In a January 18, 2017 press release, The Award Program honors small businesses that demonstrate excellent marketing success, community involvement, and innovative business practices in the marketplace. The press release states that Small Business Excellence Award Program focus on quality, not quantity. The award is based on recognition of outstanding businesses that serve the local area. Award Program staff augment their own gathered information with third party data. Recognition is given to those companies that have shown the ability to use their best practices and implemented programs to generate competitive advantages and long-term value. The press release states that “businesses such as Lean Learning Center enhance the positive image of small business through service to their customers and our community. These exceptional companies help make the area a vibrant and vital place to live.”[2] In addition to its advanced curriculum for business entrepreneurs, managers and Chief Learning Officers, Lean Learning Center has developed a learning environment designed specifically for adult learning. The program utilizes techniques that include discovery simulations, case studies, personal planning, and reflection—ultimately engaging people at a deep and personal level. Lean services include: Customized Training and Development, Demonstration Projects, Integrated Lean Assessment, Kaizen Workshops, Lean Basics, Lean Leadership and Coaching, Lean Learning Laboratory, Management Lean Learning Laboratory, Lean Six Sigma, and Value Stream Improvement. The Troy Small Business Excellence Awards were established to reward the best of small businesses in Troy. The organization works exclusively with local business owners, trade groups, professional associations and other business advertising and marketing groups. Their mission is to award the small business community’s contribution to the U.S. economy. In 2012, the University of Michigan‐Dearborn’s eCities’ initiative named Troy one of eight Southeast Michigan a “Top Performing Community” for attracting and retaining entrepreneurial companies. [3] [1] http://www.smallbusinessexcellence.org/ [2] Ibid. [3] https://www.troymi.gov/Portals/0/Files/EconomicDevelopment/Troy_GreatPlaceToStartBusiness.pdf
[1] the Directors of the Small Business Excellence Award Program announced the selection of the Lean Learning Center for the 2016 Troy Small Business Excellence Award in the Adult Education classification.
