The 2020 SA Young Entrepreneur of the Year is Flinders University graduate Sam Ackland (BBus(Mktg) ‘16).
The 29-year-old Adelaide businessman founded his Panorama-based cleaning business, Build Clean, in 2018 and has grown from a one-person operation to employ 34 staff.
His achievements were celebrated as part of graduation ceremony for the Business SA-run South Australian Young Entrepreneur Scheme (SAYES).
Over the past 22 years, the scheme has supported more than 700 young entrepreneurs.
SAYES sponsor Business SA says 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.
“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,” says Business SA chief executive 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.”
Judges recognised his dedication to high performance, efficiency and sustainability, Mr Haese says.
Mr Ackland continues to support Flinders University by being a Work Integrated Learning placement provider.
Build Clean took on its first placement student in March and is offering a summer placement for late 2020-21.
Minister for Innovation and Skills, David Pisoni MP, says the State Government is 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,” Mr Pisoni says.