Albany Area Chamber of Commerce celebrates region’s top businesses, organizations and emerging leaders at 2025 Business Awards & Albany Under 40 Awards
Albany, Ga. — The Albany Area Chamber of Commerce honored excellence, innovation, leadership, and community impact at two signature annual events this month: the 2025 Albany Area Chamber Business Awards and the Albany Under 40 Awards, presented by the Chamber’s Young Professionals Committee. Together, the events recognized outstanding organizations and the region’s most promising young professionals who are shaping Albany’s future.
Both ceremonies highlighted the strength, diversity, and momentum of Albany’s business ecosystem — from legacy institutions and fast-growing small businesses to trailblazing entrepreneurs and mission-driven nonprofits.
2025 Albany Area Chamber Business Award Winners
The Business Awards program recognizes organizations demonstrating outstanding achievement, innovation, leadership, and community commitment. Winners were selected from dozens of nominations reviewed through the Chamber’s rigorous evaluation process. This event was held at Doublegate County Club and was presented by Flint Community Bank.
Uniquely Albany Award—Flint RiverQuarium Honored for its exceptional role in environmental education, conservation storytelling and serving as an anchor attraction celebrating the Flint River’s unique ecosystems.
Women-Owned Business of the Year—Tasty Cravings & More Recognized for delivering personalized culinary experiences, exceptional client service, and meaningful community engagement.
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year—Prosperity Financial Consultants, LLC A disabled veteran-owned financial services firm known for advancing financial security and education for families and businesses across the country.
Nonprofit of the Year—Junior League of Albany Celebrated for its expanding membership, hands-on community projects, and strong partnerships enhancing the lives of children and families.
Small Business of the Year—Jones Welding & Industrial Supplies, Inc. For more than three decades of industry leadership as Georgia’s largest independently owned welding and industrial distributorship, and for its commitment to service, safety, and regional economic support.
Albany Under 40 Awards: Honoring the Region’s Rising Leaders
The Albany Under 40 Awards recognize professionals under the age of 40 who demonstrate excellence in their profession, leadership in their industry, and a commitment to community.
This year’s AU40 category winners are:
Public Affairs, Journalism, Marketing & Public Relations
Zack Barlow – WALB-TV
Technology, Innovation & Start-Up
Jodie Kretzer – Invision Technologies, LLC
Youth & Education
Kabreel McEachin – Albany State University
Sports, Wellness & Fitness
Colton Glover – G3 Athletics & Performance
Arts, Entertainment, Culinary Arts, Events, Tourism & Hospitality
Harry Day – Flint River Entertainment Complex
Financial & Insurance Services
Britny Wray – Albany Motorcars
Manufacturing, Service Industries, Energy & Architecture
Ayunna Jones – Georgia-Pacific
Medicine & Health Care
Dr. Darren Evans – Phoebe Putney Memorial Hospital
Nonprofit Service
Darryl Brooks, Jr. – Forever Felton
These rising leaders represent the next generation of innovators, educators, creators, entrepreneurs and change-makers who are investing their talent and passion into the Albany area.
Celebrating Albany’s Momentum
“Our business community sets the tone for Albany’s success, and this year’s winners reminded us just how much passion, grit, and innovation lives right here at home,” said Smith Wilson Chair of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. “These businesses are supporting families, investing in people, and strengthening the foundation that keeps our economy moving.”
“These young professionals represent the very best of Albany — hardworking people, bold thinkers, and servant-leaders who show up every day to make this community better,” said Matt Reed, Interim President of the Albany Area Chamber of Commerce. “Whether they’re running a business, leading a nonprofit, or shaping the future in their workplace, they’re investing in the people around them. That’s the kind of leadership that moves a community forward.”
“The energy and passion of this year’s honorees is contagious,” said Lisa Stephens, Chair of the Chamber’s Talent Catalyst Committee. “You can feel how much they care — about their work and this community. These young professionals aren’t just building careers; they’re building Albany’s future. It’s exciting, and honestly, it makes you proud to call this place home.”
Copyright 2025 South Georgia News. All rights reserved.
