Small business owners, mark your calendars: the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has officially opened nominations for the 2027 National Small Business Week Awards. This annual event, celebrated from May 2–8, 2027, aims to honor exceptional entrepreneurs and small business leaders across the nation. With nominations due by 3:00 PM ET on December 7, 2026, now is the time for owners to recognize their achievements and those of their peers.
“Thanks to President Trump, the golden age for small businesses is here, with record new business starts, rising employment and investment, and historically high small business optimism,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. Her remarks underscore a climate of renewed confidence, which small business owners can leverage as they nominate themselves or others for recognition.
This initiative, which has been celebrated since 1963, showcases one standout business owner from each of the 50 states plus the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam. These selected individuals will vie for the coveted title of 2027 National Small Business Person of the Year, the SBA’s most prestigious award. Additionally, the SBA invites nominations for specialty categories that highlight excellence in various areas of entrepreneurship.
The award categories include:
- Small Business Manufacturer of the Year
- Exporter of the Year
- Blue Collar Small Business of the Year
- Rural Small Business of the Year
- Veteran Small Business of the Year
- Phoenix Award for Small Business Disaster Recovery
Nominations can be submitted online at SBA.gov/nsbw and must adhere to the guidelines provided. Owners willing to share their stories or those seeking to uplift fellow entrepreneurs could find this opportunity beneficial not only for recognition but also for showcasing their contributions to local economies.
For the past several years, SBA has held a ceremony in Washington, D.C., to recognize the national award recipients, which adds a layer of prestige to these honors. In 2026, award winners were celebrated by President Donald J. Trump at the White House during a Small Business Summit, highlighting the importance of small businesses in America’s economic recovery phase.
However, while this recognition can elevate a business’s profile, there are practical considerations for nominees. The process requires clear documentation of accomplishments and a compelling narrative that truly captures a business’s impact and journey. Small business owners might also want to initiate discussions with their teams or mentors to gather insights that can enhance their nomination—preparing a strong submission often requires collaboration and introspection.
As small business owners evaluate the nomination process, it’s worth contemplating the broader implications of participating in such awards. Recognition can have long-term benefits, including increased visibility, potential media coverage, and networking opportunities with other successful entrepreneurs. Furthermore, many award winners often report enhanced customer trust and loyalty, as well as improved employee morale from being part of an award-winning team.
Prospective nominees should visit SBA.gov/nsbw to access resources including eligibility requirements, guidelines, and nomination forms. Understanding these elements is crucial not only for submitting a nomination but also for articulating a business’s unique value proposition effectively.
In a time when small business confidence is on the rise, this award present an opportunity for owners to reflect on their contributions to their communities and the broader economy. As the countdown begins toward the award nominations, small business leaders have a chance not just to celebrate their achievements but to inspire others within their networks. Engaging in the nomination process could yield more than just an accolade; it can serve as a catalyst for growth and recognition that reaches well beyond the ceremony in Washington, D.C.
By participating in the SBA’s National Small Business Week Awards, entrepreneurs can not only honor their successes but also play a vital role in the ongoing narrative of America’s resilient economic landscape.
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