Terre Haute,  IN — The U.S. Small Business Administration recently named John Thompson and Paul Thrift as Indiana Small Business Persons of the year for 2007.

“Thompson Thrift exemplifies entrepreneurial spirit at its best,” said Gail Gesell, SBA Indiana District Director.

Beginning in 1986, Thompson and Thrift purchased distressed buildings and homes in need of renovation. Since that time, the two men have successfully grown their business into a full-service real estate development, construction and architecural firm employing 120 people with offices in Terre Haute and Carmel. Thompson Thrift has developed numerous retail projects throughout Indiana and the Midwest. Their portfolio also includes multi-family housing, healthcare, industrial and institutional facilities.

“We’re very honored to be recognized by the Small Business Administration,” Thrift said. “Through the years, we’ve been very fortunate to work with great people. The strong relationships we’ve built with our clients have allowed us to get where we are today and continue to grow.”

The SBA presented Thompson Thrift with their award earlier this month at the Indiana Small Business Week Awards Luncheon at the Ritz Charles in Carmel.

“The small business owners recognized with these awards were selected because of their talent, their drive and their ability to meet challenges,” said Gesell.

As recipients of the state award, Thompson and Thrift represented Indiana at the annual SBA award luncheon in Washington D.C. on April 24 at the Ronald Reagan International Trade Center. Winners from the other 49 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico/Virgin Islands and Guam were also in attendance.

"Each year for the past 44 years, the president has issued a proclamation declaring Small Business Week as a time when America salutes the achievements and contributions of the nation's 25 million small businesses," Gesell said. "To be one of 53 outstanding small businesses nationwide, from among millions, demonstrates just what an honor this is."

Photo: (From left) John Thompson, Gail Gesell and Paul Thrift.