 employees

23 employees

TownerKC.com

WeTreadWell.com

Acquisition and a willingness to embrace new market opportunities have been the keys to growth for thirdgeneration, family-owned Towner Communications. The company got its start in midMissouri in 1965 as a television repair company. Ten years later, the company entered the businessto-business telecommunication industry and built a name for itself as the leader in all things related to business communication. A couple of timely acquisitions allowed Towner to enter the Kansas City market in 2012. Soon after, Julie and Keith Towner, the current owners, purchased the business from the rest of the family. Since then, the company, which is WBE certified, has tripled sales and doubled its staff, known as “Townies.” Julie and Keith are focused on offering a wide range of hardware and software communication solutions for customers of all sizes and types, including restaurants, law firms, clinics, hospitals, educational institutions, local governments and manufacturers. “If it’s ‘slick’ and keeps you connected to your clients and your team and, above all, makes your company more productive and efficient, we offer it,” said Julie. As the largest Mitel exclusive partner in Kansas, Towner Communications’ unified communication platforms include voicemail, email, remote teleworking, mobile office communication, emergency mass notification, call center applications and many other services.

In less than five years, Treadwell has become a regional leader in polished concrete and resin-coated flooring. “Or, as we like to call them, no-nonsense floors that last,” founder Will Buchanan said. The biggest contractors in Kansas City have tasked Buchanan and his team with installing flooring in a range of high-profile projects. Past clients have included Boulevard Brewing Co., Price Chopper, Prairiefire, Kansas State University, the Olathe School District, Topgolf and many more.

“ It is no longer good enough to ‘sell phones.’ We now offer a partnership in a business’s growth.”

Revenue keeps growing from year to year, and so does the company’s reputation. In 2015, Treadwell was named Subcontractor of the Year by the Kansas City chapter of the American Subcontractors Association. Last year, Buchanan was included on the “20 Under 40” list from by Engineering News-Record Mountain States, a trade publication. Treadwell’s floors look terrific, stand up to hard use and don’t require a ton of maintenance. But that’s only part of what’s allowed Treadwell to win over so many fans. “What really makes us stand out isn’t just what we do, but how we do it,” Buchanan said. “We keep our promises, never overcomplicate things, offer top-notch work and are just plain easy to do business with.”

“ Our name is about standing upright. Walking the walk. Being accountable. It’s also about empowering clients to move forward with confidence, secure in the knowledge that they’ve chosen the right product, and the right people, for the job.”

umb.com | 816.860.7000

25 Businesses You Can Bank On Congratulations to the entire 25 Under 25® Class of 2017 and to our customers Sphere 3 Worldwide Innovations and Technologies

RESINOUS FLOORING + POLISHED CONCRETE

Big Thank You to our partners, general contractors, architects and vendors—Because of the trust you put in us to work on your projects, Treadwell is a 25 Under 25® Company.

UMB is proud to recognize this year’s honorees who were selected for their professionalism, innovation and community support. From your friends at UMB.

Member FDIC SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

WORLDWIDE INNOVATIONS & TECHNOLOGIES, INC. Catherine and John Cadwalader Lenexa, KS 21 employees www.radpad.com

When Catherine and John Cadwalader launched Worldwide Innovations & Technologies in 1992, they were looking for a way to develop a newly patented concept of radiation protection into a viable, saleable product. Now, nearly 25 years later, the company is a leader in manufacturing and selling disposable radiation protection products designed to protect medical personnel from exposure to scatter radiation. WIT’s flagship product RADPAD Protective Shielding launched in 1999 with an initial focus on the interventional radiology and

interventional cardiology specialties. Over the years, the company has developed and patented several other procedurespecific products and introduced them to the various medical specialties in which radiation exposure to personnel is a health hazard. Although the company’s current success is proven, RADPAD’s disposable form of radiation protection was a totally new concept in the medical field when it was introduced. The Cadwalader’s faced an uphill challenge to educate the medical community about the product and convince them that it worked. More than 25 independent clinical studies have scientifically proven that RADPAD products reduce radiation exposure to medical personnel. During the past six years, annual sales have more than doubled and staff has grown to 21 employees.

