Exemplifying the innovation, drive and persistence of a successful entrepreneur, Allen Osteen of Vero Beach and East Coast Lumber and Supply Company was recognized with the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program’s 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year Award.
Announcement of the award was the highlight of the Entrepreneur of the Year Award dinner held on Thursday, March 1 at the Indian River State College Richardson Center at the Mueller Campus in Vero Beach. The award, which recognizes the entrepreneurial spirit, business excellence, and community involvement, is a central element of the Dan K. Richardson Entrepreneurship Program established by the IRSC Foundation and 13 other founding members to promote awareness and appreciation of the free enterprise system.
“Recognizing the spirit of entrepreneurship and the role that it plays in developing communities and supporting their economic success is crucially important. Allen Osteen’s innovation, drive and persistence exemplify the characteristics of a successful entrepreneur and it is a great honor to present him with the 2018 Entrepreneur of the Year Award,” shares Dr. Edwin R. Massey, IRSC President. “As the fourth generation of leadership of one of the oldest independent lumber and building material dealers in Florida, Allen propels East Coast Lumber and Supply Company into the 21st century as a thriving and respected enterprise. And his strong commitment to community led him to co-found Indian River Magazine, which has been serving the Treasure Coast for more than a decade.”
Osteen joined East Coast Lumber in 1989 as Chief Executive Officer and Owner. Looking for opportunities for growth and expansion in the lumber business, In 1996 Osteen became partner and Joyner Lumber in Lakeland Florida serving as Vice President and Owner. In 2006, recognizing the need and opportunity for an upscale magazine to feature the area’s unique history and resources, Osteen partnered with Gregory Enns to launch Indian River Magazine, a highly successful enterprise producing five publications that highlight local communities, events and activities. Osteen serves as Vice President and Assistant Publisher for the publication.
