SBA Has Opened Nominations for 2027 Small Business Awards
The U.S. Small Business Administration is now accepting nominations for annual honors recognizing business growth.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Business — General
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The U.S. Small Business Administration has officially opened the nomination period for its 2027 National Small Business Week awards. Business owners across the country can now be nominated or submit their own applications for consideration.
Why it matters
The program honors exceptional business owners for their significant contributions to national economic growth and local community development. Recipients of these awards gain national recognition during the annual commemorative week.
The nomination window is open until December 7, 2026, at 3:00 PM ET. The program, which has recognized entrepreneurs since 1963, will culminate in National Small Business Week from May 2 to May 8, 2027.
The players
U.S. Small Business Administration
This federal agency provides support to small business owners through programs, counseling, and capital access.
West Virginia District Office
This local branch of the federal agency coordinates regional award nominations and small business resources.
The details
Candidates can be submitted through the agency website for various specialty categories, including exporter, manufacturer, and veteran-owned small business awards. Regional winners, such as those from the West Virginia District Office, will go on to compete for the national title in Washington, D.C.
Timeline
The award recognition program began in 1963.
Nominations must be submitted by 3:00 PM ET on December 7, 2026.
National Small Business Week is scheduled for May 2 to May 8, 2027.
Market Landscape
This program reflects a broader trend of federal investment in local economic development and entrepreneurship recognition. It positions the agency as a central pillar in supporting small businesses against larger corporate market competitors.
Small business owners may leverage this recognition to boost brand credibility and visibility within their local markets. Participating businesses can gain access to federal networking opportunities and public recognition for their economic contributions.
The takeaway
Entrepreneurs should ensure their applications highlight measurable community impact and growth to stand out in the national selection process. Keeping detailed records of business milestones can strengthen the case for regional and national award consideration.
What happens next
The nomination deadline occurs on December 7, 2026, followed by the national event scheduled for May 2 to May 8, 2027.
Further reading
Learn more about federal support initiatives on the Business — General section page.
More information
Submit your application or learn about requirements on the Small Business Week nomination portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Moorefield Examiner.
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Do you believe federal recognition programs provide meaningful support to local small business owners?
