Guglielmo, Whitaker receive 2024 Business Person of the Year Awards 

The Small Business Council, a Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce affiliate, announced Paul Guglielmo, CEO of Craft Cannery, and Alex Whitaker, CEO of Tri Tower Telecom Corp., as the winners of the 41st annual Business Person of the Year Awards.  

The awards were presented at a ceremony at the Hyatt Regency Rochester on Wednesday. 

The Business Person of the Year Award, first awarded in 1983, recognizes for-profit business leaders in Greater Rochester who have demonstrated outstanding success, growth, leadership and service in both civic and professional areas. 

Guglielmo received the award in the “Under 25 Employees” category. His business, Craft Cannery, has become a go-to for businesses seeking top-quality bottling services dedicated to helping aspiring entrepreneurs by providing an affordable entry point and minimizing start-up challenges. 

Beyond his business ventures, Guglielmo contributes to the community, working with non-profits including Rochester Rotary, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Greater Rochester, Rochester Broadway Theater League and St. Ann’s Foundation. 

Whitaker was presented the award in the “25 or More Employees” category. He is the co-founder and CEO of Tri Tower Telecom, a nationally recognized network hardware provider specializing in supply chain continuity and customized asset recovery services.

Since co-founding the company in 2009, Tri Tower Telecom has achieved multiple recognitions from the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce Top 100, as well as America’s Inc 5000. His commitment to community service is reflected in his volunteer work with the Al Sigl Community of Agencies, RIT and the city of Rochester’s Talented Tenth Program. 

Small Business Council President Steve Hogan, congratulated Guglielmo and Whitaker, along with all the finalists.  

“Your achievements have inspired us all, and your contributions to Greater Rochester make our community a better place,” he said.  

Added Bob Duffy, chamber president and CEO, “Small businesses are the lifeblood of our local economy, driving job creation, innovation and the distinctive character of our region. The Business Person of the Year Awards honor those who have made significant impacts on our business community, serving as an inspiration to many.” 

Through its SBC Cares initiative, the SBC also presented Community Partnership Award grants to KIVA Rochester, RIT Center for Urban Entrepreneurship and the Urban League of Rochester.  

Each organization received an $8,000 donation to support its mission and help empower additional entrepreneurs and business leaders in Greater Rochester.  

Additionally, the Small Business Council presented its first Rookie of the Year Award to Susan Reuter, owner of Flight Wine Bar, in recognition of her rapid growth in our business community in her first two years as owner. 

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