Tamika Merriman grew up in two households with 11 siblings and both homes weren’t always safe. Consequently, as the eldest, she often found herself being the caretaker for her three brothers and eight sisters.
So maybe it shouldn’t come as a surprise that Merriman, now the chief operating officer for Adoption Option, turned protecting and helping children and families into her life’s work.
Adoption Option is a child-placing agency that provides a variety of adoption and other services. It reached nearly 1,800 people last year alone and is working with 131 children in its foster care system.
“I’ve been doing this work my whole life,” Merriman said. “Sometimes it’s a calling and not just a job. I’ve been caring for kids and helping families for as long as I can remember. For a lot of people who do this work, obviously we don’t make a million dollars; we do it because we care. We care about kids and families.”
The efforts of Merriman, who grew up in Detroit and moved to the suburbs, and her team earned the “Best Overall” winner among small businesses at the recent Best of MichBusiness awards ceremony, held at the Gem Theater in Detroit. The awards are presented annually to celebrate programs and companies that make Michigan a great place to live and work.
“I believe our work is so selfless … we care about children and families and getting families back together when we can, and we try to get kids adopted,” Merriman said. “We don’t do it for the glitz and glamour, but it feels good to get an award like this because we’re being recognized for the hard work, we do every day.”
Other 2025 overall winners included TekWissen Software Pvt Ltd, which has a long history of software development focused on designing, planning and coding across enterprises with the processes, applications and people that need it most, honored as the overall winner among large businesses, and the Bavarian Inn Lodge in Frankenmuth, which features over 15,000 square feet of flexible conference and banquet space designed to host corporate retreats, conventions, weddings and group events of all sizes, which took overall honors among medium-sized businesses.
Best of the Best – Large Business
TekWissen is a global innovation and technology company with a long history of software development focused on designing, planning and coding across your enterprise with the processes, applications and people that need it most.
The company operates in a manner that results in a better world from both a humanitarian and ecological perspective. As it strives to maintain best practices for sustainability, TekWissen’s commitment to corporate social responsibility is global in reach, balancing economic, environmental and social concerns. Its respect for these principles applies within the organization and as it relates to its partners. TekWissen extends its commitment even further by developing solutions that enable its customers to achieve their own sustainability goals.
TekWissen’s business philosophy, according to data posted to the company’s website, is to assure the highest quality product, total client satisfaction, timely delivery of solutions and the best quality/price ratio found in the industry. The firm develops innovative and creative products and services that provide total communication and information solutions. Among a plethora of services are web design and development and tailor-made applications.
At TekWissen, a positive workplace is not treated as a perk, it’s the foundation of sustained success. The company believes that when people feel valued, supported, and inspired, they perform at their best and fuel collective growth. TekWissen lives by its guiding principle: people are its greatest strength. The company fosters an environment where respect, transparency, and collaboration are non-negotiable.
“(TekWissen) is a global leader at the intersection of people, technology, and innovation,” said Theresa Aeh of iSolved, who helped emcee the program. “2025 was a year of growth and inclusion for this company. With new launches on the client front, internally, and bold investments- they have grown and set the stage to lead inclusively.”
Best of the Best – Medium Business
The Bavarian Inn is a long-standing and fourth-generation family-owned resort located in Frankenmuth, often called “Michigan’s Little Bavaria” for its strong German/Bavarian theme. It includes both the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and the Bavarian Inn Lodge, plus additional shops, entertainment, and event facilities. The restaurant is famous for its world-famous family-style chicken dinners as well as German dishes like schnitzel and sauerbraten.
The Bavarian Inn Lodge offers 360 European-themed guest rooms, some with whirlpools or designed as family suites. The lodge also has large banquet/conference facilities. Rooms/venues that can accommodate from smaller gatherings up to several hundred people. The Bavarian Blast Waterpark/ Family Fun Center features indoor water-based amenities, including multiple pools, whirlpools, water slides. Recently, there has been a major expansion with “Bavarian Blast,” which increases indoor waterpark and family entertainment offerings as Michigan’s Biggest Indoor Waterpark and Family Fun Center.
This expansion features over 170,000 square feet of family fun: 16 new waterslides, a lazy river, a wave pool, Michigan’s first swim up bar, and so much more. The Family Fun Center added a 3 story ropes course, climbing walls, laser tag, mini bowling, ice cream & candy shop, and over 180+ arcade/redemption games.
Jim Engel, the chief operating officer for Bavarian Inn Lodge, called winning the Best of MichBusiness award a “humbling experience.”
