HCN News & Notes

UMassFive Announces Winners of Small Business Spotlight Contest

HADLEY — UMassFive College Federal Credit Union announced Sexton Roofing & Siding as the grand prize winner of its inaugural Small Business Spotlight contest. Driven by community nomination, the contest winner was formally announced at the final UMass football home game of the season at McGuirk Alumni Stadium on Nov. 30, which was also Small Business Saturday.

Sexton Roofing & Siding will be receiving an advertising package valued at $10,000 with UMass Athletics, allowing the business to be featured on digital displays, radio reads, and email blasts, as well as with tabling opportunities at the Mullins Center during UMass basketball and hockey home games for the remainder of the season.

The Small Business Spotlight contest drew more than 125 nominations from across Western Mass., highlighting businesses that demonstrate service, innovation, and community involvement. Two secondary winners, K’s Nutrition of Amherst and CLINIC Alternative Medicines of Northampton, were also recognized with $500 cash prizes to support their ongoing efforts in the local community.

This contest highlights the partnership between UMassFive, UMass Athletics, and UMass Sports Properties, UMass Athletics’ official multi-media rights holder, and their mutual efforts to uplift small businesses and deepen ties within the community, while celebrating small businesses that make a difference.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our community, and we’re honored to spotlight the incredible work they do every day,” said Craig Boivin, the credit union’s vice president of Marketing. “At UMassFive, we believe in investing in businesses that not only provide valuable products and services, but also give back and inspire others. This contest is our way of celebrating their impact and helping them grow.”

Ryan Bamford, director of Athletics at UMass, added that “UMass Athletics is proud to partner with UMassFive in this initiative to support and promote small businesses. Small businesses are vital to the vibrancy of our community, and we’re excited to provide this platform to amplify their voices and contributions to our fans and alumni.”

Sexton Roofing & Siding, a locally and family-owned residential and commercial roofing and siding contractor, expressed gratitude for the opportunity.

“This recognition means the world to us,” said Sasha Wilde, co-owner of Sexton Roofing & Siding. “Being featured at UMass Athletics home games is an incredible opportunity to introduce our business to a wider audience and share our passion with the community. This exposure will help us grow and continue making a difference.”