ripple effect supports other local businesses and artists by "shopping local" for their supplies and services, creating an economic ripple effect as money circulates within the community

   

innovative newbie a new business or artist that opened in the last three years that excites and inspires you because of a creative new idea, perspective, or solution they are sharing with the world   

greenie our environmental hero, immersed in sustainable practices, such as creating or selling new items from used materials, using energy efficient appliances, composting, reducing usage of toxic products, or reducing waste   

socially-responsible rockstar 

the socially-responsible rockstar incorporates positive social change into their mission, operations, or measures of success.  They help people who are in need, and are helping to create a better world where people are no longer in need. They may do this through their products and services, their operations and employee practices, by giving back to communities through time or money, or a million other ways!