DOTHAN,
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey is rallying residents to put a spotlight on the state’s standout small businesses as the U.S. Small Business Administration begins accepting nominations for the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards.
This announcement follows her recent proclamation recognizing Saturday, Nov. 29, as “Small Business Saturday” across the state — an effort to boost awareness and celebrate local entrepreneurs.
Governor Ivey says Alabama’s business owners have what it takes to be recognized on a national level.
“Alabama is full of innovators and hardworking folks who take risks every day to grow their dreams,” Ivey said. “We want the nation to know what our businesses are achieving here at home. I encourage everyone to nominate the entrepreneurs who are making a real impact.”
Award categories include:
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Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year
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Women-Owned Small Business Person of the Year
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Small Business Manufacturer of the Year
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Rural-Owned Business of the Year
Nominations must be submitted online no later than 1 p.m. CT on December 22, 2025.
SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler emphasized that National Small Business Week is a chance to recognize the backbone of the nation’s economy — the 36 million businesses operating in communities big and small.
“These companies are the engine that keeps America moving forward,” Loeffler noted. “They provide jobs, invest in neighborhoods and strengthen our economic foundation.”
National Small Business Week is scheduled for May 3–9, 2026.
To help with the nomination process, the SBA Alabama District Office will host virtual informational workshops on December 3 and December 17 from 11 a.m. to noon CT.
Additional details, nomination forms and eligibility guidelines can be found at sba.gov/nsbw.
Winners from Alabama and other states will advance to compete for the national title of Small Business Person of the Year, with further opportunities to be honored in categories such as exporting, disaster response, procurement and Alabama-specific recognitions.
