Chattanooga, TN (March 30, 2010) - The U.S. Small Business Association has announced that John Sweet of Niedlov's Breadworks is Tennessee's Small Business Person of the Year.

Citing Sweet's hard work, innovative ideas and dedication to the Chattanooga community, the Administration will honor Niedlov's during Small Business Week events in Washington, D.C. this May. Co-sponsors of the events include Visa, Ford, Google, eBay, Lockheed Martin and other leading American corporations.

In this economy, it is absolutely imperative to recognize small businesses that are innovative, committed, and smart. All across the country and around the world, entrepreneurs are deciding that it is not a good climate to invest time, energy, and money in their vision. Niedlov's demonstrates that it possible that while entrepreneurs must be smart and strategic, they need not compromise on their vision. Small business drives economic stability and growth, provides jobs and can often be more intimately involved in the surrounding community than larger companies.

Niedlov's influence goes deep because it consistently delivers quality products and demonstrates that a craft-centric entrepreneur can successfully launch a sustainable business in Chattanooga. The bakery also supports local food economy, promoting the use of local ingredients and selling to local restaurants from its earliest days - helping endorse local farmers, chefs and grocers' commitment to local and organic foods.

Niedlov's is also directly related to the engagement of small businesses throughout Chattanooga's developing Southside, where its Main Street bakery and store serve as an anchor business, helping encourage creative companies, restaurants and start-ups to act with bravery and confidence.

"We are proud to have been a part of Chattanooga's revival over the past several years," said Sweet. "As Chattanooga continues to develop its reputation as a forward thinking city, we are excited to be an active member of its business and food communities. This is a place ripe with opportunity and growth potential in many areas of civic and business life."

Founded in 2002 by John and Angela Sweet, Niedlov's Breadworks is Chattanooga's local, independent, artisan bread bakery. The company specializes in naturally leavened, organic, hand-crafted, artisan breads, which it sells in local restaurants, grocery stores and from its bakery and cafe at 215 East Main Street. http://niedlovs.com.