“It’s humbling when you get an award for hard work,” Engel said. “That’s a true honor. When you’re recognized in metro Detroit for a little town in Frankenmuth, Michigan, way up in the middle of the Thumb, it’s even more humbling. Many have been loyal for 30 and 40 years. Coming down to Detroit and being a part of this event … the networking we had here was just phenomenal. I’m going home with some exciting information for our staff.” Engel said creating memories “is our core.”
“We’re trying to create memories for families when they get away … for couples when they get away,” he said. “We’re helping people have fun. That’s a lot easier work in the big picture, compared to all the health care people who work in such difficult situations. We’re just blessed to have an environment where we’re helping people have fun and escape for just a little while.
Best of the Best – Small Business
Adoption Option Inc. Child Welfare Organization is a Michigan-based nonprofit organization dedicated to strengthening families and improving the lives of the children and families it serves. It provides a full continuum of child and family services, including foster care, adoption, family preservation, and youth mentoring programs. AOICWO strives to guide, support, and empower families to create safe, nurturing environments where children can thrive. Through collaboration with the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and community partners, AOICWO serves hundreds of families annually, combining trauma-informed practices with compassionate, family-centered care.
This year, AOICWO achieved significant progress in enhancing organizational performance and client outcomes. The biggest accomplishment has been surpassing state compliance benchmarks in foster care and adoption while maintaining strong family engagement and further investing in the staff’s well-being. AOICWO believes that the well-being of its employees directly impacts the quality of care provided to families. They promote a positive workplace by fostering a culture of respect, inclusion, and professional growth.
The leadership team prioritizes open communication, recognition of staff achievements, and regular opportunities for feedback and development. They provide ongoing training in trauma-informed care, mental wellness, and leadership development, ensuring staff feel valued and supported. Through team-building activities, flexible support, and a shared mission of helping families thrive, AOICWO continues to cultivate a workplace where employees feel connected, appreciated, and inspired.
For Tamika Merriman, though, it all comes down to family.
“We do adoptions, but we also do foster care, which is trying to reunify families as often as we can,” Merriman said. “We also do family preservation, which means getting in there and trying to help families before Child Protective services even gets involved. If there are red flags identified by the school – maybe kids are coming to school hungry or in dirty clothes – we go in and try to assist families before CPS even gets on their radar.
“Seeing how one incident can really change a family’s life, and I wanted to be involved there,” Merriman said. And just for kids who are in unsafe situations, not just that the family has fallen on hard times but really are unsafe. I wanted to provide a beacon of light for those kids. Growing up and doing this professionally is very rewarding.”
Other Best of MichBusiness winners (by category) included:
Entertainment
Detroit Zoological Society is a renowned leader in wildlife conservation, animal welfare, environmental sustainability and humane education, sits on 125 acres in the heart of metro Detroit, providing more than 2,000 animals of more than 200 species with expansive and naturalistic habitats that allow them to thrive.
Accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) for 40 continuous years, the Detroit Zoo meets the highest standards and is a proven leader in the care and conservation of wildlife and wild places. The Zoo annually offers more than 2,200 educational programs for more than 150,000 people of all ages – and as one of Michigan’s largest visitor attractions, the Detroit Zoo welcomes an average of 1.3 million guests per year, generating $168 million in annual economic impact.
In 2025, the Detroit Zoo made significant progress on Fred and Barbara Erb Discovery Trails, an ambitious reimagining of the Detroit Zoo experience that will transform how guests connect with wildlife, nature and one another. The immersive new guest experience is scheduled to open in summer 2026 at the Detroit Zoo.
Other winners in the Entertainment category were:
- 313 Presents
- Cranbrook Art Museum
- Detroit Princess Riverboats
- Make It Pop Shoppe
- Michigan Science Center
- Sinbad’s Restaurant & Marina
- The Robot Garage
General Small Business
Furry Land Mobile Grooming Detroit is a locally owned and operated mobile pet grooming company serving eight counties across Metro Detroit. Founded in 2023, it began with a single grooming van and has since grown to a fleet of four, supported by a talented team of eight professional groomers. Its mission is to provide luxury mobile pet grooming in a safe, cage-free, and stress-free environment — bringing quality care and convenience right to the clients’ doors.
This year, the company’s biggest accomplishment was expanding its fleet to four grooming vans, allowing them to better serve a growing client base across Metro Detroit. This milestone reflects not only the business growth but also their commitment to providing exceptional service and creating rewarding career opportunities for the team.
