It’s that time of year again!

The Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship is allowing readers to vote for their favorite entrepreneur for the 2023 People’s Choice Entrepreneur of the Year Award, to be presented at the 8th Annual Entrepreneur Awards.

The winner will be recognized, along with other award categories, on Feb 24 at 11 a.m. at Stovehouse, 3414 Governors Drive S.W. in Huntsville.

The awards honor the skill, courage, and determination it takes for entrepreneurs to create a business out of an idea.

Scroll through the nominees below to meet all the candidates. You can vote for them in a poll here. The voting will close on Monday, Feb. 6 at 11:59 p.m.

Nicole Adams

Stuffed Animal Clinic of Madison, LLC

3 years in business

I do what I do out of love and support for people all over the world. Sometimes we forget how important or comforting that teddy bear was as a child. Many people go through traumatic events that make that teddy bear or baby blanket, that much more necessary for someone’s emotional health.

Jenny Askins

Destination Huntsville

1 year in business

The business I built aligns with my core values: community and connecting others. If I didn’t believe in it, I couldn’t do it. What motivates me is that I genuinely believe Huntsville is the best city to live in, and I knew that before the headline. It’s my passion to help others realize it.

Sonya Bailor

Bailor Group LLC

3.5 years in business

Sonya Bailor, CEO of Bailor Group LLC gets to make historical impact on small to large brands alike, helping with business scalability internally, and scaling businesses externally. Excited about going into year four of running the management and marketing consultancy, which brings greater growth to Bailor Group and its clients.

Jessica Fortune Barker

AL Association for the Arts

4 years in business

I do what I do because I believe wholeheartedly that only I can do it… that’s why I was called to it! I am motivated each day that I open my eyes. It means there is something specific that only I could get done for the day!

Lindsey Barron

Rocket City Mom

13 years in business

As a previous employee, I always needed to ask permission. Rocket City Mom allows me the opportunity to say “yes” and give back when an organization, family, or child in need.

Spencer Batchelor

Greater Huntsville Humane Society

54 years in business

I feel honored to have found my purpose in life, helping animals and people. The Greater Huntsville Humane Society has given me so much and I’m blessed to be serving the greater Huntsville area. I want to continue saving lives, expand programs, and support our community. I promise to always be a voice for those who do not have one!

Kerry Battle

Pest King LLC

1 year in business

Our family, along with our desire to create generational wealth and leave a financial stability for the next generation, is important to us! So our mindset in accomplishing this is by FAITH, and the second is we never give up!

Linda Blue

Linda Blue Real Estate, LLC

1 year in business

I didn’t do well in grade school and was told by several teachers that I was a slow learner and needed to be placed with children who had LD. This followed me the rest of my life. I grew up feeling unsmart, unpretty, Un special, I dropped out of high school because I’d fallen so far behind that it would be impossible to catch up. I decided to study for the GED. After several attempts and many years later (1992-2001) I finally received my GED and decided to cap & gown walk with an adult graduating class. This was one of the proudest moments for me. Little did I know my life would be forever changed after that. Fast forward to 2016, when I started Real estate school, received my license, worked a full-time job and was a part time realtor for several years. Then I decided I wanted to start my own company. I jumped in and asked tons of questions. I self-educated as much as possible, researched, researched, researched, and one year later, here we are doing well.

Samantha Brinkley

Rocket City HR Consulting

11 years in business

In my journey as an entrepreneur, I have learned about servant leadership and begun to truly understand its meaning and impact. It is through serving others and giving back to our community, that we enrich our own lives and are able to grow as human beings.

Kimberly Byrge

Ohio Technology Clearinghouse, Inc. (OTC)

20 years in business

I’ve had a passion for connecting with people for as long as I can remember. COVID changed the landscape of how business is done. Now I am changing the landscape of how my company, OTC, does business. As CEO, embracing change drives me today as it will into the future.

Danielle Caudle

Fleur de Lis Farm TN

1 ½ years in business

I have spent many years behind a desk, and farming, to feed my family. I feel a true passion and drive to educate others, from our farm, in how to feed their families, grow closer as a family unit and make responsible choices.

