Nearly 60% of every animal raised for consumption turns into land-filling, methane-emitting, ozone-depleting food waste. Since 2006, AgroThrive has converted this waste into organic bio-fertilizers that can be used in all types of farms and gardens. 

Inspired by a drive to connect professionally in an age of remote and hybrid work, Culture With Us creates fun, memorable virtual and in-person experiences for coworkers to share. The company offers a wide range of events to bring teams together, from culinary classes to live entertainment.

The Cupcake Collection makes sweet treats with premium ingredients that pay homage to their founder’s Louisiana heritage. They also serve as a model small business in their community, giving back to organizations that focus on education, food insecurity, and homelessness.

Ducoterra makes affordable infrared heating panels, a clean, energy-efficient electric heating solution. The company also utilizes sustainable production processes and has a zero-waste manufacturing facility.

KindVR helps lower pediatric patients’ stress and pain through virtual reality therapies and applications customized to specific medical procedures. Working in 75 different children’s hospitals, KindVR is also this year’s healthcare winner!

Pinole Blue offers a line of products made from pinole—powdered roasted ground maize mixed with spices. Using 100% USDA organic blue corn in its cookies, protein mixes, and stone-ground tortillas, Pinole Blue works to connect cultures and honor ancient culinary recipes.  

While they may have started out in a basement, today SJC Custom Drums counts Green Day, Twenty One Pilots, and Slipknot among their customers. Their made-to-order and in-stock instruments offer a rich, powerful experience for any drummer.

Founded by a welder who was tired of sparks and burns eating through his clothes, Up In Smoke Welding Apparel produces durable, high-quality gear that protects skin, offers an excellent range of motion, and looks stylish. The company also aims to reduce waste by replacing cheap, disposable clothing with long-lasting wear.

Wallaroo Hat Company offers a large selection of stylish hats for men, women, and children that prioritize sun protection. For more than two decades, they’ve been spreading awareness of skin cancer and keeping customers protected with their high-quality hats.  

BAYDOG makes stylish and functional products for canine companions of every shape, size, and activity level, and is dedicated to supporting brick and mortar pet store retailers. Founded in 2018 by a Marine pilot, BAYDOG is also this year’s U.S. veteran winner!