Donte Wilburn was recently selected as Small Business Person of the Year for Indiana by the U.S. Small Business Administration! This amazing honor is a testament to Donte’s work ethic, dedication, and those that have imparted their wisdom and supported him along the way.
Read on to learn how Donte started his career and why Premier Auto Detailing & Wash is more than just a business.
Donte’s Story
If you ask Donte why he launched Premier Auto Detailing & Wash, his response is simple. He started working in the car-washing and detailing industry—and while he was so thankful to have a job and took pride in what he was doing, he knew there was a better way to build a positive atmosphere for both clients and employees.
“When I came into this industry, I hated it. Employees were underpaid and managers treated their employees poorly. This created frustrated customers and poor quality. Something wasn't right,” says Donte.
Donte saw great opportunity and felt a calling to start his own small business to be the change he thought the auto detailing industry needed.
“In the midst of my complaint, I heard a small, still voice challenge me. What are you going to do about it, Donte? I said, give me an opportunity and I'll change this industry.
“Our business is built on two pillars, servanthood, and trust. Our team chooses to be here. This isn't just a job, it's a career. I don't want my employees asking, what am I doing here? But rather, what am I becoming here?”
Through his amazing efforts and the astounding impact of his small business, Donte has been selected as both Indiana’s Entrepreneur of the Year for 2021 and Indiana’s Small Business Person of the Year for 2022.
“From winning the Entrepreneur of the Year to meeting with the Governor and now to winning the National Small Business Person of the Year for Indiana, I’ve never forgotten that this accomplishment is the byproduct of having such an amazing support system!” says Donte.
"It's unbelievable. It's been unbelievable. Twenty years ago, I didn't even know what was going to be for my next meal. I remember not even having enough money to get gas in my vehicle to make it to work. And now, to be here, owning this facility, and have multiple businesses, it's unreal. I can't explain it.
“I couldn’t have done it without my family, employees, partners, managers, mentors, and those that gave me a chance. No one achieves anything alone! You all are terrific!”
We are so thankful to have such a passionate leader in Donte, and we love to hear how he encourages his employees to become the best versions of themselves. His hard work and dedication have created an astounding business that continues to grow and impress his clients with his expertise and professionalism!