Trust and transparency are vital to the success of the team and business. They believe that happy, supported groomers create the best experience for pets and their owners. Open communication, teamwork, and mutual respect are at the heart of the culture, helping groomers grow their skills, contribute ideas, and feel truly empowered as part of the company’s success.
HRPro/BenePro is one of Michigan’s premier firms specializing in HR and benefits advisory and administration. They deliver comprehensive, people-centered solutions designed to help organizations of all sizes maximize the value of their human capital investment. Their approach focuses on streamlining operations, enhancing employee engagement, reducing costs, attracting and retaining top talent, minimizing administrative complexity, improving employee communication, and driving organizational growth through both strategic and foundational initiatives.
In 2025, the company introduced two exciting new initiatives. The first is the re-launch of its Payroll and HRIS services. With cutting-edge technology and an exceptional account management team, the company is positioned for strong growth and plan to significantly expand this department in 2026. The second initiative is the launch of MyCarePro — a program designed to provide compassionate offboarding support and expert Medicare guidance. We recognized that individuals losing coverage often struggle to find affordable alternatives to COBRA. MyCarePro helps bridge that gap by connecting them with lower-cost, high-quality coverage options. This service supports individuals through major life transitions, whether due to job loss or approaching Medicare eligibility while also easing administrative burdens for broker partners and helping employers protect their brand, culture, and bottom line.
Jennifer Maxson & Associates is a comprehensive, results-driven leadership development and coaching firm recognized for its transformative impact on professionals across industries nationally and internationally. Its purpose is to inspire current and future leaders to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose and to fully unlock their potential and foster meaningful growth within their organization. They offer customized training in leadership development, team and executive coaching, strategic communication, networking, and public speaking.
Their expertise in Everything DISC assessments, personalized coaching, and dynamic training programs equips leaders at all levels from emerging leaders to executives with the tools to thrive in today’s complex professional environments. This year, their biggest accomplishment was bringing the human element back to communication and leadership. With the surge of AI and digital tools, many organizations are leaning into automation, however, clients still value and prioritize human connection internally and externally. More than 90% of programs this year were delivered in person, which is a dramatic shift from significant requests for virtual formats post pandemic. What they’re hearing is clear: Their personable approach of blending practical insights, hands-on practice, and real-world application drives meaningful performance, no matter the industry or size of a business. While technology is a powerful enabler, it can’t replace the value of shared presence, dialogue with others, and embodied learning.
At Ripcord Construction, they’re more than just builders, they’re your neighbors. For over 16 years, this family-owned company has served homeowners across Southeast Michigan and Northwest Ohio with a commitment to quality, value, and professionalism.
Whether it’s a new roof, siding, windows, or a complete home project, Ripcord believes in doing the job right the first time. The team combines expert craftsmanship with a personal touch, making sure every project not only meets but exceeds expectations.
At Ripcord Construction, the proudest achievement has been the ability to build homes right here in Southeast Michigan, the same community they grew up in and still call home. Over the years, they’ve completed more than a dozen new homes in their hometown, and each one represents a commitment to quality, value, and the people they serve. What makes them different is how they support their team. Ripcord Construction allows its staff to be professionals in their field while respecting that family comes first. Ripcord offers flexibility, understanding, and a positive work environment so the team can balance their careers and their lives at home. When people feel valued and supported, it shows in every home Ripcord builds.
SFL Companies is a 3PL (third-party logistics) provider focused on delivering reliable, personalized, and service-oriented logistics solutions. They handle a variety of services, including freight management, FTL shipping, supply chain optimization, drayage, cross-border transport, and refrigerated logistics, providing real-time updates and streamlined, paperless processes.
The firm’s biggest accomplishment this year has been navigating a challenging economy and a volatile trucking market. Much of its work centers on food and produce logistics, and with tariffs and stricter regulations in the farming and trucking industries, they’ve faced some unique challenges. The team has done an excellent job staying focused day-to-day and collaborating closely with its shipper and carrier partners. Ultimately, SFL acts as an extension of their business, serving as logistics thought leaders.
SFL promotes a positive workplace through a combination of structured initiatives and everyday practices, both inside and outside the workplace. They recognize and celebrate achievements through team events, award programs, and milestone celebrations, which help reinforce a sense of accomplishment. Employees have access to professional development opportunities, including training programs, to support growth and skill-building. They maintain open lines of communication across all levels, encouraging collaboration, feedback, and idea-sharing. Beyond the office, they foster team camaraderie and community engagement through volunteer activities and social events.
