Today, SBA’s Lower Rio Grande Valley District honored the 2020 District Small Business Week awardees for six small business categories. The virtual ceremony is part of National Small Business Week going on now through Sept. 24.

Michelle and Danny Quiroz of Reserva Coffee Roasters were named the district’s Small Business Persons of the Year. Both previously had successful careers working for large companies. However, Michelle’s passion for coffee drove their hand-crafted coffee business to a new level. Within three years, their commitment to quality and vision grew their business from then one employee to now 10.

“We are honored to be recognized among millions of small businesses throughout the country,” Michelle Quiroz said. “We hope to set a strong example in the power of a dream and the impact small businesses have in elevating their communities.”

The Quirozes are LiftFund clients since 2017. Their award nomination comes from LiftFund Business Development Officer Marlene Rodriguez. Through a partnership between LiftFund and the City of McAllen, the Quirozes obtained an SBA Community Advantage guarantee loan. The zero-percent interest loan aided in accomplishing their dream of opening a specialty coffee shop.

“Supporting small business is more than just capital, it’s creating jobs, building a community and supporting a local leader who is helping the Valley thrive,” Rodriguez stated.

Other 2020 District Director awards include:

• Snowbite of Pharr – Minority Owned Small Business of the Year
• Gorditas Doña Tota of McAllen – Women Owned Small Business of the Year
• Tucker’s Barbecue of Raymondville – Rural Owned Small Business of the Year
• Shield Services Group Corp. of Corpus Christi – Home Based Business of the Year
• 5×5 Brewing Company of Mission – Veteran Owned Small Business of the Year