SBA Opens 2027 Small Business Awards Nominations

Connecticut entrepreneurs, manufacturers, innovators, and small business leaders have an opportunity to earn statewide and national recognition. 

The U.S. Small Business Administration is accepting nominations for its 2027 National Small Business Week awards through December 7.  

The awards honor small businesses and entrepreneurs making an impact in their communities and industries.  

One Connecticut business owner will be named the state’s small business person of the year and will advance to compete for the SBA’s national award.  

The SBA is also accepting nominations for: 

• Small Business Manufacturer of the Year 
• Small Business Exporter of the Year 
• Veteran Small Business of the Year 
• Family-Owned Small Business of the Year 
• Microenterprise of the Year 
• Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year 
• Young Entrepreneur of the Year  

Celebrating Small Business 

CBIA partners with the SBA Connecticut District Office each year to celebrate the state’s award recipients during National Small Business Week.  

Whether they’re creating jobs, developing new products, expanding into new markets, or strengthening their local communities, Connecticut’s small businesses continue to play a vital role in the state’s economy.  

The awards provide an opportunity to recognize those achievements and share their stories. 

Small business owners may nominate themselves or be nominated by a third party.  

Businesses and organizations who interested in nominating a small business can submit an application through the SBA’s website.  

Nominations are due by 3 pm Dec. 7, 2026.