)
AUSTRALIAN Innovative Systems (AIS) has taken out top honours in manufacturing at the Australian Small Business Champion Awards.
The awards recognise the contribution small businesses make to the economic development and culture of Australia, with more than 400 finalists this year.
The Brisbane-based manufacturer develops commercial and residential chlorine generators and water disinfection technology.
AIS CEO Elena Gosse (pictured left) accepted the award in Sydney over the weekend and thanked the event organisers for drawing attention to small businesses.
"As a manufacturer and small business owner I don't think that we celebrate or champion small businesses enough in Australia," Gosse says.
"Small business makes such a significant contribution to our economy, and in the case of AIS, is also helping to promote Australian designed and manufactured technology to the world.
"I would also like to encourage big business and governments of all levels to support small businesses more by considering products, technology and services that are available right here, in our own backyard."
AIS was established in 1974, with Gosse and her husband Kerry (pictured right) purchasing the business in 1992.
The company employs more than 50 staff across its three facilities and head office in Brisbane.
"Running a successful small manufacturing business is like being part of a big family" Gosse says.
"I want to acknowledge the skills and dedication of the AIS family, every single member of our staff, for continuing to drive innovation in our company so that we can claim our position as leaders in the Australian water disinfection industry."
)