“ Our company produces products that help save lives. Our products cut radiation exposure up to 95 percent and reduce the potential for health problems for

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medical personnel.”

We think our clients are

Worldwide Innovations & Technologies Congratulations John and Cathy Cadwalader and Worldwide Innovations & Technologies, along with the other fine 2017 25 Under 25® Award Honorees. Connect with one of our banking experts to learn more about how CrossFirst Bank is dedicated to serving people in extraordinary ways.

4707 W. 135th Street I Leawood I 913.327.1212 I crossfirstbank.com MEMBER FDIC

20 THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

2016

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T S John McDonald, Founder of Boulevard Brewing Co.

AlphaGraphics Kansas City Bier Station C&R Manufacturing Core Catalysts LLC Crema Dobies Healthcare Group Eagle Animal Hospital Elite Physical Therapy & Integrative Health

Exhibit Associates Inc. Johnson County Siding & Window Co. Inc. Jowler Creek Vineyard & Winery Kazoo Media Landworks Studio Leopold Gallery & Art Consulting MEDiAHEAD Muehlebach Funeral Care

New You Health Studio Platinum Realty LLC Prairie Design Build Prairie Elder Care Rosin Preservation Sage Restoration Staffing Kansas City Inc. Weave Gotcha Covered WomenSpirit

WELCOME, 25 UNDER 25® CLASS OF 2017

Thinking Bigger Business Media Inc. is proud to welcome the 25 Under 25 ® Class of 2017 to the outstanding group of companies that have received the annual 25 Under 25 ® Award.

2015

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T S Sherry Turner, Founder of OneKC for Women

ABPathfinder Inc. City Gym DRAW Architecture + Urban Design eJ4 Evolytics JNA Advertising The Land Source & Evergreen Real Estate Services Lifted Logic

Likarda LLC Neighborhood Painting Inc. Neuvant House of Lawrence nexus IT group Optimum Energy Solutions REACTOR Design Studio Shockey Consulting Services Spotlight Square One Interiors LLC SRKO Contracting

Structura Inc. Sunlite Science & Technology Inc. Team Drive-Away Inc. Totta Hardwood Flooring LLC Unique Label Inc. Useagility Whatever It Takes Electrical Contractors LLC

“A mile of highway will take you a mile. A mile of runway will take you anywhere.” -Unknown

2014

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T S Bert Berkley, Chairman of the Board, Tension Corporation, William H. Dunn Sr., Chairman Emeritus, JE Dunn Construction, Donald J. Hall, Chairman of the Board, Hallmark Cards

Alight Analytics Engage Mobile Solutions Family Bicycles LLC Gunilla of Sweden Organic Skin Care Heartland Seating Inc. Hilary’s Eat Well INTERNATIONAL ARCHITECTS ATELIER INC. k12itc Kansas City Testing and Engineering LLC

Krueger & James Insurance Agency Lauren’s Hope Medical ID Bracelets Level Five LMG Construction Longbranch Communications O’Neill Marketing & Event Management Quality Air Solutions RareWire RESULTS Technology

Sir Speedy Printing and Marketing Services The Tasteful Olive Tricension Turf etc., Authorized SYNLawn Supplier Twentyseven Global VALBRIDGE PROPERTY ADVI- SORS/Shaner Appraisals Inc. Weather Metrics Inc.

SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

25 UNDER 25 :: 2017

2013

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Patricia Brown-Dixon, Region VII Administrator, U.S. Small Business Administration

A/R Allegiance Group LLC Alpha Energy and Electric Inc. Belton Animal Clinic & Exotic Care Center Bullseye International Inc. Cates Auction & Realty Co. Inc. Data Locker Inc. Earthway Enterprises EPIC Entertainment Inc.

2011

3 Women and an Oven Arsalon Technologies Braces by Dr. Hansen EventPros Express Scale Parts & Manufacturing FRD Communications Galvmet Genesis Structures

Russell-Hampton Co. Sharma-Crawford Attorneys at Law LLC Snake ‘n’ Rooter The Lano Company TK Architects International Inc. TWI LLC Urban Tree Specialists Worldwide Wine and Spirits Inc.

