Amarillo is a city full of heart and innovation, and that can’t be shown any clearer than through our local small businesses and their success. From family-owned operations to high-tech startups, these enterprises embody the entrepreneurial spirit in Amarillo, fueled by grit, community support, and opportunity.
At the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation (AEDC), we know that small businesses are the lifeblood of our city, and we take pride in helping them grow. One of the key ways we do that is by supporting initiatives like the Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge, in addition to working with business development partners throughout the Texas Panhandle.
Here are just a few success stories that show why Amarillo is an excellent place to start and grow a small business.
Helping Entrepreneurs Build a Strong Foundation: The Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge
The Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge is one of our city’s most impactful small business competitions. Funded by the AEDC and hosted by the WT Enterprise Center, this annual challenge provides awardees with capital awards, mentorship, and a five-year strategic business plan.
With guidance from the Small Business Development Center (SBDC), applicants receive coaching and feedback throughout the process, making this initiative just as much about long-term sustainability as it is about startup support.
Recent Winners: 2023–2025
To learn more about the EnterPrize Challenge awardees, visit the WT Enterprise Center’s website or Facebook!
Creek House Honey Farm
In 2023, Creek House Honey Farm was awarded $100,000 from the Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge. What started as a small beekeeping operation has grown into a full agritourism destination with manufacturing capabilities, a café, and spa products. Their ability to scale while staying rooted in local values reflects the strength of Amarillo’s rural business community.
Hi-Plains Civil Engineering
Hi-Plains Civil Engineering is a locally owned firm specializing in civil infrastructure design, planning, and consulting services. Their strong commitment to growth and community development earned them one of the top awards in the 2023–24 Amarillo EnterPrize Challenge.
Slicks Fabworks
Slicks Fabworks designs and builds wood-burning outdoor stoves and grills. Their creative solutions to metalwork and design helped them secure funding in the 2023-24 competition, which will be used to purchase a laser-cutting machine to increase efficiency.
Amarillo Legacy Monument Co.
This local monument company preserves the legacy of families and loved ones through custom-crafted headstones and memorials. Amarillo Legacy Monument Co. is the only local monument company to do their work in-house, ensuring that each family receives a thoughtfully designed product. Their win in the EnterPrize Challenge supported their plans for growth and enhanced production capabilities.
FireFit
A 2024–25 winner, FireFit is a unique fitness concept inspired by firefighter training methods. The business promotes strength and resilience while offering Amarillo a fresh approach to group fitness and wellness.
Free Cheese Prints
Free Cheese Prints is a creative print shop with strong Amarillo roots, offering high-quality custom apparel, posters, and merchandise. Their artistic approach and growing local demand helped them stand out in the 2024–25 competition.
Panhandle Prosthetics & Orthotics
Dedicated to restoring mobility and quality of life, Panhandle Prosthetics & Orthotics serves patients across the Texas Panhandle. Their win supports expanded services and advanced technology for custom prosthetic and orthotic solutions.
Other Local Success Stories
Outside of the EnterPrize Challenge, many other local businesses in Amarillo are thriving thanks to steady demand, local partnerships, and a business-friendly environment.
ProLift Garage Doors
With support from the SBDC, ProLift Garage Doors expanded its operations in Amarillo by focusing on exceptional service, local trust, and community service. They’re a great example of a home services brand finding long-term success by staying community focused.
West Texas Golf Lounge
West Texas Golf Lounge brought something new to the Amarillo market: an indoor golf simulator experience. It now serves a range of customers from casual players to corporate groups, showing how innovation in recreation can be both fun and profitable.
Supporting Local Businesses in Amarillo
Whether it’s access to funding, expert mentorship, or a supportive customer base, small business owners in Amarillo benefit from a unique ecosystem that wants them to succeed. Organizations like the AEDC, WT Enterprise Center, SBDC, and local chambers of commerce are all invested in creating opportunities for entrepreneurs.
If you’re thinking about starting or expanding a small business in Amarillo, there’s never been a better time. From incentive programs to community support, Amarillo provides the resources you need to turn your ideas into reality.
Ready to Grow Your Business in Amarillo?
At the Amarillo Economic Development Corporation, we’re here to support the entrepreneurs who keep our economy strong and our city growing. Whether you’re seeking funding, looking for a space, or need help developing a business plan, our team can help you take the next step.
Contact us today to learn how we can help your small business succeed in Amarillo.