SPACE Inc. is a nationally recognized, WBENC Certified Women-Owned Small Business redefining how America works. For nearly 30 years, its Midland-based team has transformed over 10,000 workplaces designing sustainable, people-centered environments that make work life better. Through its award-winning SPACE anew program, it gives office furniture new life, reducing waste, saving clients’ money, and advancing circular design across government and private sectors. Guided by purpose and innovation, SPACE creates beautifully customized interiors that are smarter, faster, and better — no waste, no sacrifice.
The firm’s biggest accomplishment in 2025 was delivering the multi-phase Hemlock Semiconductor S-10 project, a showcase of innovation, sustainability, and client partnership. SPACE seamlessly blended new and remanufactured products through its SPACE anew program to create a modern, flexible workplace that reflects HSC’s forward-thinking vision — all while meeting a tight budget and aggressive timeline. This project exemplifies how purposeful design and circular practices can achieve beauty, functionality, and measurable environmental impact.
SPACE promotes a positive workplace by encouraging open communication, celebrating creativity, and supporting one another through every challenge. The team takes pride in meaningful work, mentoring programs, and giving back to the community through paid volunteer hours and Random Acts of Kindness. Most of all, they create an environment where people enjoy coming to work and know they’re making a difference.
Other winners in the General Small Business Category included:
- Crown Contracting Inc.
- Kin Aesthetics
- SmithGroup
- Universal Special Events, Inc.
Manufacturing Marvels
Fluid Cooling Systems, LLC is a leader in the design and manufacturing of custom process cooling and heating systems. From concept to commissioning, Fluid Cooling provides integrated, turnkey solutions that include chillers, cooling towers, pump skids, heat exchangers, filtration, and control systems.
Founded on engineering expertise and driven by innovation, FCS built a reputation for solving complex thermal challenges with reliable, efficient, and intelligently designed equipment. Our team combines mechanical, electrical, and controls engineering under one roof, allowing them to deliver complete, factory-tested systems that perform from day one.
Headquartered in a new 76,000+-square-foot. facility in Flint, Fluid Cooling Systems continues to expand its capabilities and product lines to serve customers across North America. Our success is powered by a team-oriented culture that values integrity, creativity, and technical excellence, all focused on one goal: keeping customers’ operations running cool, efficient, and dependable.
FCS’s biggest achievement in 2025 was moving into their new headquarters in Flint, a milestone that represents how far the firm has come. What started in a much smaller building has grown into a state-of-the-art facility. The new space features a bright, collaborative 12,000-square-foot office and a 24-foot-high manufacturing area built to handle expanding production needs. But beyond the numbers, this move is a reflection of its evolution as a company. The building’s modern design, improved location, and professional image better represent the innovation, quality, and energy that define Fluid Cooling Systems today. It’s not just a bigger space; it’s a symbol of continued growth and confidence we have in the future.
Other winners in the Manufacturing Marvels category included:
- Ascent Aerospace
- Conform Automotive
- Mayco International
- Nylok
- Piston Group
- Theut Products
- Tooling Tech Group
- SMT Automation
- ZF North America
Marketing & PR Prophets
8THIRTYFOUR is a full-service public relations and digital agency built on the belief that strategy only works when it’s integrated, authentic, and human. It brings together PR, digital marketing, and strategic communications to help brands tell their story, connect with their communities, and drive measurable results.
Founded by Kim Bode, 8THIRTYFOUR is built for brands and leaders who want real connection and lasting impact. The team crafts thoughtful, data-backed strategies that blend creativity with execution, from media relations and content marketing to digital storytelling and community partnerships. Beyond client work, the firm is deeply committed to empowering small businesses and women entrepreneurs. Through mentorship, advocacy, and initiatives like the Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship, it helps business owners grow with confidence.
The company’s proudest accomplishment this year has been the continued growth and success of the Small Business Association of Michigan’s Women’s Entrepreneurial Fellowship. This program was created to uplift and equip women business owners with the resources, mentorship, and strategic support they need to take their companies to the next level. Through the Fellowship, they’ve helped build a space where women can learn, connect, and collaborate, helping each other navigate challenges and celebrate wins. Seeing the women in this program grow their confidence, expand their reach, and embrace their own “Big Deal Energy” has been one of the most rewarding parts of the year.
Arcminute Marketing, LLC is a digital marketing agency based in Plymouth, established in 2017. They believe in the power of connection — connecting solutions to problems, businesses to their audiences, and communities to opportunities. The mission is to provide digital marketing services, such as search engine optimization, AISEO optimization, Google Ads, social media advertising, CTV advertising, display advertising, and media production, to businesses of all sizes.