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Danny O’Neill, Founder and Bean Baron, the Roasterie

Affinity Group Management Affordable Elegance Catering Associated Equipment Sales Bark to Basics Boyer & Corporon Wealth Management Freedom Bank Great Day Moving GreenAcres Market Harper’s Fabric & Quilt

2009

hr-haven inc. Lewis Block & Supply Company LTD Signs & Graphics LLC Mano’s Corporate Gifts Mersoft Corporation Midland Metal Office Products Alliance Paige Technologies LLC ReTouch Design–Build– Renovate

Heartland Fabrication & Machine HushMat ikros.com Kansas City Center for Anxiety Treatment Lakewood Animal Health Center Light Bulbs Etc. MidWest Vascular Access

Nationwide Transportation and Logistics Services New Horizons Enterprises Northland Physical Therapy Oncimmune USA The Corridor Group The RED Force Fire & Security The Roasterie Café The Wellington Group Veracity Solutions

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Kurt Mueller, CEO of the former Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership Giltner & Sons Media Services & ShredTime Outlaw Cigar Company P/Strada Paceline Products Pass Dental Center Pat Riha Productions Poole Fire Protection Rainy Day Books

THINKING BIGGER BUSINESS :: 25 Under 25® :: 2017

River City Searcy Financial Services Skyline Displays Heartland TextCaster The Henning Law Firm Tickets For Less TNT Forage Unchained Creative

2012

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Ewing Kauffman, Founder of Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and serial entrepreneur

Affinis Corp. American Digital Security American Midwest Distributors Big Momma’s Bakery-Café Blue Skyz Enterprises Inc. candid marketing & communications Consolidated Printing Supplies Great Getaways Travel

2010

Moblico Solutions Mr. Tires Orbis Biosciences Rockwell Labs Ltd. SM Products/Spyder SSi Furnishings Summit Construction Company The UPS Store, Oak Park Commons Van Osdol & Magruder P.C.

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Rick Krska, President and Chief Executive Servant of InkCycle

40North Aurora Plastic and Hand Surgery Avatar Engineering Botwin Family Partners Bowman Bowman Novick Brockton Creative Group DVA Enterprises Fun Services of KC Homoly Construction

2008

Horizon Orthotic & Prosthetic Experience HSMC InnovaPrep KDC Construction KR Legal Management MAG Trucks & MAG Capital Marathon Digital Services and MySmartPlans Mill Creek Animal Hospital

Insight Eyecare Specialties IntelliThink LeaderFuelNow Lon Lane’s Inspired Occasions Max Electric Mobile Surgical Lasers Office Products Recycling Associates Open Methods SCD Probiotics

Scovell Wolfe & Associates Technology Group Solutions The Koehler Bortnick Team of Reece & Nichols Real Estate The Planned Approach Travois Validity Screening Solutions WillCo Technologies

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T V. Cheryl Womack, Chairperson, Leading Women Entrepreneurs of the WorldTM; CEO, VCW Holding Company; CEO, The Star Group

Acceleration AesthetiCare Ard Glass Service CareStaf Convenience Xpress The DVS Group DXD Sports EAT Advertising and Design Express Business Supply

Eye Care Optical Germinder & Associates I Love a Mystery Legacy School of the Arts Mission Bowl Nash Resources Group Olathe Animal Hospital Power On Technologies QTI

ROSnet Rush Tracking Systems Sound Products Stuff Tevis Architects Top Choice Contracting Visionpace

2007

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Robert Bernstein, Co-founder, President and CEO, Bernstein-Rein Advertising

All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding Aquarius Associated Audiologists Brookside Barkery & Bath Coleman Industrial Construction Design Ranch el dorado Entrepreneur Advertising Group Finkle|Williams Architecture

2005

Restaurant Link ReUse Concrete Sealing Specialists SoftVu sys-tek Top Innovations Uncommon Grounds Worldwide Clinical Research

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Honorable Carol Marinovich, Former Mayor/CEO Unified Government of Wyandotte County/Kansas City, Kansas

Adams-Gabbert & Associates Allstate Specialty Construction Bartunek Technology Group BuiltToLastHome.com Caption Services of Kansas CommWorld of Kansas City Design Supply ESC Index Greenleaf Construction Co.

