Wade Rose of Dignity Health kicks off the Ebbies ceremony. (Photo Credit: San Francisco Chamber of Commerce)
San Francisco is celebrating some successes right now.
We start off with big congratulations to the San Francisco Giants crowned the World Series Champions for the second time in three years. A win for Giants fans but a big win for the local and regional economies as the area raked in between $18 million and $40 million in benefits from visitor spending.
While the Giants were hard at work earning their second title, the San Francisco Chamber of Commerce was just as busy honoring the industries and businesses that help contribute to the city’s economic vitality at the 21st annual Excellence in Business Awards, AKA, the “Ebbies.”
“San Francisco is fortunate to have a booming tech industry that now boasts more than 1,850 companies,” said San Francisco Chamber of Commerce president & CEO Steve Falk. “But a healthy economy also depends on a diverse economy that includes a wide range of industries and businesses employing workers of all backgrounds, professions and skill levels. It’s important to recognize their contributions to the economy.”
The Bay Area has been a leader in the state during this economic recovery. In September, the city’s unemployment rate was 6.9 percent, down from 9.6 percent in January of last year.
The chamber honored eight businesses for their help in reviving the economy.
“This year’s award recipients exemplify the leadership and dedication of so many of our local businesses,” said Falk.
The highest and most prestigious award went to BlackRock for its “tremendous growth and success.”
Other awardees include:
- The Exploratorium for its soon to be opened waterfront location
- Central Market Partnership
- GoPago, Gumas Advertisting and One Kings Lane
- DaVita Rx
- Recology
“Economic success cannot be measured by a single sector or industry,” said Falk. “The winners are the collective engine fueling our economy and keeping our city strong.”
In fact, the Bay Area’s private sector has more than 400,000 people working and generates more than $1.4 billion in revenues to help fund important city services each year. But those corporations also help with local charities, donating more than $100 million each year.
The Ebbies were created in 1991 by the chamber to honor San Francisco businesses for their vision and innovation.
“The Chamber of Commerce would like to congratulate this year’s award winners and salute San Francisco businesses for their commitment and contributions that are keeping us all giant.”