This year, they’ve continued to expand their work with automotive dealerships, a cornerstone of the client base. Located in Southeast Michigan, the heart of the automotive industry, Arcminute takes pride in helping dealerships nationwide grow. Its blue-collar approach to marketing reflects the hardworking spirit of the region, and they’re honored to contribute to the success of an industry so deeply connected to the community.
Additionally, Arcminute is” immensely proud” of how they’ve positioned clients to thrive amidst the seismic shift towards AI search. This cultural change has transformed consumer behavior. By strategically integrating AIEO tactics with traditional SEO, they’ve ensured clients appear in AI search results throughout 2025. Our approach has provided stability and generated significant leads for clients, even as many brands face steep declines in traditional search channels.
Envision Advertising Design & Video Production, LLC specializes in graphic design and video production, the two core pillars that power everything they do. They believe that with the right visuals, you can tell your story. From logos to motion graphics, brochures to brand videos, they create advertising that drives awareness, builds connection, brings a brand to life, and allows you to focus on your business.
Envision’s greatest accomplishment this year has been expanding its role from a trusted creative partner to a true connector within the business community. Led by President JR Harper, Envision, a WBENC and WOSB-certified company, delivered exceptional design and video projects while actively opening doors for others. The company strengthened its client base, championed supplier diversity, and used its 30+ years of expertise to create opportunities that ripple far beyond its own business.
This year, Envision sponsored several events, contributed as a WBE Forum panelist, and participated in the GLWBC MentorWe program. These activities, combined with national leadership development through the Tuck Business School, positioned the company as both a leader and a resource.
Envision also gave back through creative work for nonprofits, ongoing mentorship of emerging leaders, and consistent referrals that sparked new partnerships across industries. Each of these actions reflects the company’s commitment to building stronger supply chains, fostering innovation, and elevating women-owned businesses.
Franco, based in Detroit since 1964, is an integrated communications agency that builds strategic PR, marketing, social media, advertising and creative services programs for clients in sectors in which the firm is experienced and invested, including auto/mobility, consumer, economic development, education, healthcare, nonprofit and technology. Franco doesn’t just deliver communications and marketing tactics; they create unmatched value through a unique fusion of deep client care and forward-thinking innovation.
The company’s communications programs, strategies and content, enabled by technology and empathic listening, leads to proactively solving complex and time-consuming problems. Clients choose Franco because they lead with empathy, act with purpose and never settle for average. With Franco, clients gain a partner as invested in their success as they are.
Franco acquired Bianchi Public Relations in early 2025. They have a long history with Jim Bianchi and his company. Tina Kozak interned there, and Tina Sullivan worked there for several years. The firms often referred business to each other. The timing was right in late 2024, and they began an intensive due-diligence process to determine if acquiring Bianchi PR was the right fit for Franco. Culture fit was the number one priority. Bianchi’s clients are all in the automotive industry (suppliers and industry associations), and the acquisition strengthened Franco’s already strong auto/mobility expertise.
Other winners in the Marketing & PR Prophets category included:
- Digital Media Solutions
- The Quell Group
- Yellow Lime Creative
Non-Profit Beacons
Grand Rapids Ballet Company is Michigan’s home for professional ballet. Established in 1972, the company has transformed into a world-class company, attracting internationally renowned dancers and choreographers over its 53-year history. The Ballet produces five productions annually, featuring the talents of 20 full-time professional dancers, and is home to the Grand Rapids Ballet School that serves students ages 3-93 in its Young Dancer, Pre-Professional and Adult programs.
The Grand Rapids Ballet’s world-premiere production of Sherlock, created by the company’s resident choreographer, Penny Saunders, has garnered national attention, earning features in Dance Magazine and the Washington Post. This production, broke box office record with Grand Rapids audiences, warranting the addition of a 4th showing due to popular demand.
At the Grand Rapids Ballet, they believe a supportive and inclusive workplace is essential for both artistic excellence and organizational success. The Ballet promotes a positive environment by fostering open communication, collaboration, and respect among dancers, staff, and leadership. We actively seek to create an environment where the team feels valued and empowered by celebrating everyone’s unique contributions to our shared successes. The Ballet contributes to the cultural richness of the community and region through both world-class performances and educational outreach. Its team of artists and administrative staff is passionate, skilled, and deeply committed to the mission.
The Michigan Ovarian Cancer Alliance promotes the early detection of ovarian cancer and improved treatment outcomes, and raises awareness of ovarian cancer, provides resources and support to survivors and their families, advocates both locally and federally, educates Michigan communities, and funds innovative ovarian cancer research.
