Grand Rapids, Michigan— Symplicity Communications, Inc. has been recognized as a 2025 Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year, presented by Michigan Celebrates Small Business. Symplicity Communications will be recognized and celebrated during an awards ceremony in East Lansing on April 22, 2025.
Michigan Celebrates Small Business offers a platform for Michigan entrepreneurs to be recognized for their ingenuity and perseverance, and overall positive impact on the state’s economy. There have been over 1,000 companies honored at MCSB over the past 20 years, including 950 second-stage companies recognized by the Michigan 50 Companies to Watch Award.
“As we recognize many incredible entrepreneurs on the statewide stage at Michigan Celebrates Small Business, we want to give special recognition to Symplicity Communications as a Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year,” said Charity Dean, President of the Michigan Black Business Alliance and member of the Michigan Celebrates Small Business Advisory Committee. “These founders and owners inspire us deeply, knowing the unique challenges women in business face on their path to success. Symplicity Communications is emblematic of the entrepreneurial spirit that drives our state’s economy forward, and we are so proud of their success.”
Said Symplicity Communications President and CEO, Catherine Ripley, “What exciting news! I’m honored to share that Symplicity Communications has been named a 2025 Women-Owned Business of the Year honoree by Michigan Celebrates Small Business! This is our third MCSB award, following 50 Companies to Watch in 2018 and APEX Accelerator Best Small Business in 2024. Building this company has been an incredible journey, and I’m beyond grateful for our amazing team, partners, and customers who make it all possible. Thank you for your support—this win is for all of us!”
In 2024, among Symplicity’s many accomplishments, was selling the largest UCaaS deal in RingCentral’s history, catapulting them to the forefront of their industry. This achievement made Symplicity the #1 RingCentral agent out of 17,000 agents worldwide for 46 weeks in 2024, ending the year in the #2 spot globally. Because of this success, Symplicity became one of only 16 Diamond Partners worldwide—a status earned through innovation, trust, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
Companies nominated for the Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year award must be at least 51% owned and controlled by women. Women must be involved in managing the day-to-day operations and making long-term decisions for the business.
Awardees in this category are selected based on the following:
- Staying power, a history as an established business;
- Demonstrate stable number of employees;
- Financially stable;
- Demonstrated potential necessary for long-term business success and growth;
- Have a positive company culture where employees are valued;
- Community engagement, including contributions and volunteerism to aid community-oriented projects; and
- Voluntary efforts to support women directly or issues affecting women, including women-owned businesses within the community.
This year’s celebration includes a small business summit and VIP reception on Monday April 21st, with a Capitol Day and black-tie awards gala on April 22nd.
The full list of awardees and ticket information can be found at https://michigancelebrates.org.
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About Michigan Celebrates Small Business: The Small Business Association of Michigan (SBAM) Foundation serves as managing partner of the program, under the direction of a new advisory committee. The advisory committee includes the Edward Lowe Foundation, Kinexus, the Michigan Black Business Alliance, the Michigan Small Business Development Center, Michigan Rehabilitation Services, National Veteran Business Development Council, Small Business Association of Michigan and the West Michigan Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
**Symplicity Communications, established in 2007 and based in Grand Rapids, Michigan, is a supplier-neutral technology solutions advisor specializing in enhancing customer and digital experiences while ensuring cybersecurity and managing technology expenses. As a Certified Women Owned Business by WBENC and Diverse Business Enterprise by the Grand Rapids Chamber, we pride ourselves on our inclusive approach. By partnering with top industry vendors, we simplify the process for our clients, offering comprehensive solutions that optimize IT infrastructure, drive productivity, and ensure long-term success. With our dedicated team and extensive expertise, we serve as an invaluable extension of your company, guiding you through the complex landscape of technology to achieve your goals efficiently and effectively. **
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