December 02, 2024
Award Photo

The Columbia Chamber is pleased to announce AINautics as the Small Business of the Year Award winner.

The Small Business of the Year Award, sponsored by Carolina Conditions, honors a Chamber Partner with less than 50 employees who has demonstrated notable achievements, economic and cultural growth, and outstanding contributions to the Midlands business community. 

"Carolina Conditions was honored to sponsor and present the Small Business of the Year Award at the Columbia Chamber of Commerce event,” said Nick Picariello, Business Development Manager of Carolina Conditions. “Recognizing and supporting the success of local businesses aligns with our commitment to strengthening our community. Congratulations to AINautics on winning the award this year!”

AINautics is a drone training and technology leader, offering unparalleled education and support to individuals and businesses in Columbia, SC. Their expert instructors, state-of-the-art facilities, and client-centric approach make them the go-to choice for anyone looking to excel in the drone industry. 

Deeply rooted in the Columbia community, AINautics actively participates in local events and educational initiatives. By partnering with schools, universities, and regional organizations, AINautics promotes the growth of drone technology and inspires the next generation of drone pilots.

“Our relationship with the Chamber has been instrumental in supporting our growth and success,” said Chris Williams, Co-Founder. “Their dedication to fostering small businesses and innovation has helped AINautics expand its reach and impact, particularly in education and workforce development within the aeronautics industry. We are honored to receive this recognition and look forward to continuing our collaborative efforts to empower the next generation of aeronautics professionals.”

Past Small Business of the Year winners include Sun Solutions, Modern Exterminating, Pendleton Street Business Advisors, Garvin Design Group, Grace Outdoor Advertising, COLAtoday, K2 Tech, South Carolina Community Bank, Gardener Publications, and Colonial Printing. 

“Small businesses make up over 99% of the business community in South Carolina,” said Carl Blackstone, Columbia Chamber President and CEO. “We are proud to honor and celebrate AINautics for all of their contributions to the small business community, as they continue to offer innovative technology for our region.”

To become a Partner or learn more about the Chamber visit www.ColumbiaChamber.com. For more information about AINautics, visit www.ainautics.com and take the first step toward mastering drone technology.

About Columbia Chamber
The Columbia Chamber is a private, nonprofit, Partner-driven organization comprised of 1,200 business enterprises, civic organizations, educational institutions and individuals in Calhoun, Fairfield, Kershaw, Lexington, Newberry and Richland counties. The Columbia Chamber serves as the voice of its Partners and the business community at large on matters of economic, educational, social, cultural and political concern, as well as supports and promotes the success of its Partners through networking, professional development, advocacy, and leadership. The organization has represented the interests of the local business community since 1902.