Local business featured in Forbes magazine

ANN ARBOR, Mich. – A local small business owner is featured in a national publication as one of this year's best small companies in the U.S.

Matowi Tileworks was started by Nawal Matowi 25 years ago in the garage of her home. Now she has nearly 40 employees and makes millions of dollars in revenue.

"I had heard about the list and I was certainly  hoping to make the list," Motawi said. "When I discovered that I was on the list and saw the other companies on the list, that blew me away."

Motawi Tileworks is one of 25 of Forbes magazine’s Small Giants 2017: America's Best Small Companies.

"I think we were chosen for the list because our product is superior,” said Motawi. “Our customers adore us. We're respected in the industry. Our employees are the envy of many because they know it's a healthy place to work. As soon as the magazine came out, my staff, they pulled together a secret celebration for me."

The Michigan grad has kept her business in Ann Arbor. Motawi Tileworks specializes in custom ceramic tile for home improvement and tile art for home decor.

"In the beginning I was just trying to make a living, and as things started working out really well, I have to admit I've gotten more ambitious," she said.

Motawi never imagined turning a fine arts degree into a business that does $3 million a year in revenue. She had a tip for operating a successful and profitable business.

"If I had to say one thing, I would say perseverance, dogged determination, and there's one other thing which is willingness to face the brutal facts," she said.

Motawi plans to take a vacation to England this summer.

For more information on Motawi Tileworks, click here.

Click here to read the Motawi Tileworks article in Forbes magazine.