Jeremy Conway

MAD Security

12 years in business

As an entrepreneur, I would like to manifest my company’s mission to serve over 2,000 clients by simplifying their cybersecurity challenges, enabling them to focus on what they do best. In turn, this success will allow my company to generate a profitability value that generously rewards our team members, to change their lives by focusing on delivering the most value to our clients.

Veronica Cram

InSight Strategic Solutions

2 years in business

I decided to begin my entrepreneurial journey and start my business, Insight Strategic Solutions, to show my daughter that women truly can be mothers while also achieving success in the business world. I work with small business owners to help bring their company’s financial picture into focus. I use financial data to help owners set and achieve goals, make sure cash flow is healthy, and make educated decisions on company growth. I am honored to be able to assist this community’s business leaders as they work to grow and sustain Huntsville’s vibrant small business community.

Erica DeSpain

All Things Madison

3 years in business

My entrepreneur journey is powered by the opportunity to connect local businesses with customers who are within close proximity. I believe that when you love where you live, your everyday life is just a little bit brighter, and I strive to help others understand and fall in love with Madison, Alabama.

Abbe Diaz

Rafael’s Table

1 year in business

Julia Child is quoted as saying, “Find something you’re passionate about and keep tremendously interested in it.” Food is my passion; it’s my love language; it’s what brings me great joy. And after all, isn’t finding your joy the best reason to do what you do?

Karma Ford

K_boss Artistry

1 year in business

Karma creates artwork, as it’s her way of expressing herself through different variants of art, and wants others to see that like herself, they can use art to express themselves freely without any worries of being judged or criticized by the rest of the world on how the person feels.

Brailynn Granville

The Au some Kid

4 years in business

Brailynn’s journey is powered through her experience living with Autism Spectrum Disorder. She has been brave enough to try new things and challenge herself in order to encourage others to do the same. The best quote that motivates her on this current path is, “Every creation started with an imagination.”

Brittnie Granville

Drafted Talent Consulting

1 year in business

Drafted Talent Consulting offers personal branding and marketing products and services in packages that spotlight each client through a professional digital portfolio. We assist athletes and entertainers in maximizing their exposure through increasing their visibility and creating income generation opportunities.

Joni Green

Five Stones Research Corporation

16 years in business

My entrepreneurial journey began more than 35 years ago and has shown me more about myself each step of the way. I am proud to be the owner and CEO of Five Stones Research Corporation and receive great satisfaction from building a great place to work that delivers solutions to the warfighter in the field. Being a repetitive entrepreneur has helped me grow personally and professionally. In addition, I have a desire to give back, and established an entrepreneurial application for the iPhone platform to assist other entrepreneurs with organizing and launching their own entrepreneurial dreams called iSBA. It is extremely fulfilling to lead and be a part of my Five Stones Research family.

Lisa Grice

Forever Grateful, LLC

4 months in business

Our mission and motivation to keep going is to serve food and Lagniappe (a little something extra) that will excite the palate and soothe the souls of our community. I’m empowered and commissioned to genuinely love people. My heart’s desire is to be the hands and feet of JESUS.

Arielle Harley

Southern Throne Boutique

3 years in business

I want to dress every woman that’s ever felt discouraged walking into a boutique. I want to fill the space for every midsize woman that can’t find her size. I want to be light for women to overcoming the darkness of the quiet discrimination in women’s fashion.

Jonathan Haynes

Jonathan Haynes Ministries, LLC

4 years in business

For me as an entrepreneur, my goal is to help as many people as I can be successful and give them the tools and knowledge to become who they want to become in life.

April Hogan

A Rich Innovations LL

14 years in business

I do what I do as an entrepreneur because I know how it feels to want to succeed and not quite know how to get there. To need that extra push and additional knowledge to help me to keep going even when it gets hard. So it is my purpose and passion to provide that to other people.

