The 28-year-old managing director of Schulz Organic Farms has reached the finals of the Victorian government’s Small Business Achiever Award.

The dairy manufacturing company was established in 2006, when Simon was 21 years old.

“I was doing cheese initially, but I had people saying I should do milks and yoghurts,” he said.

“So I was flexible and saw where the demand was and now the business is thriving because of it.” 

Last financial year the business grew more than 140 per cent from 2011. 

The company’s products include certified organic full-cream milk and yoghurt.

His family came into dairying in the early 1970s when his grandparents immigrated to Australia from Germany.

The entrepreneur is in the running to win $2000 and a trophy for his business ventures.

Minister for Youth Affairs, Ryan Smith, will announce the Victorian Young Achiever of the Year at a presentation dinner at Etihad Stadium in early April.

“I would encourage anyone who has got an idea to give it a shot,” Mr Schulz said.

“If you have the drive, work ethic and you can find the market you can definitely succeed.”