Fort Worth, Texas (November 8, 2023)

In a remarkable achievement, Ampersand Coffee, one of the Fort Worth Chamber's Small Business of the Year winners for 2023, seized a unique opportunity to pitch their business at The Chase for Business: Make Your Move Summit. This prestigious event, which stands as one of the largest gatherings for small business owners in Texas, unfolded from November 1 to November 3 in Frisco.

The summit served as a convergence point for visionary entrepreneurs, thought leaders, industry experts, and renowned celebrities, all aimed at inspiring and fostering continuous learning. Its tailored programming was designed to equip entrepreneurs with the tools they need to tackle the challenges inherent in their endeavors.

Notable guest speakers included luminaries such as Jamie Dimon, Chairman and CEO of JPMorgan Chase, alongside household names like Matthew McConaughey, Mark Cuban, Jay Shetty, Emmitt Smith, Sheryl Swoopes, and more. These illustrious figures generously shared their insights, covering a wide spectrum of topics. These ranged from the art of crafting the perfect business pitch to emphasizing the pivotal role of exceptional customer service, as well as navigating the treacherous waters of entrepreneurship with unwavering resilience.

Toan Luong, Owner/Principal of Ampersand, and recipient of the Fort Worth Chamber's Small Business of the Year Award, seized the opportunity to present his business during the summit. His participation culminated in securing two promising leads, further solidifying Ampersand's position as a thriving local business.

"Participating in the conference and pitching to a Shark was definitely one of the most exhilarating and terrifying experiences we've had in a long time. With that being said, we are ever so grateful for the opportunity to not only represent our team, but the city of Fort Worth & the chamber as a whole." said Luong.

"It is great to see Ampersand’s success and engagement in the community," said Mike Coffey, President of Imperative Information Group and one of the Chamber's Small Business of the Year judges. "Interviewing all the finalists for Small Business of the Year meant that we met with a diverse group of business leaders who demonstrated the entrepreneurial grit necessary to build successful teams and serve their customers and communities. Heading up the final judging effort for the award has left me proud to be a Fort Worth business owner."

This success story embodies the core mission of the Fort Worth Chamber—to foster the growth and development of local businesses. Ampersand's remarkable journey following their recognition as the Small Business of the Year serves as a shining testament to the importance of nurturing a vibrant and dynamic local business ecosystem right here in Fort Worth.