Have you ever wanted to win a small business award? If so, there’s good news — opportunities for such accolades abound in 2025. While your local Chamber of Commerce’s recognition program is a great place to start, many other organizations offer prestigious honors that recognize the unique accomplishments of all different kinds of companies.
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An award for every business
Are you afraid your company can’t compete? This is a natural fear, and many small business owners feel the same way. Given the wide range of award programs available, however, these limiting beliefs are also probably mistaken.
If you could use a quick boost of confidence, then consider applying for a Stellar Business Award. Submitting your business for consideration is fast and easy. Filling out the online application only takes five minutes.
Plus, there is no specific timeline you need to adhere to — the committee of judges will consider nominees in the context of their own specialization and particular geographic area soon after they finish their application. This is unlike many other recognition programs, which follow a strict annual calendar with a limited time window to nominate your business.
Another great approach is finding a recognition program that offers categories relevant to your enterprise.
Find the right award categories
What kind of business do you have? How does your business make an outstanding contribution to your community? In what special way is your company exemplary? Answering these questions can help you find the right laurels for which to try. The innovative products, services, and initiatives you offer can connect you to the right appreciation programs for you.
For instance, the Stevie Awards offer 20 major categories for American businesses alone. Each of these major categories has multiple subcategories. For instance, in the major category of Achievement, businesses can earn recognition for their accomplishments in corporate social responsibility, customer satisfaction, diversity & inclusion, finance, growth, human resources, international expansion, product innovation, organization recovery, sales or revenue generation, science or technology, and technology innovation.
That’s just one example. Other major categories for Stevie Awards focus on apps, corporate communications, events, management, podcasts, publications, and many more.
Entrepreneur of the Year Awards
The Stevie Awards also offers many prizes for entrepreneurs and business leadership. Most executives have also heard of the prestigious Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. Yet, most business owners aren’t at the helm of a large business that could hope for international acclaim right from the beginning.
Don’t despair; these global tributes aren’t the only brass rings that founders can vie for. For instance, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) celebrates National Small Business Week (NSBW) every year to highlight the difference local companies make in Americans’ lives. During this special week, the SBA’s judges name multiple recipients of the Small Business Person of the Year Award from around the country. This is one way the SBA fulfills its mission of supporting small businesses in America.
In 2025, NSBW will take place from May 4 until May 10. While the window to apply for this year’s honors already closed in December 2024, put a reminder in your calendar now to apply in the fall of 2025 for the 2026 prizes.
Do you meet the key criteria? Check your eligibility
In addition, ask yourself how you might differ from other founders and entrepreneurs. There are awards specifically for veteran-owned small businesses, for instance. Others highlight the expertise and resilience of woman-owned or minority-owned businesses. If you meet the eligibility requirements for a trophy like this, don’t hesitate to fill out the nomination form.
When applying for awards, make sure to follow best practices. Check the requirements for each category to ensure the award recognizes ventures like yours and that you are eligible before applying. Compliance with the criteria is often necessary to avoid disqualification.
While this might seem like a lot of work, the effort is worth it, as winning has many benefits.
Be a winner: Nominate your company for a small business award 2025
When your business earns a certificate, medallion, or trophy, it distinguishes you from the rest of the field. This allows you to receive acknowledgment and approval from your industry peers as the best business of your kind.
When an independent group announces your win, it can also launch a new wave of positive transformation for your business. The positive PR such achievements generate can enhance your business image, attracting new customers, business partners, and even vendors.
Even if you don’t win, your involvement and participation in these programs can boost your company’s regional profile. Many of these organizations also offer networking opportunities with other candidates and previous winners. This can open the door for possible future partnerships.
Only nominees become recipients!
The only way to win one of these certifications is to seize the initiative and throw your hat in the ring. You deserve to be recognized for the leadership you have demonstrated in your community and the exceptional commitment you’ve made to your customers and employees. While the result of these competitions is never guaranteed, you can’t win if you never try.
Give you and your team a vote of confidence! The only way to become a nominated business is by submitting your application. Get started today and claim your small business award in 2025!
