Seventeen local businesses were recognized last Thursday at the 2025 Small Business Awards, held Thursday, July 31, at the Montrose Pavilion. The annual event celebrates excellence in entrepreneurship and the vital role small businesses play in the Montrose community.

The event was hosted by Our Town Matters in partnership with the City of Montrose, the Montrose Development and Revitalization Team (DART), the Montrose Business Times, and Atlasta Solar Center.

In addition to the business awards, a special Small Business Hall of Fame presentation was made to Jim Elder, founder of ElderAdo Financial. Elder, a longtime business leader in Montrose, announced during the ceremony that he has recently transitioned ownership of the business to his daughter, Jaimee Carnes.

Carnes spoke during the event, thanking the Montrose community for its support and for honoring the business’ legacy.

The awards event featured food, networking, and a celebration of small business resilience, innovation, and impact in the region.

Honorees for this year’s awards included:

Atha Team – Keller Williams

Blackout Graphics

Davis Service Center

Elite Dog Walking

Glass Doctor of Montrose

Great Outdoors Company

Jack The Clipper, By Kelly

Lambert & Associates

Merritt Contracting Solutions

Ouray Silversmiths

Parish Oil

Peak Professionals

Soak Wellness Spa

The Screen Medic

The Stone House

Trek Bicycle Montrose