Is your small business growing, thriving and making a difference? Or do you know a local business that deserves some much-needed spotlight? Now is the time! The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) is now accepting nominations for the 2027 National Small Business Week awards. Keep reading to learn more.
National Award Categories
Small Business Person of the Year
Small Business Exporter of the Year
Small Business Manufacturer of the Year
Rural Small Business of the Year
Blue-Collar Small Business of the Year
Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year
District Award Categories
Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year
Family-Owned Small Business of the Year
General Eligibility Requirements
Any U.S. citizen or U.S. national who has their principal residence in the United States, its territories or possessions, who owns 51% of a business and operates a small business for a minimum of three years prior to being nominated may be nominated. Partners who jointly own and operate a small business may be nominated as a “team” so long as the number of individuals in the team nomination does not exceed four.
Must be in good standing on any federal obligations.
Individuals who have received at least one type of SBA assistance.
Nomination Guidelines and Forms
Individuals may self-nominate or nominate their favorite local business. For more information, nomination forms, and the online submission portal, visit the SBA’s National Small Business Week Awards page.
Nomination guidelines & formsSubmission Deadline
Monday, December 7, 2026, at 3 p.m. ET.
Announcements
Winners will be announced during National Small Business Week, May 2–8, 2027.
Upcoming Info Sessions
Join the SBA West Virginia and Delaware District Offices to learn more about nomination categories, award eligibility, and tips for submitting a strong nomination:
October 15, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET
October 29, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET
November 4, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET
November 25, 2026, at 10 a.m. ET
Questions
For questions on eligibility and submissions in the West Virginia District, please contact Nikki Bowmar at nikki.bowmar@sba.gov.