Since 2003, the Business Times has worked with the SBA and other organizations to bring you a special report that celebrates small businesses. The report includes profiles of innovative companies, how-to articles and an in-depth resource guide.
This year’s suggested categories. If your nominee doesn’t quite fit, nominate them under “Never Say Never”.
- Small Business Advocate: A Chamber of Commerce or support organization that went above and beyond in supporting small business.
- All In the Family Award: A family business that includes multiple generations.
- Community Spirit Award: A small business that has partnered with one of our military bases or another government/education institution to advance entrepreneurship.
- Look Back Award: Spotlighting a past winner that’s achieved a significant milestone.
- Green Business Award: An innovative small business in the environment/sustainability area.
- Never Say Never award: For a small business that has successfully overcome obstacles, including disaster recovery.
- Veteran Business Award: Recognizing a veteran-owned business
- Thinks Global Award: An exporter or manufacturer that has expanded through international growth.
- New Economy Award: A minority or LGBTQ-owned company that has found strength in diversity.
Entries will also be judged based upon the nominee’s record of success and community commitment, in addition to meeting the basic requirements of being Tri-County-based and having 250 or fewer employees.
For questions, please reach out to Executive Editor Jorge Mercado at [email protected].
For advertising or sponsorship, please reach out to Digital Advertising Manager Jennie Carusa at [email protected]
- Nominations close: June 26, 2026
- Section publishes: July 31, 2026
