Nominations being accepted for 2026 National Small Business Week Awards

Nominations are being accepted for different categories in the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards by the Small Business Administration, said an announcement from Gov. Kay Ivey on Monday. 

“During National Small Business Week, we honor America’s job creators and the vital role they play in making our country the greatest in the world,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “From farms to factories, hardworking small businesses are the engine of our economy, the heartbeat of local communities and the foundation of our nation’s strength."

"Thanks to our free enterprise system, small businesses power generational opportunity and economic growth. With the America First agenda, they are a key part of a historic comeback that is renewing the promise of the American Dream.”

The Alabama categories include:

• Veteran-Owned Business of the Year
• Women-Owned Business Person of the Year
• Small Business Manufacturer of the Year
• Rural-Owned Business of the Year

All nominations must be submitted by Dec. 22 at 1 p.m. Information sessions about submissions can be found here.