Asian Business organization accepting award nominations

Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses (AAAB) is seeking nominations for its inaugural Asian-Owned Business Award. Nominations will be accepted through midnight Nov. 22.

According to a news release, the award is expected to spotlight the entrepreneurial excellence of Asian business owners in Arkansas. Founded in 2017, the Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses is a 501(c)(6) nonprofit with a mission to connect Asia and Arkansas in business.

“The Asian-Owned Business Award is the next step in our mission as we seek to expand the AAAB’s impact in the Asia-Arkansas community,” said Yang Luo-Branch, president of Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses. “Asian-owned businesses in various industries meaningfully contribute to our state’s economic growth, employment, and socio-economic diversity, although the Asian population is 1.7% of Arkansas total. We are excited to be the first to launch this much-needed award and platform recognizing the success and drive of Asian business owners in our state.”

The award will be presented to a business that has demonstrated excellence across the following areas: business innovation and growth, customer satisfaction, employee relations, honoring Asian heritage/roots in the business and community impact.

Nominations are open for all Asian-owned businesses in Arkansas, regardless of size and industry and whether they have a physical location. Link here for more information about the award.

A judging committee of Arkansas business owners and professionals will help select five finalists and make recommendations for the winner. Arkansas Association of Asian Businesses Board of Directors will choose the winner. The five finalists will be recognized at the organization’s East Meets West Lunar New Year luncheon on Feb. 6 in Little Rock. The winner and runners-up will be announced at the event.

“This award not only highlights their entrepreneurial excellence but also reinforces the vital role these businesses play in strengthening our state’s economy,” said Esperanza Massana Crane, director of small business and entrepreneurship development at Arkansas Economic Development Commission. “We look forward to celebrating their successes and fostering greater opportunities for growth and collaboration.”