The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has officially opened nominations for the 2025 National Small Business Week awards, continuing a tradition that has recognized small businesses for over 60 years [03bc688c]. SBA Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman highlighted the critical role that small businesses play in job creation and community service, stating that these awards showcase their contributions to the economy [03bc688c]. Nominations are due by 3 p.m. on December 5, 2024, with the awards ceremony scheduled for May 4-10, 2025, in Washington, D.C. [04b17e21].
The awards categories include Small Business Person of the Year, Small Business Exporter of the Year, and the Phoenix Awards for Disaster Recovery, among others [03bc688c]. Additionally, the Iowa SBA District Office will offer specific awards for Women, Minority, and Veteran Small Business Champions, recognizing the diverse contributions of these groups to the small business landscape [03bc688c].
In related news, DuJuan McCoy was recently named the 2024 Small Business Person of the Year for Indiana, highlighting his advocacy for small businesses and underserved communities [033f08ca]. McCoy, the Owner, President, and CEO of Circle City Broadcasting, will be recognized during the National Small Business Week in Washington, D.C. from April 28 to May 4, 2024 [033f08ca].
The SBA's Small Business Week Awards aim to celebrate outstanding small businesses across the country, with nominations for the awards closing on December 7, 2023 [5b199701]. This year’s awards ceremony will also take place in Washington, D.C., with winners from each state competing for the national title [5b199701].
Furthermore, nominations for the 2024 Business Excellence Awards presented by the Delta Chamber of Commerce are now open, recognizing outstanding business persons and organizations in Delta and Tsawwassen First Nation [91e7e92a]. The awards will be handed out in eight categories during the gala on October 18, 2024 [91e7e92a].
In a notable achievement, Gibsons Games has been awarded Family Business United’s Small Family Business of the Year Award 2024, showcasing the importance of family-run businesses in the economy [dace0e97]. Managing director Kate Gibson accepted the award on behalf of the company, which has been operating since 1919 and is now in its fourth generation [dace0e97].
Notably, in March 2024, Susan Borchert and Betsy Harrison were named the SBA New Hampshire Small Business Persons of the Year, further emphasizing the local impact of small businesses [04b17e21].