NGTC Announces Manufacturer of the Year Nominee

A Clarkesville company is being put forth by North Georgia Technical College as a candidate for 2015 Manufacturer of the Year in the Small Business category.

The college nominated direct sales company Initials, Inc. for the honor on Wednesday.

Located in Clarkesville, Initials, Inc. has been ranked by Inc. Magazine as one of the fastest growing, privately held companies in America three years in a row.

Company spokesperson Darren Vickery said Initials started as a home business in a spare bedroom and home office and has now grown into a multi-million dollar direct sales business opportunity for women and families across America.

He said their corporate office has grown to approximately 60 full-time employees that represent both professional and skilled labor.

In 2012, Initials, Inc. launched the ICare Foundation and annually contributes to international philanthropic organizations such as Bethany Christian Services, United Way, and Africare Internationally, according to NGTC Vice

President for Economic Development Dr. Mark Ivester.

He said Initials, Inc. also invests in their employees through programs such as Success Rewards based on company profitability, the IWalk Challenge which promotes health and fitness, the High 5 Award recognizing exemplary performance, and the Smarty Pants Award for process improvement.

In 2014, Governor Nathan Deal issued a proclamation declaring April 14-18 as Manufacturing Appreciation Week and noted the tremendous contribution manufacturing makes to the state’s economic well-being.