Awards
STRATEGIC SALES MANAGEMENT PROGRAM
Issued by: Harvard Division of Continuing Education — Cambridge, Massachusetts 2025
Description: This executive program equipped Laura with advanced strategies in sales leadership, organizational growth, and innovative management practices, skills she applies directly to elevating Grakei Maids’ customer service, team culture, and business excellence.
DANE COUNTY SMALL BUSINESS AWARD
Issued by: In Business Madison Magazine — Madison, WI 2022
Description: This recognition highlights our commitment to excellence, innovation, and service within the cleaning industry. The award celebrates small businesses that not only drive economic growth, but also make meaningful contributions to the community. At Grakei Maids, we are honored to be recognized for creating local jobs, fostering a positive workplace culture, and supporting families and organizations in Dane County with reliable, high-quality cleaning services. This achievement award reflects our ongoing dedication to strengthening the local economy and giving back to the community we are proud to serve.
40 UNDER 40
Issued by: In Business Madison Magazine — Madison, WI 2020
Description: Grakei Maids is led by Laura Barnard, who was honored as one of In Business Madison Magazine’s 2020 40 Under 40 award recipients. This recognition celebrates rising leaders across Dane County who demonstrate outstanding professional achievement,leadership, and community impact. Laura’s vision, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit have been central to Grakei Maids’ growth and reputation for excellence. Beyond building a successful small business that creates jobs and supports families, she is committed to uplifting the community and inspiring other entrepreneurs. Her inclusion in this prestigious group reflects both her individual accomplishments and the values that guide Grakei Maids every day.
ACCREDITED RESIDENTIAL CLEANING SERVICE SEAL
Issued by: Association of Residential Cleaning Services International — 2015
Description: In addition to adhering to a strict code of ethics, cleaning services that receive the Seal must also provide documentation that they are insured and bonded, conduct background checks for employees as part of their hiring process, participate in ongoing industry continuing education programs, and proof the company has been in business for at least two (2) years.
LATINA-OWNED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD
Presented by: The Latino Chamber of Commerce of Dane County — Madison, WI 2014
Description: This Award recognizes Latino Companies that display outstanding ethics in dealing with customers, employees, vendors and the community from all businesses in the Dane County Region.
PROUD PARTNER OF CLEANING FOR A REASON SINCE 2013
Affiliation Cleaning 4 A Reason — 2013
Description: Cleaning For A Reason is a nonprofit organization that provides free house cleaning for cancer patients. Grakei Maids has served 31 Women undergoing cancer treatment and donated $16,800 in Free house cleanings since 2013.
ARCSI PROFESSIONAL IMAGE AWARD
Presented by: Association of Residential Cleaning Services International — Las Vegas, 2013
Description: Nominated and voted by peers in the Home Cleaning Industry for BEST UNIFORM and BEST MARKETING CAMPAIGN.
ANGIE’S LIST SUPER SERVICE AWARD 2011
Presented by: Angie’s List— Madison, WI 2011
Description: Nominated and voted by Angie List’s Members in the House Cleaning/Maid Service Category.
IICRC HCT (HOUSE CLEANING TECHNICIAN)
Certifying Organization: Institute of Inspection, Cleaning, and Restoration Certification (IICRC)
Description:The House Cleaning Technician has the knowledge and understanding through the application of science and proven methods for proper cleaning maintenance of a residential home.
