Five minority-owned businesses were awarded membership to Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce through a partnership with TD Bank.
This is the third year the chamber and TD Bank held the contest during the month of May as part of celebrations for National Small Business Week and continues the chamber’s efforts to support and engage minorities in business in the Myrtle Beach area.
TD Bank is sponsoring the cost of one year’s dues for five businesses owned by people from a marginalized or underrepresented demographic. The winning businesses and their employees have full access to all benefits of chamber membership including a listing in the business directory, free job listings on our Job Board, discounts through our money-saving programs and invitations to networking events and education classes.
The winning businesses, who were drawn at random, are: Smokin Wit Grace Cigars LLC, Hannah’s Nails, Hug a Mug Café, Out of the Ark Educational Animal Shows, and Rices Powerwash.
“TD Bank is committed to helping create a more inclusive future for those who live and work in the communities we serve, and we understand how important small businesses are to our local and national economy,” said Ryan Spagnolo, relationship manager for TD Bank. “We are proud to collaborate with the chamber and provide this opportunity to these five minority-owned businesses in the greater Grand Strand. We look forward to seeing the continued success of the local businesses and supporting them as they grow.”
Of the business owners who applied, 31 qualified and five were selected at random on June 4, and notified no later than June 15. The MBACC board of directors finalized their membership on June 27.
Qualifications for the contest required the business be 51 percent or more owned by a minority, marginalized or underrepresented demographic such as: Black or African American, Hispanic, Native American, Asian-Pacific, Subcontinent Asian, woman, veteran, LGBTQ, or disabled person. In addition, the business must be located in Horry or Georgetown counties, legally operating for at least one month and cannot be current investors with the chamber.
LEARN MORE ABOUT THE WINNERS
Smokin wit Grace Cigars llc is an African American family-owned business operating in all of Horry County and surrounding areas. The Mobile Cigar Lounge brings the cigars to you, without the mess and stress. The service provides a lounge with a built-in humidor, providing a luxurious retreat at your own private event or wedding!
Hannah’s Nails is an Asian owned nail business that provides services for everything nails. They are experts and can provide everything ranging from simple manicures and pedicures to polygel sets and fills. You can make an appointment online, and find them located at 4773 Dick Pond Rd, Myrtle Beach.
Hug a Mug Café is a coffee shop that is located at 1626 Highway 17 S., North Myrtle Beach, while also providing service at local markets. The café offers drinks from coffee and tea to smoothies, and wraps and desserts to snack on! There is space for local artists to showcase their work as well! Hug a Mug Café also has a truck that travels to local markets! As an LGBTQ+ owned business everyone is welcomed here!
Out of the Ark Educational Animal Shows provides a fun experience while also being educational. It is a LGBTQ+ and veteran owned company that wants to ensure safety with this hands-on interactive presentation of wildlife. From school events, birthday parties, or craft events, and everything in between, the Out of the Ark Educational Animal Shows will bring the animals to you!
Rices Powerwash is owned by Paul Rice, who provides power washing services for what is needed! Services are available for individuals in both commercial and residential housing.