Jacksonville State University’s Ken Grissom Honored as Small Business Advocate of the Year

Jacksonville, AL – Ken Grissom, Director of the Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Jacksonville State University (Jax State), has been named the Small Business Advocate of the Year by the Calhoun County Area Chamber and Visitors Center. Grissom received the prestigious award on June 6 at the organization’s annual Small Business Awards, held at the Longleaf Botanical Gardens.

The Small Business Advocate of the Year Award celebrates individuals or groups that provide exceptional assistance and support to businesses and entrepreneurs, promoting their success and growth within the community. Grissom’s recognition is a testament to his dedication and impactful work through the SBDC at Jax State.

Under Grissom’s leadership, the SBDC offers critical advisory services to small businesses, covering areas such as legal start-up procedures, market research, business planning, and capital access. In 2023 alone, the center facilitated the creation of 27 new businesses, established 113 jobs, and generated $4.1 million in capital within its service region.

In his acceptance speech, Grissom expressed gratitude for the support from Jacksonville State University. “The center is appreciative of the support and infrastructure from Jax State that places us in opportunities to help people reach their goals,” he said. “The center is able to promote all things Jax State throughout its 10-county region. We truly do strive to help people each and every day. We are blessed and have a great support system at Jax State, and for that I’m thankful.”

Grissom joined the Jax State team in 2011, bringing a wealth of experience from his extensive background in the restaurant industry and commercial development. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and a Master’s in Business Administration from Jax State. His expertise has been recognized statewide; in 2012, the Alabama Small Business Development Center (ASBDC) acknowledged him for assisting in the creation of the most businesses in the state, and in 2013, he was awarded the ASBDC State Star for his significant contributions to the small business community.

In addition to his role at the SBDC, Grissom is a VA-certified CVE Verification Counselor, Alabama SBDC Network Certified Business Advisor, and a Certified Procurement and Technical Assistance Counselor. He is also a charter member and president of the Board of Directors for the Calhoun County Sports Hall of Fame, a former team captain for Relay for Life, and currently serves on the Piedmont Historical Society Board of Directors.

Ken Grissom resides in Jacksonville with his wife, Julia. The couple, married for 41 years, has a family of nine, including two sons, two daughters-in-law, and three grandsons. Grissom’s award highlights his enduring commitment to supporting small businesses and fostering community growth through his work at Jax State.

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