05/17/2026
National Small Business Week took place May 3rd-9th. Owners Gwen and Larry Collins were honored to win the SBA's Small Business Person(s) of the Year Award for the State of Georgia. They traveled to D.C. during this period and were recognized by the SBA as Georgia's Winner. During this trip, they were awarded 1st Runner-Up for the National Small Business Person of the Year out of 50 States and 2 Territories Guam and Puerto Rico. They also visited the White House where they met President Trump with other Small Business Owners. It is a great feeling when your hard work is recognized. They contribute their success to their Love for each other and the company and the people that are employed with CMC. Collins Manufacturing Company has a fantastic work force that is continuing to grow. Along with their employees, they have a solid customer and supplier base that fosters success.
Gwen and Larry would like to especially thank Lisa Rackley with University of Georgia Small Business Development Center and the U.S. Small Business Administration. Lisa and the SBA have played a large part in the company's success. Lastly, for the past 6 years, Synovus has been a Champion of Collins. For a company to be strong, it must have a banking institution that believes in their vision and that is exactly what Amy Fitzpatrick and her team have done. Gwen and Larry are excited that it found a bank that not only offers financial support but also provide financial planning for future growth.
Gwen and Larry have big plans for the future so be on the lookout. In 2026 alone, they've invested over $2M in equipment with more to come for new workload that will start within the next 3 months. Exciting times for CMC.