Over the years, MIOCA has worked continuously to fund critical ovarian cancer research, provide support programs for survivors and their loved ones, and raise awareness across the state. This award not only recognizes past achievements but also motivates them to continue pushing forward in the years to come.
The group not only helps patients but also has support groups available. They also do, at the point of diagnosis or when somebody has a recurrence or throughout treatment, they can request support from us, and they have resources and information available.
Executive Director Megan Neubauer said the group needs people to get involved and, while often attracting folks who’ve been directly impacted, it doesn’t always reach everybody in the state.
“We’re so honored to be a part of it because, as an organization and serving folks with ovarian cancer, often it’s under-researched and under-funded and just doesn’t get a lot of publicity,” Neubauer said.
Other winners in the Nonprofit Beacons category included:
- Alliance of Coalitions for Healthy Communities
- Automotive Women’s Alliance Foundation
- East Side Community Network
- Ozone House
- The Unity Collaborative
Succession Successes
M&M Garage Doors is Michigan’s trusted name for garage door repair and replacement. What started as a one-man operation in New Haven has grown into a statewide brand with offices in Detroit, Grand Rapids and Traverse City. They’re proud to serve homeowners across Michigan with fast, reliable service, clean installations, and industry-leading products. Their focus has always been simple: deliver exceptional craftsmanship backed by genuine care for our customers and communities.
This year, M&M’s biggest accomplishment has been expanding its presence while keeping quality at the forefront. They’ve grown their team, added new markets, and strengthened partnerships—all while maintaining a call booking rate and closing rate that reflect the trust customers place in them. Beyond the numbers, they’re most proud of continuing to provide the level of service that earns five-star reviews day after day.
At M&M, the people are the heart of the business. M&M fosters a positive workplace by supporting career growth, offering training and mentorship, and creating a culture where every employee feels valued. Leadership is hands-on and approachable, encouraging feedback and collaboration. They also give back through community sponsorships and events, reinforcing the pride the team feels in being part of something bigger than just a job.
Other winners in the Succession Successes category included:
- Eikenhkout Inc.
- Joe Randazzo Fruit & Vegetable Market
- Stafford’s Bay View Inn
Sustainable Superheroes
Winners in the Sustainable Superheroes category included:
- Fibre Converters
- GT Eastside Recycling
- My Green Michigan
- NEW AGE Landmark
- Peckham Inc.
- Timber Ridge
- Wood Products
Talent Stars
Young Entrepreneurs Across America (YEAA) is a business management company specializing in guiding college students as they learn to run their own businesses. Each year YEAA brings on interns and provides them with hands-on training in entrepreneurship, from launching and managing a business to developing essential skills in marketing, sales, payroll, communication, and leadership. The program offers a one-of-a-kind experience, giving students real world responsibilities that go far beyond a traditional internship. Now entering its 40th season, YEAA has built a network of more than 3,000 alumni who have launched their careers.
YEAA promotes a positive workplace for its office staff by holding 15-minute mid-week breaks where the staff gets together just to talk about anything other than work. The most recent event included dinner and a comedy show. YEAA takes pride in bringing the company’s people together. They also promote a positive workplace through their quote of the week. Each week, a member of the staff is assigned to write a new quote on the whiteboard in the office. Each staff member also chose a word for the year that is printed out on their desk. The word represents their goals for the year and what they believe is important to them.
Other winners in the Talent Stars category included:
- NPA Worldwide
- Segal
- Winged IT
- Yeo & Yeo HR Advisory Solutions
Taste Sensations
Brooklyn Street Local LLC: In January 2012 Jason and Deveri moved from Toronto to 1266 Michigan Avenue in Detroit, a former diner that had been closed for two years. They set up sleeping bags on the table tops and for two weeks camped out at the restaurant, trying to figure out what they had gotten ourselves into. Brooklyn Street Local opened five months later in May 2012. The restaurant offers breakfast, lunch, brunch and catering, featuring ingredients from local Detroit and Michigan farms whenever possible. They are dedicated to quality food, environmentally sustainable practices and being good community members.
The business has grown and changed over the years, but what has stayed the same is the desire to serve food diners can trust in a space that is warm and welcoming. In February 2025 they launched Poutine for the People. Each month, it features a poutine created by a local guest chef. The profits from the poutine go to a different non-profit organization each month. The dish is available all month long. As of September, they had raised more than $5,000 for nonprofits.
They said it has been a “really wonderful experience” to reconnect with other local chefs. Their creativity around recipe creation has been inspiring. Customers and staff have loved it, and they have loved the opportunity to work with amazing chefs, to highlight them and the organizations doing good work.
