Navy vet and Topeka native Tim Miller learned to smoke meat on a ship’s deck, and now he’s bringing global BBQ flavors to a beloved local bar.

Manny Herron, owner of IPG Building Company, won the Minority-Owned Small Business Award and TopCity Business of the Year at the 2025 Small Business Awards, focusing on community-driven development and Midwest expansion.

These three family businesses show you don’t have to choose between success and staying true to your values.

“We want this to be a place where people like to come and where they can make a good living. These are highly skilled jobs, and our people should know how much we value them.” 

Hosted By GO Topeka | Sponsored By Kansas Department of Commerce

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Brian White with Polo Custom Products shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Capitol Federal CEO John Dicus shares personal leadership lessons, including how trust guided the bank through tough times.

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Ashley Esquibel with Envista Credit Union shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

In an industry where family dealerships are getting absorbed by corporate chains, Laird Noller Ford has stayed in the same family for four generations.

Kendall Construction recently relocated to its new office and warehouse at 3135 NW 25th St.—a move that supports its growing team and expanding project load as part of a long-term investment in the company’s future.

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Nicki Flanagan with BCBS of Kansas shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Del-Metrius Herron, owner of Del-Metrius Herron & Associates, earned the Veteran-Owned Small Business Award at the 2025 Small Business Awards, recognized for her resilient journey from IT to real estate and her commitment to building a strong, adaptable team.

Fred Polzin, co-founder of PT’s Coffee Roasting Co., earned the Small Business Manufacturing Award for their commitment to quality coffee and community support.

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Lamar Leon with Midland Care Connection shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Every business knows company culture matters, but how do you create one that works? Six local HR experts reveal their secrets for developing cultures where people actually want to work.

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Eric Jennings with McElroy’s shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Company culture matters—but how do you build one that really works? HR leaders Leanna James with SSC Advisors shares real-world strategies for creating workplaces where people want to be.

Martha Bartlett Piland, owner of MB Piland Advertising + Marketing, won the Legacy in Business Award at the 2025 Small Business Awards. Her company focuses on community impact and strategic marketing, especially through millennial research.

Abbey Brown, owner of The Brownstone, received the Woman-Owned Small Business Award at the 2025 Small Business Awards, recognized for her community-driven venue and commitment to elevating Topeka’s event industry.

Checking out books is just the beginning at the Topeka & Shawnee County Public Library. A recent renovation added a Kids Library with special areas for children, teens and their families to learn and play.