SAN FRANCISCO – Business and community leaders convened at the SHN Orpheum theater last night to celebrate the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce’s 26th annual Excellence in Business (Ebbies) Awards and to enjoy a private showcase of Disney’s hit Broadway musical Aladdin.
More than a quarter century ago, the Chamber created the Ebbies to honor San Francisco businesses for their innovation, to celebrate their vision, and publicly appreciate their contributions to their employees and our community.
“The Ebbies recognize companies and individuals that reflect our City’s vast geographical, professional and individual differences. But together we are the collective engine fueling our local economy, keeping our city strong and helping to create a culture that is so uniquely San Francisco.” said Tallia Hart, President & CEO of the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce. “This year’s winners reflect that diversity, representing small business, entrepreneurship, technology and the non-profit sector. Our honorees are using their passion and persistence to develop solutions for some of the biggest problems our city faces, and pushing San Francisco’s vibrant economy to greater heights.”
Presented by Bank of America, two-time Emmy winner and famed film critic Jan Wahl served as mistress of ceremonies, while guests nibbled on food from McCalls Catering and Events, and beverages from BBC, Anheuser-Busch, and Barefoot Wine.
During the the awards presentation, guests were treated to a private showcase of the hit musical Aladdin, which is currently at the SHN Orpheum theater, the Chamber’s Official Partner.
“I’m so proud to be part of this community, and part of the Chamber which since 1850 has been providing leadership on issues important to business,” said Hart. “We’ve recognized more than 160 companies and individuals since the Ebbies began in 1991, and we are honored to welcome these seven new winners into that elite group.”
Winners of the 2017 Ebbies awards include:
Building San Francisco Award: Mercy Housing
Businesswoman of the Year Award: Jamie Gentner of Center Hardware
Economic Development Award: SPUR
Innovation through Technology Award: SafeBreach
Small Business of the Year Award: Zebra Awning Company, Inc.
Sustainability Award: Omni San Francisco Hotel
Excellence in Business Award: Lyft
More information on the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce and the Ebbies is available at www.SFChamber.com.
# # #
Founded in 1850, the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce is recognized as the preeminent business organization for advocacy, networking and economic growth. The Chamber delivers on its mission to attract, develop and retain business in San Francisco by representing companies and organizations that make San Francisco a preferred destination for businesses and visitors.