By Jeff Devine
MONTGOMERY— Alabama Governor Kay Ivey is calling on entrepreneurs, innovators, and local job creators to make their mark on the national stage by competing in the U.S. Small Business Administration’s (SBA) 2026 National Small Business Week Awards.
Fresh off proclaiming November 29 as Small Business Saturday in Alabama, Gov. Ivey said the state is ready to shine as the SBA begins accepting nominations for its annual awards, which will be presented next May in Washington, D.C.
“In an America First economy, Alabama’s small businesses are the ones setting the pace,” Gov. Ivey said. “We’ve got makers, builders, innovators, and risk-takers whose stories deserve to be told on a national stage. I want to see Alabama in the running and bringing home the win, because we’ve got the talent to do it. I encourage folks everywhere in our state to nominate their favorites and help Alabama take its rightful place at the top.”
Each year, the SBA selects one Small Business Person of the Year from every state and U.S. territory. Those winners then compete for the national title — considered one of the highest honors in American small business.
In addition to national categories such as exporting, federal procurement, and disaster recovery awards, Alabama’s SBA District Office will recognize several state-only honorees. Categories include:
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year: Recognizing outstanding veteran entrepreneurs operating successfully in Alabama for at least three years.
Women-Owned Business Person of the Year: Honoring individuals who have advanced women’s entrepreneurship in the state.
Small Business Manufacturer of the Year: Celebrating innovation, growth, and performance among Alabama manufacturers.
Rural-Owned Business of the Year: Highlighting exceptional businesses located in USDA-designated rural areas.
All nominations must be submitted electronically by 6a.m. CST on December 7, 2025 according to the SBA announcement.
National Small Business Week pays tribute to the country’s 36 million small businesses, which make up 99% of all U.S. companies and employ about half of the nation’s workforce. The 2026 celebration will be held May 3–9.
“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,” SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler said. “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.”
The SBA Alabama District Office will also host virtual one-hour training sessions to help businesses and nominators learn how to prepare strong submissions. These sessions will take place on December 3 and December 17 from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. CST.
For award details, nomination criteria, and required forms, visit the SBA’s official site at sba.gov/nsbw.
