Courtesy Small Business Association
Three local small businesses were recognized during National Small Business Week at the U.S. Small Business Administration’s 20th annual Small Business Excellence Awards luncheon in Albany in May.
Small businesses are selected for the Excellence Awards based on longevity, innovation, sales growth, increased employment, ability to overcome adversity or community contributions.
Among those honored was Armor Group Insurance Agency based in Clifton Park. Robert Cowan started the business in 2013. “Through his highly-effective targeted marketing efforts, outstanding salesmanship and super
The agency sells and services personal, commercial, and casualty lines in New York, Florida, and soon in New Jersey
Sinclair Saratoga a bar/restaurant in Saratoga Springs, received an award. Hilary Morrison opened in the summer of 2017 with financial assistance from Adirondack Trust Co. and SBA. A family name, Sinclair has three levels, an old-school arcade room, the main bar and lounge, and a private event space and dance club. In addition to a full-service restaurant, Sinclair offers 24 taps of state craft beers.
North East Fire Protection Systems Inc., based in Ballston Spa also received an award. NEFPSI is a fire protection company offering design, fabrication, installation, inspection, testing and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems.
Founded in 1978 by James and Jennifer Fantauzzi, NEFPSI has worked on projects from Maine to Connecticut and Pennsylvania, but their main market remains the 15 counties of eastern Upstate New York. NEFPSI is a family-owned business with daughter Stacey and brother in-law Mike Phinney joining the business in 2014. Stacey and Cary Stewart, the head of the design team, are poised to continue the legacy.
“The 20th Annual Small Business Excellence Awards luncheon gives us the opportunity to celebrate our business community leaders for their small business successes,” said Bernard J. Paprocki, SBA Syracuse district director. “Small business owners develop deep community connections, provide the critical backbone of our economy, employ local residents, and contribute to the vibrancy and innovation of our nation.”