Henrico EDA Honors Business and Community Leaders at 2026 Excellence in Action Awards

Henrico EDA Honors Business and Community Leaders at 2026 Excellence in Action Awards

HENRICO, VA – The Henrico Economic Development Authority (EDA) hosted its second annual Excellence in Action Awards today at The Westin Richmond, celebrating the local businesses and leaders driving innovation, economic growth, and community impact across Henrico.

Following a competitive public nomination process, the 2026 Excellence in Action Award winners were inducted across five categories:

• Small Business Resilience: Bellrae Marketing – For demonstrating grit, adaptability, and determination to endure and thrive. 
• Economic Impact Award: Hospital to Home – For significantly contributing to economic prosperity in Henrico and the broader region.
• Emerging Leader Award: Corey Divine (The Candidate Source) and Nekia Wiliams (CDIC Driving School) – For rising business professionals or entrepreneurs making a significant impact early in their career.
• The “Extra Mile” Award: Cobb Technologies – For going above and beyond to foster a vibrant, healthy, growing community and contribute to workforce development, environmental sustainability, economic mobility, or community empowerment.
• Resilient Business Leader of the Year: Jyot Singh, RTS Labs – For steady vision, decisive action, and adaptability guiding their organization through challenge and change. 

The EDA also issued special recognition to Henrico’s Legacy Companies, honoring an incredible milestone of operating in the county for 50 years:

• Martin, Dolan & Holton, Ltd.
• OrthoVirginia Henrico Parham
• Ruffin & Payne, Inc.
• Transit Lumber Company, Inc.
• Veolia Water Technologies Treatment Solutions
• Virginia Ear Nose & Throat Associates, P.C.

“From recognizing today’s emerging leaders to the business that have helped shape Henrico’s solid economic foundation, we’re honored to celebrate the innovation and commitment that makes Henrico the Home of The Extra Mile,” said Edward S. Whitlock III, Chair, Henrico EDA Board of Directors.

In addition to the awards presentation, the event featured a comprehensive local economic update from Henrico EDA Executive Director Cari Tretina, as well as a “Resilience in Action” panel discussion. Moderated by Nancy Thomas (InUnison), the panel featured insight from Ester Codina (Alfa Laval), Dennis Hatchett (Feed More), and Mike Lindsey (Lindsey Food Group).

The annual Excellence in Action Awards program ensures representation across Henrico’s vibrant and diverse business landscape. For more information about the Henrico EDA and its business support initiatives, visit www.henrico.com.

About the Henrico EDA

As enduring economic stewards for more than 50 years, the Henrico EDA is your single point of contact for business development and site selection services in Henrico. Our team of experts goes the extra mile in every initiative and interaction to ensure both companies and residents can enjoy the vibrant community that they deserve. The Henrico community is strategically located in the heart of the Eastern Seaboard, adjacent to Virginia’s capital city of Richmond. Learn more about our extensive inventory of commercial and industrial properties ideal for the advanced manufacturing, life sciences, and corporate services sectors when you visit Henrico.com.