Other winners in the Taste Sensations category included:
- Art & Jakes
- Jet’s Pizza
- Koege Meat
- National Coney Island
- Thistle Gate Farms
- Wolverine Packing
Technology Gurus
GT Independence is a family founded, national financial management service provider, on a mission to help people live life according to their choosing regardless of age or ability. The company supports people with disabilities and aging in place in directing their own home and community-based services by administering the financial, technical, and legal aspects of hiring and managing their own staff. The Carmichaels founded GT Independence in 2004 after personally experiencing the rewards and challenges of helping a family member with self-directed services.
GT Independence has expanded from its home state of Michigan to serve more than 55,000 individuals across 18 states and the District of Columbia.
This year, GT Independence made major advancements in how technology supports self-direction, a person-centered model of support that puts the person receiving services in control. One of its most significant advancements was building and launching eNitial, an e-signature platform that gives participants and their employees deeper control over the onboarding process while significantly increasing automation and speed. In addition, new referral workflows in the GT Portal now allow for real-time monitoring of referrals and enrollments, helping ensure that participants receive services faster and with fewer administrative barriers.
Other winners in the Technology Gurus category included:
- Airspace Link
- Canopy
- Michigan Central
- Synergy Fiber
- XFER Communications
Triple-Trusted Advisors
Franklin Benefit Solutions. Since its founding in 2006, Franklin has been privileged to work with the finest employers, municipalities, and nonprofit organizations, helping craft unique benefit solutions for their needs. Over the years, the employee benefits world has undergone significant change, but the overriding concern of Franklin’s clients has not – providing world-class benefits that attract and retain employees while taking advantage of innovations in the marketplace is the top priority.
Franklin Benefit’s average client tenure is 18.5 years. “The most rewarding part for me is servicing clients as a trusted advisor, helping them realize their vision, eliminate risks, and seize opportunities,” said Michal Spleet II, CEO. “We are all committed to making healthcare easier and more affordable.”
“The challenges of 2025 created an opportunity for our team to truly shine,” said President Stacy LaFay.
The company culture and relationships with employees are the “bedrock of our organization. Our employees are valued, trusted, and encouraged to develop professionally and personally. We hire great people and give them the freedom to be awesome,” said Connie Gartee, Senior Account Manager.
LYH CPA & Associates is a distinguished accounting practice recognized for its outstanding professionalism, community leadership, and commitment to excellence. Founded by a highly skilled CPA with a diverse background in financial roles from Fiscal Officer to Executive Director, the firm provides unparalleled accounting, tax, and consulting services to small businesses, international clients, and nonprofits. As a minority-owned firm, LYH emphasizes ethical leadership, personalized client relationships, and a mission-driven approach that integrates technical expertise with a heart for service.
The firm’s biggest accomplishment this year has been the successful acquisition and seamless integration of Scott Lowery CPA, P.C., a respected Northville practice with over 30 years of trusted service. Finalized in January 2025, this strategic expansion allowed LYH to preserve the legacy and client relationships of the acquired firm while enhancing service capabilities.
LYH CPA Firm fosters a positive workplace through a culture rooted in integrity, inclusivity, and professional growth. As a minority woman in finance, the founder champions diversity and understands the value of empowering underrepresented voices. The firm also emphasizes holistic client relationships and ethical frameworks, often guided by biblical principles, which contribute to a purpose-driven and supportive work environment.
Other winners in the Triple-Trusted Advisors category included:
- 4square Advisory
- Advance Capital Management
- Schneider Associates
- Vistage Michigan
Wellness & Wellbeing
DiPilla Dentistry is a leading dental practice dedicated to providing exceptional care in a luxurious, welcoming and spa-like environment. It has a distinguished team that focuses on personalized attention and a holistic wellness approach, recognizing the direct connection between a patient’s oral and overall health. With cutting edge technology like AI diagnostics for X-rays, 3D imaging, red light therapy, DNA testing and more, DiPilla offers a comprehensive range of services.
Opening its new office in Birmingham has been a milestone achievement. The expanded space, which is more than four times larger than the previous location, allows them to deliver elevated patient care with the latest cutting-edge technologies. From digital smile design and advanced laser treatments to luxurious, private patient suites, this office embodies our vision of dentistry’s future: more efficient, comfortable and holistic care that supports oral and overall health. The move also enabled DiPilla Dentistry to increase capacity from three to nine operatories and grow our team by more than 30%, ensuring we can continue to meet growing patient demand while upholding our concierge-level experience.
