By seeking success on their own terms, our 2008 nominees share a common goal.



Now in its 13th year, our annual Small Business Awards highlight companies or entrepreneurs that are exceeding, excelling, and enlightening the free enterprise space. The winners will be announced at the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference + Expo, hosted by General Motors, May 14-17, in Charlotte, North Carolina, and will be featured in an upcoming issue of BE.



EMERGING COMPANY OF THE YEAR NOMINEES

This award recognizes businesses that have poised themselves for growth by carving out a special niche or by adopting creative marketing techniques.



SUNDIAL GROUP

Type of Business: Fragrance and body products

CEO/Founder: Richelieu Dennis

President/COO: Nyema Tubman

Partner/Chief Branding Officer: Emmet Dennis

Location: Amityville, NY

www.sundialbrands.com



With more than 50 employees, Richelieu Dennis, Nyema Tubman, and Emmet Dennis have transformed Sundial into the go-to source for culturally authentic organic skin and haircare products, which they create, manufacture, and distribute. With more than 16 years in business, the $10 million enterprise sports a client list that includes some of the biggest names in retail such as Macy's, J.C. Penney, and Target.



In 2000, they opened their flagship store, Nubian Heritage, in Brooklyn, New York, and later opened a second location in Harlem. Sundial also owns a 50,000-square-foot manufacturing facility in Amityville, New York. Remembering their African roots, the entrepreneurs purchase raw materials directly from women cooperatives and farmers in Africa.