Ensuring Meridian has a thriving economy is a true team effort. With a business-friendly climate, ease of access, efficient processes, exceptional lifestyle and supportive community, more companies are choosing to locate in Meridian. Additionally, Meridian’s average worker wage has increased to over $58,000 per year, a 5% rise from last year.
When it comes to setting the foundation to support, foster, and address the challenges that come with being a business owner in today's economy, the City of Meridian is thankful to partner with two amazing Chamber organizations, the Meridian Chamber of Commerce and the Boise Metro Chamber. Most people don’t realize that these local chamber organizations are not part of the City government. Chambers of Commerce are funded by their member businesses, who value collaboration, networking, and foster an atmosphere of shared success. This is why they are so effective at creating opportunities for economic growth and addressing community challenges.
Business Excellence Awards
With over 900 members dedicated to supporting the companies that form the backbone of our City, the Meridian Chamber of Commerce is the leading advocate for main street businesses. Last week, they celebrated our small business community with its annual Business Excellence Awards. The event highlighted several businesses that continue to thrive and influence our community.
2025 Business Excellence Award winners include:
- The Small Business (1-10 employees) recipient is International Minute Press who exemplifies the best of Meridian’s small business community through creative, high-quality printing and heartfelt community service, exemplified when they provided free print work for several deserving area nonprofits.
- The Small Business (11-50 employees) recipient is Las Calaveras who have helped transform downtown Meridian into a vibrant, community-focused destination with creativity in menu, connecting clientele, and energizing surrounding businesses by hosting outdoor concerts at Generations Plaza.
- The Small Business (50+ employees) recipient is Sorren, a company that combines trusted financial expertise with a deep commitment to community impact, exemplifying business leadership rooted in integrity, service, and lasting relationships.
- The Woman Owned Business of the Year is Ancora Health Services, led by Dani Henson, who continues to make a profound impact in healthcare by exemplifying compassionate, mission-driven care and community leadership.
- The Small Business Leader of the Year is Capell Flooring & Interiors who has embodied integrity, service, and community spirit which has led them to win Best Flooring Store for six years running. Their commitment to excellence is matched by a culture of creativity, joy, and a commitment to making a difference.
- The New Business of the Year is Idaho Pups & Ales where rescue dog adoptions meet local beer nights. The new restaurant has quickly become a heartwarming hub for community and pets.
- The Philanthropic Business of the Year is Tamarack Grove Engineering. From building beds for children with Sleep in Heavenly Peace to launching the Clays for a Cause fundraiser that raised $20,000 for Idaho nonprofits, Tamarack Grove Engineering exemplifies how a business can build both great projects and a stronger community.
The accomplishments of these businesses deserve to be highlighted, and I hope that you take the opportunity to join me in congratulating them. These businesses and many more make a daily impact to our City by employing our residents, providing essential services, increasing our economic vitality, and setting up our community for long-term success.
About the author
Mayor Simison