Sam Ackland, the brains behind cleaning business Build Clean, has been named the 2020 South Australian Young Entrepreneur of the Year at a graduation awards ceremony held at the National Wine Centre tonight.
The 29-year-old started the business in 2018, which provides cleaning services to some of the State’s award-winning builders of residential and commercial properties.
In just two years, Build Clean has built a reputation for setting a high benchmark and uses an innovative app-based system to ensure clients receive the highest quality clean.
The judges recognised Sam as the South Australian Young Entrepreneur Scheme’s (SAYES) Young Entrepreneur of the Year for his clear and well-thought out business plan and significant growth of his business over the last 12 months.
“Build Clean’s sole commitment to the construction industry and meticulous cleaning processes has led to successful handovers for their clients and as a result, the business has grown dramatically,” said Business SA CEO, Martin Haese.
“Through strong planning, clear strategies and relationship building with current and future clients, Sam has increased staff at Build Clean from 18 to 34 employees over the past 12 months defying the economic downturn.
“Sam’s dedication to high performance, efficiency and sustainability makes him a worthy 2020 SAYES Young Entrepreneur of the Year award winner.”
This year, SAYES celebrated its 22nd year with tonight’s Class of 2019 joining more than 700 young South Australians who have graduated from the popular program. Over the past 12 months they have been mentored, tested ideas, developed business plans, in market and launched businesses.
Other award winners were Claire Robinson who took out Business Growth Award for The Lotus Project, a business that provides disability and support services, which has increased annual turnover by over 300 per cent, profits by 72 per cent and grown from 60 to 80 employees.
Business Plan of the Year went to mother-of-two from Murray Bridge, Alex Morgan, for Move Pilates Studio and Andrew Russo was named Mentor of the Year.
Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni MP, said the Marshall Government was proud to support the SAYES program, which is open to South Australians aged 18-35.
“Young entrepreneurs, with their innovative ideas, risk taking, and ambition are more important than ever as South Australia seeks to bounce back from COVID-19,” said Minister Pisoni.
“Congratulations to all of tonight’s winners we look forward to seeing their businesses grow from strength to strength over the coming years.”