Mackinac Island, Mich. – Mark Ware, CEO of Mission Point Resort on Mackinac Island was recognized as a finalist for a national small business advocate award, the Small Business Association of Michigan announced. 

The National Small Business Association’s (NSBA) 2022 Lewis Shattuck Small Business Advocate of the Year award recognizes small business owners who go above and beyond in advocating for policies to improve America’s small businesses. Ware also serves on SBAM’s Board of Directors.

“Mark Ware has done amazing things at Mission Point and is a tremendous advocate for small businesses,” said SBAM President and CEO Brian Calley. “It’s well-earned and exciting to see NSBA recognize his talent and devotion to small businesses.”

As a result of Ware’s hard work, Mission Point experienced revenue and employment growth during the COVID-19 pandemic, which bolstered the Mackinac Island economy. He is a strong advocate on small business staffing issues in rural areas and is working with lawmakers to streamline the work visa process to temporarily hire individuals from other countries.

“Mark has successfully blended his business and his advocacy work—and it’s proved to be of great benefit to all small businesses,” stated NSBA Board Chair Mike Stanek of Hunt Imaging, LLC in Berea, Ohio. “His dedication to small-business advocacy at every turn makes him an outstanding advocate.”

Ware was one of five small business owners named as finalists for this honor.