St. George residents honored as Utah Small Business Persons of the Year

St. George residents honored as Utah Small Business Persons of the Year

Recently recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration for their contributions to the local economy, Design to Print Owners Stefanie and Joshua Bevans were named the 2017 Utah Small Business Persons of the Year. The Bevans were honored May 1 by the Small Business Administration at the U.S. Capitol as part of the celebration of National Small Business Week, which is held the first week of May each year. Vice President Mike Pence, SBA Administrator Linda McMahon and White House adviser Ivanka Trump were among those present to celebrate the accomplishments of the Bevans and other small business owners. “It is my honor and distinct pleasure to announce the 54 winners from across the U.S. and its territories,” McMahon said. “These small business owners define entrepreneurial spirit and best represent the 28 million small businesses that are the backbone and economic engine for today’s economy.” Nominated for the honor by St. George Small Business Development Center Director Lennart Erickson, the Bevans work closely with the center, which is located on the Dixie State University campus, and are the first business owners from southern Utah to earn the statewide award. Design to Print was the first company to bring large format, high-resolution color printing to Utah, where they produce large-scale billboards, banners and vehicle wraps as well as fine art reproductions. Started as a one-man shop in a small 15-foot by 15-foot room in 1995, Design to Print joined forces with Steamroller Copies, which Josh Bevans established in 1992. Stefanie Bevans became co-owner of the family businesses when she and Josh married in 1997. Now, as chief executive officer, Stefanie Bevans is responsible for domestic and international business relations and oversees all business development, marketing, productions, human relations and administrative affairs. Josh Bevans, the business’ chief technology officer, keeps the company’s technology humming, up to the minute and relevant. The business operates out of 40,000 square feet of office and production space, has increased its locations to multiple states and expanded services and products to also serve wholesale customers. The St. George Small Business Development Center plays a key role in the economic growth of Southern Utah by helping small businesses reach their goals of expansion, innovation, productivity and management improvement. The center develops network partnerships that have led to an increase in clients and client relationships, effective business content and leadership counseling practices. Visit http://www.sbdcstgeorge.com to learn more about the St. George Small Business Development Center.