Ashley Hunt-Poole

Mocktails for Mommy

2 years in business

Made with no artificial color or flavoring, refreshing and irresistible, this is what comes to mind when you take a sip of Mocktails for Mommy. Hello, my name is Ashley Hunt-Poole, CEO of Mocktails for Mommy, a beverage company that provides the best Mocktail drinks around town. Mocktails for Mommy was created during the pandemic to provide a safe and more health-conscious way to enjoy a cocktail but without the harsh effects of alcohol, especially for pregnant and breastfeeding moms. Mocktails for Mommy has made its way to the hearts of many here in Alabama, but it’s time to take Mocktails for Mommy to the next level, becoming a household name. Mocktails for Mommy is not just a business. Still, it is tied to the community and giving back, having a nonprofit component called Mommy & Me Organization, providing scholarships and resources to low-income families. Every time someone purchases a drink from Mocktails for Mommy, they support their community. Everyone should be able to enjoy Mocktails for Mommy.

Alison Kling

Free 2 Teach

11 years in business

I love to empower teachers, support kids and spread joy in our public schools. I am so honored to carry this idea forward and serve as an innovator and catalyst for our community to rally around teachers and students by providing them with free supplies and resources.

Carlee Koehler

The Event Planner

4 years in business

Few things are as fulfilling as helping make one of the most memorable days in a person’s life go exactly as they dreamed it would. Few things as rewarding as taking that risk, betting on yourself and succeeding. This is why I do what I do and love it.

Ashley Lawhorn

KUHRIZMUH LLC

7 years in business

My journey in entrepreneurship helped me grow personally and professionally. I had to overcome self doubt and low confidence in myself and brand. Kuhrizmuh deserves an owner who remembers what the vision is, and our clientele deserves an experience that shows the boldness, authenticity and confidence that builds their trust with what our brand has to offer.

Nikia Lightfoot

Vujee Vegan

2 years in business

My vision is to be the Gold Standard in vegan comfort food. My motivation is empowered by the example I wish to set for girls who dream of being a philanthropic, inspired, dynamic, entrepreneurial woman who overcomes obstacles and celebrates living in their purpose!

Jennifer Linton

WEDC Foundation

25 years in business

As the first female in my family to achieve a college degree, I understand the importance of harnessing the power and opportunities higher education brings. Through the WEDC Foundation, the value of connection and positive influence our women receive, alongside their degree, empowers their future and the generations to come.

Adyre Mason

The Veggie

5 years in business

My entrepreneurial journey has been powered by loss but empowered through creating out of that pain. Losing my mother was the worst thing that could happen to me, but the biggest motivator to keep going, build a legacy inspired by her life, and craft a new future. In a few short years I’ve been able to grow a small, untraditional southern business out of my home into the state’s largest vegan restaurant. I did it without investors, employees, and a lot of traditional resources before taking the leap to leave my career and start my business. But because I was powered by something bigger than me, and a desire to keep living despite the pain of my loss, I was able to outwork my situation. I am proof that you can overcome any obstacle- loss, finances, doubt, and lack- and still come out on top!

LaTracey McDonald

Black Authors Rock

8 years in business

I created exactly what we needed! We needed ways to preserve through our pain to purpose while profiting from it! This is why this global movement can’t be constricted but celebrated amongst all people!

Deborah McGee

PZI International

9 years in business

My passion is helping organizations and their employees achieve their best – because this results in professional and personal successes, including employee satisfaction and retention. An important part of this is increasing the prominence of women and military voices in business, by empowering them through training, employment and mentorship.

Therisa Means

Happy Pup And Play LLC

2 years in business

It’s my personal mission to ensure that everything I do reflects Christ’s love through serving others and providing life-changing experiences. Happy Pup And Play allows me to bring that mission into the pet industry and inspire significant bonds within the Pup Community!

Jasmyne Moss

MCR Consultants LLC

2 years in business

I do what I do as an entrepreneur because it brings me pure happiness! Being able to help many people in a special way means the world to me. I have the freedom of being my own boss and I get to grow a business that I am passionate about!

Essence Nesbit

Designs by Essence

5 years in business

I love being an entrepreneur because it gives me the flexibility to do “all the things.” I love decorating and seeing all the faces light up when they see the finished product. The feeling of helping families celebrate each other’s accomplishments with balloons is amazing!

