Britt, Iowa manufacturer recognized by U.S. Chamber of Commerce as a 2026 CO—100 honoree and Community Champion
The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center is proud to share that Original Group Holdings, the parent company of Original Saw Company and Williams & Hussey Machine and Tool, has been named one of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s 2026 CO—100: America’s Top 100 Small Businesses.
Original Group Holdings was selected from more than 12,000 businesses nationwide. The annual CO—100 recognizes small businesses for their growth, innovation and commitment to their customers and communities. In addition to being named a CO—100 honoree, Original Group Holdings was recognized as a 2026 Community Champion for its commitment to making a difference in Britt and the surrounding area.
“Being recognized as one of America’s Top 100 Small Businesses is something we’re very proud of,” said Allen Eden, owner and president of Original Group Holdings. “It affirms the hard work our entire team has put in over many years. Our employees are what make our companies great places to work. Everyone pulls together to get the job done, fulfill our customers’ orders and get equipment out the door.”
Original Saw Company has manufactured woodworking and industrial cutting equipment in Britt since 1990. The company produces radial arm saws, beam saws, crosscut power saws, saw measuring systems and material-handling equipment for customers across a range of industries.
In 2020, Original Group Holdings acquired Williams & Hussey Machine and Tool, a longtime New Hampshire manufacturer of planer/molders and profile knives. The company moved its operations to Britt, bringing the two American manufacturers together under Original Group Holdings. Today, the companies manufacture equipment in Britt and serve customers throughout the United States and around the world.
Eden’s commitment to his hometown also extends beyond the company’s manufacturing operations. A lifelong Britt-area resident who attended Britt schools, Eden and his employees support local schools, student activities, work-based learning opportunities, youth athletics, community events and other local initiatives. Employees who volunteer as firefighters or ambulance personnel are also given time away from work when they are needed for emergency calls. This school year, Original Saw joined two other local businesses in providing activity passes for all K–12 students in the local school district, allowing students to attend school activities throughout the year. “Britt has supported our company for many years, and it’s important to me that we support the community in return,” Eden said.
Eden’s leadership and commitment to entrepreneurship have previously been recognized by the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center, which named him Entrepreneur of the Month in December 2024. As a graduate of North Iowa Area Community College, Eden likes to say that he “chose NIACC first”. As an entrepreneur, Eden has consistently demonstrated his commitment to growing a manufacturing business while remaining invested in employees, customers and the local community. Candi Karsjens, Executive Director of the NIACC Pappajohn Center, said “Congratulations to Allen and Jennifer Eden on being named one of America’s Top 100 Small Businesses and a 2026 Community Champion by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. Their tenacity, persistence, and commitment to building a strong business while investing in their community exemplify the very best of entrepreneurship.”
Original Group Holdings will join the other 2026 CO—100 honorees in Washington, D.C., October 19–21 for events hosted by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, including networking and educational programs and the Night of 100 Stars awards gala.
The CO—100 is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s annual list recognizing 100 of America’s leading small businesses. The 2026 honorees represent companies from 36 states and Washington, D.C., and were selected from more than 12,000 applicants nationwide.
The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center is North Iowa’s hub for new business starts, innovation, and rural business success. From Main Street startups to industry leaders, we’re building a stronger Iowa through hands-on advising, stakeholder-driven programs, and a commitment to entrepreneurial education, from the classroom to the boardroom. Contact the NIACC Pappajohn Center at 641-422-4111 or pappajohn@niacc.edu. Visit the NIACC Pappajohn Center online at www.pappajohncenter.com.
