A desire to succeed. The opportunity to be your own boss. Hard work and determination. All are common threads to what is known as an entrepreneur.

On March 12, 2008 nine local entrepreneurs were honored for those qualities they all share. Approximately 250 people attended the event at the Radisson Hotel, which was emceed by Chris Holman, publisher of The Greater Lansing Business Monthly, and Paula D. Cunningham, president of Capitol National Bank.

In the 14 years that the magazine has recognized the achievements of entrepreneurs, over 120 people have now been honored. “Each year we are amazed at the quality of nominations we receive; the judges never have an easy task of determining the finalists and the eventual award recipients,” stated Chris Holman. Proof positive that this is a great area in which to do business.

Sponsored by Andrews Hooper & Pavlik, PLC, Capitol National Bank, Maner Costerisan & Ellis, PC, Plante & Moran, PLLC, Radisson Hotel Lansing, Strategic Products & Services, Symbiosis International, TDS Metrocom and WILX TV-10, the event has become a true representation to what can be accomplished when people are willing to put everything on the line.

In conjunction with the Entrepreneurial Awards, Junior Achievement presented awards to those who have had a hand in helping future entrepreneurs get a flavor for what can be achieved through the JA programs. The Granger Companies received the Outstanding Company award; William Sepic, president, of the Lansing Regional Chamber of Commerce accepted the JA Alumnus award; and Chris Holman received the Outstanding Volunteer award. Presented by JA board chairman, Rob Fowler, president of the Small Business Association of Michigan, these awards recognize those willing to help train tomorrow’s leaders.

Now sit back and take some time to read how these award recipients got their start, what their turning points were, and when they realized they had a success on their hands. We are pleased to present the 2008 Entrepreneurial Award winners.