Columbia Chamber names Knowledge Perk Small Business of the Year
September 2, 2026
Winner announced at September Gather & Grow event.
The Columbia Chamber announced Knowledge Perk as the Small Business of the Year Award winner.
The Small Business of the Year Award, sponsored by BlueCross BlueShield of South Carolina, 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.
Ashley Abbott, Fatima Elhuni, Sheena Edwards, and Ryan Sanderson, Owner of Knowledge Perk
Knowledge Perk is a coffee company focused on creating elevated coffee experiences that bring people together and strengthen the communities it serves. Through thoughtfully sourced and intentionally roasted coffee, welcoming cafés and a commitment to meaningful local partnerships, Knowledge Perk strives to be more than a place to grab a cup of coffee. The company builds connections by creating gathering spaces for students, families, friends and neighbors while supporting local schools, sports teams, nonprofits and community events. With a focus on quality, connection and community investment, Knowledge Perk is committed to making each day better for its fans and the communities it calls home.
“We are extremely proud to be named the Columbia Chamber, Small Business Partner of the Year! It is a true recognition of our philosophy that we don’t see customers, we see a community of loyal supporters, who choose to visit Knowledge Perk daily,” said Ryan Sanderson, CEO, Knowledge Perk. “It is also an example of the benefits of connecting through the Chamber to form partnerships with the business community and work together on behalf of the greater good. Many beneficial ideas have been generated around the coffee tables at Knowledge Perk, and we are grateful for the support of so many people.”
Past Small Business of the Year winners include Brand Buzz, AINautics, 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 are the backbone of our state’s economy and play an essential role in creating jobs, driving innovation and strengthening our communities,” said Peyton Bryant, 2026-2027 Chair of the Board of Directors of the Columbia Chamber. “We are proud to recognize Knowledge Perk for their entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to their customers and meaningful contributions to the Midlands’ small business community.”
To become a Partner or learn more about the Chamber visit www.ColumbiaChamber.com. For more information about Knowledge Perk, visit www.knowledgeperk.com.
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.
