SkyNano Recognized as Woman-Owned Business Excellence Recipient at Pinnacle Business Awards

The Knoxville Chamber is pleased to announce SkyNano as the recipient of the Pinnacle Business Award in the Woman-Owned Business Excellence category. SkyNano develops advanced nanomaterials and coatings that enhance durability, performance, and sustainability for industrial and consumer products. The Woman-Owned Business Excellence Award, sponsored by KaTom Restaurant Supply, is presented to an outstanding East Tennessee woman-owned business.

As a woman leading a hardware technology company, Douglas acknowledges the unique challenges she faces. “There aren’t many women in this sector. It can feel isolating, but I’ve been fortunate to have strong relationships with other women in the Knoxville community who are leading STEM companies. Their support and guidance have been invaluable,” she said.

SkyNano’s success is deeply connected to the Knoxville-area’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, with founder Anna Douglas emphasizing the vital role of local support for hardware-based startups. Strategic decision-making has been central to the company’s growth, as Douglas explained that SkyNano initially focused on defense-related projects, where risk tolerance and funding support allowed them to refine their technology. This approach has enabled the company to build robust data and capabilities that can later be applied to consumer products.

“SkyNano’s recognition as the Woman-Owned Business Excellence Award recipient highlights the remarkable impact Anna Douglas and her team have made in our region,” said Mike Odom, president and CEO of the Chamber. “Their innovation and leadership set a powerful example for women entrepreneurs and strengthen our community’s business ecosystem.”

The annual Pinnacle Business Awards, presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners, celebrate regional business excellence, honoring outstanding professionals in nine categories for their contributions to the greater Knoxville economy. Winners are selected by the Knoxville Chamber Board of Directors. Approximately 200 companies are nominated annually for recognition.

“Congratulations to this year’s Pinnacle Business Award winners,” said Mike DiStefano, Pinnacle’s Knoxville president. “At Pinnacle Financial Partners, we are guided by strong values, and those same principles are clearly reflected in this year’s honorees. Building a successful business takes vision and resilience, along with steady leadership. We are proud to celebrate these Knoxville-area companies and individuals for their excellence and look forward to supporting their continued growth as we work together to strengthen the Knoxville region’s economy.”

For in-depth video interviews and more information on the Pinnacle 2026 Business Awards, presented by Pinnacle Financial Partners, visit www.knoxvillechamber.com/pinnacle.