Jacksonville, January 30, 2026
Darrin Eakins, founder of DuBlasé Whiskey, has been awarded the 2026 Overall Small Business Leader of the Year by the JAX Chamber. This accolade recognizes his entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to community development in Jacksonville. Eakins has successfully grown his craft whiskey brand since its inception in 2020, and he actively contributes to local educational initiatives through the DuBlasé Foundation Inc.
Darrin Eakins Named Small Business Leader of the Year in Jacksonville
Recognition for Entrepreneurial Spirit and Community Commitment
Jacksonville, Florida – Darrin Eakins, the founder and owner of DuBlasé Whiskey, has been honored as the 2026 Overall Small Business Leader of the Year by the JAX Chamber. This prestigious award reflects the determination and innovation of local entrepreneurs who are driving economic growth in the Duval County area. The recognition emphasizes the vital role small businesses play in revitalizing the community and fostering an environment conducive to private investment and entrepreneurial spirit.
As Jacksonville continues to thrive, stories like Eakins’s stand out, showcasing how reduced red tape and supportive infrastructure can facilitate business success. His journey from engineering to whiskey production illustrates not just personal achievement but also the positive impact of local entrepreneurship on the economy.
DuBlasé Whiskey’s Growth and Reach
Founded in 2020, DuBlasé Whiskey has quickly established itself in the craft spirits market. Through strategic marketing and quality product development, the brand now effectively reaches consumers in states including California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Virginia, and Washington D.C., while also facilitating online purchases for home delivery in 38 states. This impressive growth demonstrates how a local distillery can expand its footprint and contribute to the broader Florida economic growth landscape.
Commitment to Education and Community
Eakins is not only dedicated to producing premium whiskey but also to giving back to the community. He has established the DuBlasé Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization that channels a portion of sales proceeds towards educational initiatives. This dual focus on quality products and community support highlights the interconnectedness of business success and social responsibility, inspiring other local entrepreneurs to consider how they can contribute positively to the community.
Background on Darrin Eakins
A graduate of Florida A&M University, Eakins differentiated himself by transitioning from a successful engineering career into the world of whiskey production. His commitment to excellence and community engagement has garnered accolades, including recognition in the Top 40 Under 40 by Florida A&M University and the Top 20 Under 40 by the Florida Black Expo. Eakins’s story serves as a testament to what motivated individuals can achieve in Jacksonville’s dynamic business climate.
About the JAX Chamber’s Small Business Leader of the Year Award
The Small Business Leader of the Year award, now in its 13th year, highlights outstanding entrepreneurs who demonstrate exceptional leadership, innovation, and community involvement. Darrin Eakins was selected from a highly competitive pool of 11 finalists, showcasing the wealth of talent within the local business community.
Other Finalists for the 2026 Award
- Dr. Tim Conway, The Morris Center – Jacksonville (Arlington Council)
- Justin Kane, DoubleChecked Cybersecurity (IT Council)
- Chris Kennelly, Kennetic Productions Inc. (Venture Services)
- Kati Lambert, Well Minded Hypnosis (Health Council)
- Boshawn Mack, Global Reliable Logistics, Inc. (Transportation & Logistics)
- Jason Pratt, Prattify (Downtown Council)
- Tom Snogles, Twinkle Nights (Three Rivers Council)
- Dawn Stewart, Pestle and Potions (Professional Women’s Council)
- April Watson, April Adventures Travel (Beaches Division)
- Heather Waisanen, Coastal Maverick (South Council)
In conclusion, Darrin Eakins’s recognition as the Small Business Leader of the Year serves as a motivational reminder of the resilience, innovation, and community focus that characterize Jacksonville’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Residents are encouraged to support local businesses and engage with initiatives that foster economic development within the area, ensuring that the spirit of entrepreneurship continues to thrive.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is Darrin Eakins?
Darrin Eakins is the founder and owner of Jacksonville-based DuBlasé Whiskey. He is a graduate of Florida A&M University and transitioned from a career in engineering to pursue his passion for producing premium whiskey. Eakins has been recognized with several accolades, including being named to the Top 40 Under 40 by Florida A&M University in 2023 and the Top 20 Under 40 by the Florida Black Expo in 2021.
What is DuBlasé Whiskey?
DuBlasé Whiskey is a locally distilled craft whiskey founded by Darrin Eakins in 2020. It is available in several states and can be purchased online for home delivery in 38 states. The company also operates the DuBlasé Foundation Inc., a 501(c)(3) organization that allocates a portion of sales proceeds to benefit education.
What is the JAX Chamber’s Small Business Leader of the Year award?
The Small Business Leader of the Year award, now in its 13th year, honors outstanding entrepreneurs who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and community involvement. Darrin Eakins was selected from a group of 11 finalists chosen by various chamber councils and divisions.
| Key Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Award | 2026 Overall Small Business Leader of the Year |
| Recipient | Darrin Eakins, founder and owner of DuBlasé Whiskey |
| Awarding Organization | JAX Chamber |
| Award Ceremony Date | January 29, 2026 |
| Award Ceremony Location | University of North Florida |
| DuBlasé Whiskey’s Distribution | Available in California, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Virginia, Washington D.C., and online in 38 states |
| DuBlasé Foundation Inc. | 501(c)(3) organization benefiting education |
| Other Finalists | 11 finalists from various chamber councils and divisions |
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