Our Journey to Being Recognized by the Dallas Cowboys x Lenovo Small Business Empowerment Project

Our Journey to Being Recognized by the Dallas Cowboys x Lenovo Small Business Empowerment Project

At the beginning of August, I came across an opportunity that I almost passed up—the Dallas Cowboys x Lenovo Small Business Empowerment Project. The grand prize included a $50,000 media package, and the competition was open to small businesses in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Participants needed to be nominated by others who believed they deserved this recognition. At first, I hesitated. Who would have thought that a small sneaker restoration business like mine would have a chance in a competition like this? But I decided to take the leap and enter, just to see what might happen.

The Call That Changed Everything

Fast forward to the moment I received a call from the Dallas Cowboys organization. When I saw their name pop up on my phone, I stood up immediately, heart racing. To my surprise, they informed me that out of 894 small businesses, I had been selected as one of the top 10 finalists! I could hardly believe it—I almost didn’t even enter!

A Day with Legends and New Technology

As a finalist, I had the incredible opportunity to meet with the Dallas Cowboys and Lenovo teams, including NFL Hall of Fame legend Drew Pearson. They visited my business and even gifted me $5,000 worth of brand-new technology. The tech bundle included a desktop, laptop, tablet, headset, Chromebox, and various accessories that are going to be game-changers for my business operations.

But the surprises didn’t end there. I was also invited to attend the Cowboys vs. Saints game on September 15th. Watching the game from a luxury suite was surreal, but what made it even more special was going down to the field and watching both teams warm up. We even bumped into Mike Tyson as we entered the stadium—another unexpected highlight! When we reached the suite, we were gifted footballs featuring our business name, along with other Cowboys-themed accessories like hats, towels, and cups. It was a day of unforgettable moments.

An Unforgettable Experience

As if the experience couldn’t get any better, before the game started, all of the finalists' videos were played on the Jumbotron for the entire stadium to see. We were invited to stand on the field as the crowd cheered us on. Meeting Jerry Jones’ wife was another amazing moment. Although I didn’t win the final prize, I felt like a winner just being part of this incredible journey.

After the game, my wife and I took the chance to walk around the field, taking photos on the star and in the end zone. The hospitality, the energy, and the recognition were beyond what I ever could have imagined. From the complimentary food and drinks to the memories made, it was truly an experience I’ll never forget.

A Huge Thanks to Lenovo and the Dallas Cowboys

Out of nearly 900 small businesses, being recognized as a top 10 finalist for the Dallas Cowboys x Lenovo Small Business Empowerment Project is an achievement I’m deeply grateful for. It highlights our dedication to excellence, innovation, and growth within the sneaker restoration industry and the Dallas community. Never did I think I would be part of something this big, and it still feels surreal.

A huge Texas-sized thank you to Lenovo and the Dallas Cowboys for this incredible opportunity! The new technology will allow me to take my business to the next level, and I’m excited for what the future holds.

Gratitude and Faith: My Journey in Business

I once prayed to be where I am today, and this entire experience is a reminder to never give up, no matter how hard the road may get. My faith has always been a source of strength for me. I live by Matthew 17:20: "All you need is faith the size of a mustard seed." That’s exactly what has carried me through the toughest times in building this business.

There were moments when I doubted myself and considered giving up. But my wife, always by my side, believed in me when I didn’t believe in myself. She saw something special in me and kept encouraging me to push forward.

This is just the beginning. I’m marking my words now—one day, I will be part of something even bigger involving the Dallas Cowboys.

Looking Ahead

To everyone who made it into the top 10 finalists, congratulations. It’s been an honor to be in this group of hardworking, passionate business owners. This journey has been a testament to perseverance, faith, and community support. And to everyone reading this: if you have a dream, no matter how small, trust in yourself and keep going. Who knows where that leap of faith will take you?

I’m incredibly blessed to have had this experience, and I’m excited for what’s to come. Here’s to continuing the journey and growing this business that I’ve worked so hard to build.