2003

Fish Development FPC Gage Machine Tool Gardner Animal Hospital Hangers Cleaners Industrial Supply Kansas City Master Companies Kansas City T-Bones Baseball Club Magic Touch Cleaning

HOTMETAL Creative Jantsch Slaggie Architects L.R. Cloverleaf Legendary Rhythm & Blues Cruise Nature’s Window NCES Pegasus Capital Management Prairiebrooke Arts

ProPrint Reynolds Consulting Sturges Word T2–Take Two The Best of Kansas City Union Packaging Versent–The Purple Guys Wrenn Insurance

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Barnett Helzberg, Jr., Former Chairman of the Board, Helzberg Diamonds; Founder, Helzberg Entrepreneurial Mentoring Program (HEMP)

Bridal Wreath Business By Promotion C&M Restoration CHRW Advertising Curt’s Famous Meats ECCO Select FIVE STAR Speakers & Trainers Genghis Kahn Hamele Healthcare Resources

Howell Construction Co. iKnowledge Leaderpoint Leatherwood’s Home for Children Nexus Relocation Group Original Juan Specialty Foods R&D Associates Rees Masilionis Turley Architecture

Rudroff Heating & Air Conditioning Russ Cline & Associates S&M NuTec–Greenies Dog Treats Steed Company Remodeling Contractors TeamOffice The Renova Group Threatt Nutrition Stores Transportation Logistics Systems

2006

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Henry Bloch, Co-founder and Honorary Chair of H&R Block

ABMI–Merger and Acquisitions ACS Data Search AnswerPro Limited Aptora Baber’s Catering Birdies Bryan & Klein Creative Courseware The Culinary Center of Kansas City

2004

Accommodations by Apple Almar Printing The Auto Clinic Corbin Bronze The Cup and Saucer on Delaware Street Custom Engineering Financial Security Advisors Harmon Construction Indigo Wild

Mid-America Merchandising Missouri Office Systems & Supplier OCCU-TEC Prier Products Saepio Technologies Shatto Farms–Shatto Milk Co. Shear Madness

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Dr. Patricia Greene, Dean of the Undergraduate School at Babson College; former Ewing Marion Kauffman/Missouri, Chair in Entrepreneurial Leadership at UMKC

Ben Weddle & Associates Canterbury Preparatory School City Market Coffee Company Dessonville Boler Wood Murray & Stalp Fulfillment Plus Gini L. Toyne & Associates Gragg Advertising J.M. Neil & Associates KC Creations

2002

Designers Delivery Services Evolv Solutions Felco Printing & Mailing GPW & Associates Home Rental Services Hometown Hearing & Audiology Kenton Brothers Systems for Security LionShare Marketing Metzler Bros. Insurance

Mid-America Sign Contractors Missouri Information Solutions Netchemia Old-Country Bakery Partners in Behavioral Milestones Phoenix Renovation and Restoration Plaza Personnel Scandinavian Country

Schloegel Design Remodel Serve & Clean Sienna Bistro Six Degrees Solutions The Smile Salon Two West Weather or Not YTC Services

E N T R E P R E N E U R I A L L E G A C Y AWA R D R E C I P I E N T Richard Bendis, Former CEO and President, Kansas Technology Enterprise Center

J. Schmid & Associates Junk Architects Meers Marketing Communications Minuteman Press Morningstar Communications Company Network Integration Services Noonshine Window Cleaning Service

PC Wizards Punch Software Roger the Plumber Santa Fe Auto Sound Serenity the Rejuvenating Day Spa SPIDERtel Tatjana Alvegaard Photography Wilson Johnson Embers Your Wellness Connection

SMART COMPANIES THINKING BIGGER®

A DAVID FOR

GOLIATHS PROUD TO BE ONE OF KANSAS CITY’S 25 UNDER 25

ER Marketing has been the small agency that’s delivered big for clients for more than 15 years—including some of the biggest names in the industries we serve. Committed to providing impactful results that move brands forward while deliberately maintaining a small team of high-impact professionals, we’re honored to be recognized as one of Kansas City’s 25 Under 25®. Thank you to the clients, vendors, and especially our staff who have made this possible.

Thinking Smaller to Deliver Bigger www.ermarketing.net