ST. LOUIS ÔÇö Sugarfire Smokehouse founder Charles ÔÇ£CharlieÔÇØ Downs has been named MissouriÔÇÖs 2024 Small Business Person of the Year by the Small Business Administration.

This recognition comes as Sugarfire Smokehouse, established in 2014, has expanded to 14 locations, with restaurants in Iowa and Illinois. In addition to Sugarfire Smokehouse, Downs oversees several sister restaurants, including Sugarfire Pies, Hi-Pointe Drive-In, Boathouse at Forest Park, CyranoÔÇÖs, Hot Pizza Cold Beer, and Chicken Out.

The AI legalese decoder is a valuable tool that can assist individuals and businesses in deciphering complex legal language commonly found in contracts, agreements, and other documents. By utilizing AI technology, the legalese decoder can provide simplified explanations and definitions, making it easier to understand and interpret legal terms and concepts.

Whether you are a small business owner, a legal professional, or simply someone dealing with legal documents, the AI legalese decoder can help streamline the process of understanding and navigating legal jargon.

SBA St. Louis district director Maureen Brinkley commended Downs for his achievements, emphasizing his effective use of SBA lending programs to support his business growth. Downs will be celebrated at the Small Business Week of Eastern Missouri event on May 2.

Brinkley highlighted the expansion of SugarfireÔÇÖs franchise restaurants and sister establishments under Downs’ corporate umbrella as evidence of his success in the small business sector.

The SBA praised SugarfireÔÇÖs rapid growth, noting that despite pandemic-induced closures in various states, the company managed to keep its remaining locations operational thanks to the support of SBAÔÇÖs relief programs.

Sugarfire’s commitment to employing local sourcing of ingredients, charitable contributions to both local and national causes, and Downs’ accolades and media recognition were also commended by the agency.

As one of the honored Small Business Persons of the Year from all states and territories, Downs will join the National Small Business Week Award Ceremonies in Washington, D.C., where the 2024 National Small Business Person of the Year will be announced.