The UPS Store announces Small Biz Challenge 2025 winner and finalists

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The UPS Store is on a mission to uncover the next generation of unstoppable entrepreneurs. That’s why we invited small business owners across the U.S. to compete in the 2025 The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge, in partnership with Inc., the leading resource for entrepreneurs.

What’s at stake? A share of the $35,000 prize pool, not to mention a winning feature in Inc. magazine - talk about bragging rights!

How it works: Applications began in January, with nine lucky semifinalists chosen and paired with mentors for an added boost of motivation and entrepreneurial advice. That support came in handy with applicants competing in challenges that tested their skills in marketing, staffing, operations and company culture.

Three finalists competed in front of a live audience in Austin with television host Shannon LaNier.

🥇 Congratulations to the winner of the 2025 The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge:

🍸 Just Call Me Shirley is redefining the spirits industry with premium, ready-to-drink canned cocktails inspired by the classic Shirley Temple. Founded by sorority sisters Sydney Attis and Mikayla Garcia, this is their second business together. Watch the award announcement here.

🏆 And a round of applause to our finalists:

🪴Wander & Root is a plant shop on wheels that brings rare and beginner-friendly plants to Pittsburgh, PA. Through pop-ups and workshops, founder Amanda Wynkoop turns plant shopping into a fun, community-driven experience.

🍺 Dokkaebier LLC is an award-winning craft brewery blending Korean folklore and Asian flavors to redefine the beer scene. With a taproom in Oakland, CA, a presence in over 900 stores and global ambitions … they’re just getting started. Founder Youngwon Lee brings over a decade of food and beverage experience to his company.

Dive deeper: We know what it takes to run a successful small business. Since its inception in 2019, The UPS Store Small Biz Challenge has been spotlighting the best and brightest small business owners.

"Each year, this competition is an exhilarating and interactive way for us to support and showcase small business owners and entrepreneurs from across the nation," said Michelle Van Slyke, senior vice president of marketing and sales at The UPS Store, Inc.

At UPS, we help businesses succeed – no matter who, where or how big you are.​ Check it out:

• From UPS scholar to The UPS Store owner … and everything in between
• Exporting with UPS helps small businesses compete with big ones
• Small business big growth