Bill Shopoff says entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality.
“But in truth, there’s more than that. It’s about taking initiative in the face of uncertainty, stepping forward when others hesitate,” the CEO and president of Shopoff Realty Investments said during the Business Journal’s 2025 Excellence in Entrepreneurship Awards held March 20 at the Irvine Marriott.
Keynote speaker Shopoff, who received an EiE award in 2023, told a crowd of 377 that entrepreneurs see the world differently and turn setbacks into lessons, not failures.
During the event, five individuals were recognized for their creativity and determination in establishing successful business ventures, including Todd Watts. The CEO and co-founder of PatientFi in Irvine said being an entrepreneur means you’ll constantly “break through walls over and over,” but as your company continues to grow, “enjoy the journey.”
The event’s five honorees, selected from nearly 90 nominees, were:
• Julian Hamood, founder and chief visionary officer of Trusted Tech Team in Irvine
• Brent Kulp, president and CEO of TrafFix Devices in San Clemente
• Anthony Lee, president and CEO of Westcliff University in Irvine
• Todd Watts, CEO and co-founder of PatientFi in Irvine
• Charlie Zhang, philanthropist and founder of Zion Enterprises in Laguna Niguel
Read profiles of the winners in the March 31 print edition.
Upcoming Events
The Business Journal’s next event is the CFO of the Year Awards on May 8, where the master of ceremonies will be Murray Rudin, managing director of RLH Equity Partners in Irvine. The 26th annual Family-Owned Business Awards will be held June 12.
