Many people imagine getting that phone call they’ve always dreamed of: a member of the awards committee is on the other end to say that their business has just received a prestigious small business award.

By nominating one’s small business in 2025, entrepreneurs and business leaders can make that dream a reality. Moreover, there are benefits to applying to such award programs, even for those who don’t end up as the ultimate victor.

Here’s a free guide explaining everything applicants need to know to win this year’s small business award.

Why Apply For A Small Business Award?

Small business owners should consider submitting themselves and their employees for these honors because winning brings many benefits. Earning one of these prizes can launch a business and its leaders to the forefront of the small business community. It’s a great way to spotlight them and their team’s achievements as a successful business.

Accomplishments like these also impress prospective new customers. Having a medallion or certification on a company’s website can win over today’s skeptical consumers, and displaying a trophy or certificate in a business’s front window has much the same effect. Finalists and honorees instantly gain credibility, making people more likely to purchase goods or services from them.

But that’s not the only reason to apply. Many appreciation programs also contain a networking component that connects candidates, opening up new possibilities for collaboration and business partnerships. Sometimes, they even host an awards ceremony where applicants can gather with other business leaders. What better way to get expert tips than to pick the brains of previous winners?

Gain Recognition, Credibility, and Visibility as the Best Small Business In A Local Community

While every founder and CEO might dream of being lauded as the best in the U.S., the right place to begin is usually in one’s neighborhood. Many municipalities have chambers of commerce that sponsor recognition programs for area businesses, so if business owners don’t belong to this organization already, they should do a quick Google search on the larger towns and cities in their vicinity and check out their websites. Many will have an annual awards program to which businesses and their leadership teams can apply.

Similarly, if one knows of a small business expo in their community, participating with a booth can greatly elevate one’s enterprise to the community’s awareness. These events often give out ribbons and awards of their own. Sometimes, an independent committee decides the recipients, which the public’s votes could determine.

In addition, the Small Business Administration (SBA) recognizes entrepreneurs in all 50 states who are making a difference in their industries as part of their National Small Business Week, which happens once a year. This is part of the agency’s mission to boost the American economy.

This year, National Small Business Week will take place in May. However, submissions for awards closed in 2024, so mark those calendars now to apply for the 2026 awards when applications open again in the fall.

Understanding Award Categories

Many organizations offer awards that recognize and celebrate the best of the best in several (if not dozens of) categories. 

Take the Stevie Awards, for example. This renowned organization offers awards for every part of the world, and its American Business Awards, in particular, showcase America’s best businesses across the country. There are scads of categories to choose from. Nearly every aspect of business is covered, from entrepreneurship, marketing, and management to customer service, new product design, and technological innovation.

Business leaders should ask themselves where their team excels at deciding which specific accolades to pursue. Then, they should review the list of possible “Stevies” to determine which option would be the best fit. 

Unfortunately, this organization recently closed its submission window for 2025. However, it will reopen in the fall, so use this time to prepare an application for next year.

Don’t want to wait so long? The good news is that an up-and-coming small business awards program accepts new candidates all year round.

Seize a 2025 Nomination and Become a Winner

The Stellar Business Awards have recently gained a lot of buzz as a quick way to get businesses recognized in their local areas. This organization’s panel of judges reviews files as they come in and announces awards when their vetting process is complete, not according to a specific calendar or timeline, which means that nominations for 2025 are currently open!

The Stellar Business Awards’ online portal also makes applying for small business awards easy — answering the questions takes a mere five minutes.

These awards recognize various entrepreneurial efforts, from B2B businesses and service providers to B2C boutiques, restaurants, hotels, and more. Winners receive recognition with an online announcement.

However, this program only selects one winner for each specific geographic locality and particular business specialization.

Nominate a Business Today, Celebrate Tomorrow

Is there a small business with an exemplary team or value proposition? How does its founder or leader stand out as a small business person?

Chances are that there’s a local or online awards program that seeks to acknowledge and acclaim enterprises like these. Now is the time to find them! 

Disclaimer: The information in this guide is intended for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the content, specific award programs, eligibility criteria, and deadlines may vary. Business owners are encouraged to verify all details with the relevant award bodies or organizations before applying.

Published by Mark V.