StartKleen's Rick Kimbrell Named Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Southwest Finalist by EY US

GUNTER, Texas — Rick Kimbrell, founder and CEO of StartKleen, has been named a finalist for the Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Southwest Award by Ernst & Young (EY US).

Now in its 41st year, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program recognizes leaders for their entrepreneurial achievements and impact in their businesses and industries. An independent panel of judges selected Kimbrell among 44 finalists based on their entrepreneurial spirit, purpose, company growth and lasting impact in building long-term value, StartKleen said. 

"StartKleen is a third-generation food safety business," said Rick Kimbrell. "Everything I've built comes from one principle my father Ray passed down: do what you say you're going to do. Being named a finalist among this group of Southwest entrepreneurs is humbling. I'm grateful for our clients, who trust us with their brands, and for our people, who take real pride in a profession most of the world never sees."

This year's Southwest finalists represent North Texas, Arkansas and Oklahoma across all industries, including professional services, consumer products, health, mobility and more.