Why Bridges Learning Center Won the U.S. Chamber of Commerce CO-100 Award

Published on September 26, 2025 By Keli, Founder

When we started Bridges Learning Center in 2023, our dream was simple: create a place where every child with autism could truly thrive. We never imagined that just two years later, we'd be named among America's Top 100 Small Businesses by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.

What is the CO-100 Award?

The CO-100 recognizes the nation's most innovative and impactful small businesses. Out of thousands of applicants across the United States, only 100 companies are selected each year. Bridges Learning Center was honored in the "Disruptors" category – businesses that are "boldly venturing into uncharted territory by introducing groundbreaking services and redefining traditional education structures."

Why We Were Chosen

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized Bridges for several key innovations:

Individualized Systems for Every Student: We integrate TEACCH aspects, relationship building, and sensory diets to create a completely customized learning system for each child. Rather than forcing students into one-size-fits-all programs, we design individual approaches that honor each learner's unique needs and strengths.

Intentionally Small by Design: We cap enrollment at just 15 students to maintain our 3:1 staff-to-student ratio. This isn't just about small class sizes; it's about creating a learning environment where we can truly know each child – their sensory preferences, communication style, learning patterns, and individual goals.

Relationship-Centered Approach: Education happens through connection. Our staff builds genuine relationships with each student, understanding that trust and emotional safety are the foundation for all learning. When children feel truly seen and understood, they're ready to take on new challenges.

Sensory-Smart Environment: Every student has unique sensory needs. We integrate personalized sensory diets throughout the day, ensuring each child has the sensory input they need to learn, focus, and thrive. This isn't an add-on service – it's woven into everything we do.

One-Room Schoolhouse Model: Our mixed-age classroom allows for natural peer mentoring while our intentionally small enrollment (capped at just 15 students) ensures we can maintain our 3:1 ratio and provide truly individualized attention. This strategic size allows us to focus on building deep relationships and creating personalized learning systems rather than managing large groups.

TEACCH Integration: We incorporate proven TEACCH strategies like visual supports and structured environments, but always adapted to each individual student's needs and preferences.

What This Means for Casa Grande Families

This national recognition validates what our families already know – Bridges Learning Center offers something truly special. As one of only 100 businesses selected nationwide, we're proud to bring this level of excellence to autism education right here in Casa Grande, Arizona.

The award also highlights our commitment to continuous improvement. We're not just maintaining the status quo; we're actively working to redefine what autism education can and should be.

Our Students Are the Real Winners

While we're honored by this recognition, the real success stories happen every day in our classrooms. Students who arrive with limited verbal skills leave us holding conversations. Children who struggled with basic routines become independent in daily living skills. Families who felt lost in the traditional education system find hope and progress at Bridges.

Want to learn more about our award-winning approach? Visit our About Us page to see how we're redefining autism education through relationship building and individualized systems.

Looking Forward

This CO-100 recognition motivates us to continue pushing boundaries in autism education. We're currently expanding our TEACCH integration and exploring new partnerships to serve even more families in the Casa Grande area.

As we often say at Bridges: "If they can't learn the way we teach, we teach the way they learn." This award proves that when you truly put students first, excellence follows.

For more information about the U.S. Chamber of Commerce CO-100 program, visit uschamber.com/co/profiles/bridges-learning-center.

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