Hawai‘i State Senator Russell Ruderman has been named the Business Person of the Year by the U.S. Small Business Association’s (SBA) Hawai‘i chapter.
Ruderman said, “I’m truly humbled by this honor. I feel lucky to be able to combine my passion to support local people and local produce with my love for business and entrepreneurship.”
Ruderman is the president and founder of Island Naturals, a chain of health food stores on the Big Island. The company was first established in 1997 and now employs 150 people at three locations in Kona, Hilo, and Pahoa.
The SBA’s award serves to recognize the impact made by outstanding entrepreneurs and small business owners. The awardee is selected by a panel of judges and determined according to criteria such as the business’ growth in employees and sales, as well as products and services offered to the community.
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