
Gardner Chiropractic was recognized by the U.S. Small Business Administration as New York’s 2026 Small Business Person of the Year during National Small Business Week in Washington, D.C.
The SBA’s National Small Business Week awards program highlights outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community members from across the country. Gardner Chiropractic’s award reflects the practice’s resilience, leadership, and continued commitment to serving its patients and community.
Owned by Dr. Emily Gardner and Dr. Sam Gardner, Gardner Chiropractic earned the recognition after successfully navigating a major operational disruption while continuing to provide uninterrupted patient care. Assisted by the Southwest Region Small Business Development Center hosted by Jamestown Community College, the practice relocated unexpectedly after the roof of its former building collapsed in 2024.
Following the collapse, the Gardners quickly secured temporary office space to ensure patients continued receiving care without interruption. While operating from a short-term location with limited space, they continued evaluating options for a permanent location that would better support the practice’s future.
In 2025, Gardner Chiropractic relocated to a larger facility on North Union Street in Olean, NY. The new location supports expanded treatment capacity, improved operational flexibility, and new opportunities for collaboration through additional office space within the building.
The transition allowed the practice not only to recover from a significant disruption but also to strengthen its long-term ability to serve more patients and continue growing as a healthcare small business.
“We are incredibly honored by this recognition and grateful for the support of our patients, staff, and community throughout this transition,” the practice shared following the announcement. “This experience reinforced the importance of resilience, adaptability, and community support.”
Congratulations to Dr. Emily Gardner, Dr. Sam Gardner, and the Gardner Chiropractic team on this national recognition. Their story reflects how small business owners can adapt through disruption, continue serving their communities, and plan for long-term growth.

“Gardner Chiropractic’s story shows how small business owners can navigate disruption with resilience, continue serving their community, and plan for long-term growth.”
Sonya Smith | State Director, New York SBDC
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