R.A.V.E.

Recognizing Awarding Valuing Entrepreneurs

In the spirit of celebrating Entrepreneurship Week each year in November, RAEDI hosts a R.A.V.E. Event to recognize and award innovative entrepreneurs in the Rochester area. This event allows RAEDI and its partners in the entrepreneurial community to shine a spotlight on our entrepreneurs and the growing entrepreneurial ecosystem in the Rochester area.

11th Annual R.A.V.E. Event

2024 entrepreneurial awards were presented on November 7, 2024, at the 11th Annual R.A.V.E. Event, to to Dr. Andre Terzic and Dr. Atta Behfar, co-founders of RIONFrancisco and Maria Lopez, co-founders of Lopez and Son Construction and owner of La Michoacana Purépecha, Michelle Hamilton, co-founder of Dandelion Naturals. Also honored was Benike Construction with the Lifetime Achievement Award recognizing the company’s 87 years of excellence since its founding by Alvin E. Benike. Additionally, the Warrior Award was presented to Bucky Beeman for his advocacy and work on the digital Market Update Series, which highlights new businesses in the Rochester area.

See their videos below.

2024 R.A.V.E. Lifetime Achievement Honoree

Benike Construction

2024 R.A.V.E.
Warrior Honoree

Bucky Beeman

2024 R.A.V.E. Entrepreneur Honorees

Michelle Hamilton
Co-Founder of Dandelion Naturals

Dr. Atta Behfar and Dr. Andre Terzic
Co-Founders of RION

Francisco and Maria Lopez
Co-owners of Lopez & Son Construction and La Michoacana Purépecha