Meet SA’s Young Entrepreneur of the Year
An Adelaide businessman who went from a one-person operation to employing 34 staff in two years has been named this year’s South Australian Young Entrepreneur of the Year.
SA Business
Don't miss out on the headlines from SA Business. Followed categories will be added to My News.
Adelaide-based business Build Clean’s founder Sam Ackland, 29, has been named this year’s SA Young Entrepreneur.
Mr Ackland started his Panorama-based cleaning business for the residential and commercial building industry in 2018 and has since grown to now employ 34 staff.
His achievements were celebrated as part of graduation ceremony for the Business SA-run South Australian Young Entrepreneur Scheme on Thursday.
SAYES celebrated its 22nd year, which has supported more than 700 young entrepreneurs.
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, Business SA said.
“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,” Business SA chief executive Martin Haese said.
“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.”
Judges recognised his dedication to high performance, efficiency and sustainability, Mr Haese said.
Another 2020 graduate, Claire Robinson, received the Business Growth Award for The Lotus Project, a business that provides disability and support services.
She has driven the business to increase annual turnover by over 300 per cent, profits by 72 per cent and grown from 60 to 80 employees.
Murray Bridge businesswoman Alex Morgan was celebrated for her Business Plan of the Year for her Move Pilates Studio business.
Andrew Russo was named Mentor of the Year.
Innovation and Skills Minister David Pisoni said the 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,” he said.