Lisa Nicholas

Suits Me

1 year in business

Owning a retail store is more than a building with things for sale. It is an experience provided to each person that enters. While they are in your establishment, you need to show confidence that you have their best interest in mind, so that when they leave, they will have a pep in their step and feel good about themselves. I ask God each morning to show me who, and to show me how, because when I give, I am blessed. The purpose of life is to have a life with purpose.

Donna Oti

Communication and Culture, LLC

1 year in business

People are organizations’ most valuable assets. I help organizations effectively value people. Many organizational challenges stem from miscommunication, misaligned values, and conflicting priorities. Organizational development consultants are often best positioned to objectively offer data-driven solutions to organizational challenges. I enjoy putting theory into action to help organizations improve results.

Venus Quates

LaunchTech, LLC

7 years in business

My motivation is to continue producing outcomes that help our community and customers positively impact our world and beyond. To grow a company that continues to enhance the lives of our employees and their families. Lastly, on that one great day, to receive my “Well done, good and faithful servant.”

Ashley Ramirez

Mason Dixon Bakery & Bistro

9 years in business

10 years ago, at a local market, a little boy squealed with joy, realizing he could enjoy a bakery made cupcake for the first time. This pure joy and excitement made me realize I had found my purpose: bringing joy through food to those with food allergies and dietary restrictions.

Gina Rivera

Gina’s Balloon Décor

15 years in business

As an entrepreneur, I’m inspired by my mom. She loved interior design and taught me at an early age to love colors and shapes and the different combinations they make. I started applying all that knowledge when I decorated with balloons for my son’s 1st birthday party, and a business grew from there. I quickly realized how balloons offer joy and childlike enthusiasm for all ages.

John Schmitt

Advanced Manufacturing Innovation and Integration Center (AMIIC)

3 years in business

Serving humanity by combining technical expertise, adaptable leadership, and a core creative purpose. We do not sell toasters and we do not partner transactionally. Ever. We work to build strong lasting partnerships and only commit to projects that are impactful to humanity and serve a greater good.

Carla Stiles

DesignedByCarla

20 years in business

With over 20 years of experience in building the DesignedbyCarla organization and the digital marketing industry, I have enjoyed the opportunity to work along with small to mid-sized businesses into productive and successful companies over the years. At DBC, we build branding and marketing collaborations with our clients.

Gabrielle Sweatt

JMB Playtime Rentals

1 year in business

As a mother, my children motivated me to launch JMB Playtime Rentals, which is a mobile party rental company that specializes in soft play, providing a safe place for little ones to play, interact and explore while developing gross motor skills. Playtime can be anywhere if you ” Just Make Believe”

Tony Taylor

TekFive

15 years in business

I continue to enjoy the challenges that come from the strategy and collaboration that is required to ensure a consistent source of income, stability, and opportunity for our TekFive employees. The reward is in opportunity to provide an employee with an opportunity to be part of a team that has no limitations on their success. I also enjoy the competitive nature of the business, that keeps the mind active and engaged.

Maria Troupe

Wine & Design

3 years in business

The fear of failure motivates me!

Tiara Trudeau

Sultry Company

6.5 years in business

The reason I decided to become an entrepreneur in the adult industry was to help others like myself. As I immersed myself into the wellness part of the industry, I knew I wasn’t the only one with questions and looking for a safe place to talk about sexual wellness.

Andy Whitehead

FigBrew

2 years in business

I like to find a solution in plain sight. Roasted fig has been around for hundreds of years and yet it’s not widely used in the beverage industry. It has gained popularity in the food industry recently, but why not a beverage? FigBrew makes a coffee alternative for coffee lovers!

Dina Young

Launch Huntsville

1 year in business

If I can, at the end the day, know I served my family well, and helped at least one other person see their purpose more clearly, it’s been a day well spent!

Kevin Zurmuehlen

L’Etoile Patisserie

1 year in business

L’Etoile Patisserie exists to glorify God by developing and strengthening our community through relationships while providing exceptional service and distinctive, high-quality baked goods.