Mentorship and collaboration are at the core of DiPilla’s workplace culture. Every team member is encouraged to grow professionally and personally, with opportunities for training, shadowing and peer-to-peer learning.
Gentek Health LLC is a global leader in end-to-end Revenue Cycle Management (RCM) solutions, helping healthcare providers achieve operational excellence, compliance, and financial clarity. Guided by innovation and powered by a diverse global workforce, Gentek transforms complexity into opportunity. The commitment to impact, integrity, and growth drives them to deliver smarter solutions that empower providers to focus on what truly matters: patient care.
Gentek Health doesn’t just manage revenue, they architect resilience. This year, Gentek has expanded its global client portfolio, enhanced compliance systems, and deepened investments in cross-border talent development. These milestones reflect Gentek’s purpose-driven strategy: precision powered by people. As they continue to scale their global footprint, they remain committed to innovation, integrity, and leadership that transforms complexity into clarity for partners.
Gentek is redefining what it means to work well. They believe that a thriving culture begins with trust, inclusion, and wellbeing. Through purpose-driven leadership, mental wellness initiatives, and flexible work models, Gentek empowers its teams to innovate, collaborate, and grow. Transparent communication, cross-border mentorship, and continuous learning opportunities ensure every voice is heard and every achievement celebrated because when their people thrive, their clients thrive, too.
rethink.: Eating disorders are hard. There isn’t any way around it. Hard is the goal of each and every eating disorder. The harder it makes it for those battling, the more likely the eating disorder is to win. It’s not just the eating disorder that makes recovery difficult; it’s the treatment as well. Families become overwhelmed, patients get tired and it’s tough to find a team that meets them where they are and supports them when it is all too much.
The rethink. team came together because they were tired of the hard, and one of the hardest parts of this treatment is it is not a one-person job. In addition to the patient and family, it takes a whole crew including a physician, therapist, dietitian, psychiatrist and maybe even a step up in care now and then to battle an eating disorder. But bouncing between offices, explaining your story for the tenth time, and hoping everyone’s talking to each other? That’s exhausting.
At rethink., they know a happy team makes for better care. Their collaborative approach means everyone’s ideas matter, and team outings help connect outside the office. As a start-up, their biggest win has been getting off the ground. As a team they stumbled, learned and grew, and all the while, they leaned on each other and picked up a ton of knowledge along the way. The best part by far has been watching our patients get better faster.
Toothworks PC is a pediatric dental practice serving infants, children, adolescents and special needs patients in the Detroit area. They have been in practice for over 32 years and pride themselves on delivering excellent care to all families in a compassionate environment.
Dentists at the practice, located in Grosse Pointe Woods, are dedicated to constructing positive dental experiences, ensuring that every visit is stress-free and enjoyable, laying the groundwork for your child’s dental health with top-notch care and a friendly atmosphere.
Toothworks strives to provide the highest quality dental care for infants, children, and adolescents and to build a practice which allows us to provide comprehensive care in a comfortable, pleasant setting, to treat each patient with dignity, respect, kindness, and compassion, to demonstrate that every patient is valued in this practice and to serve our community through preventive dentistry, educational programs and other outreach projects and to complete the vision of their newly expanded facility enabling us to serve double the number of patients, especially children from underserved communities.
The National Kidney Foundation of Michigan has been dedicated to serving communities across the state for 70 years. Its mission is to prevent kidney disease and improve the quality of life for those living with it. Through innovative programs, services, and resources, the foundation empowers lives of all ages.
The NKFM is consistently given high marks from the top charity evaluation organizations in the country. With 4 stars from Charity Navigator, a platinum rating from Candid, and meeting all 20 priorities for the Better Business Bureau, officials are happy their focus on transparency and outcomes is recognized among the best. This year, the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan advanced its mission through significant progress in its Health Systems Interventions work. By partnering with Medicaid health plans and care providers, they helped improve care and prevention for people most at risk of kidney disease.
The NKFM conducted quality improvement projects with 13 clinics, with 10 of the 13 showing improved chronic kidney disease screening rates among high-risk patients. This initiative reached and impacted 17,491 patients and individuals living with diabetes and high blood pressure who are at greater risk for CKD. In addition, the NKFM supported quality improvement efforts at four federally qualified health centers, helping to ensure 10,676 patients with diabetes received recommended diabetic eye exams.
Other winners in the Wellness & Wellbeing category included:
- BizStream
- Eaton Rapids Medical Center
- Family Health Care (Baldwin)
- Genessee Health System
Check out all the entire photo gallery from the 2025 Best of MichBusiness Event here.
