Small businesses make significant contributions to the state’s economy, and they bring innovative products and services to the marketplace. They are an important source of employment and opportunity throughout the state. During National Small Business Week and throughout the year the Seattle District SBA Office recognize the impact made by outstanding entrepreneurs and small business owners. Help us recognize these entrepreneurs and those who support and champion small businesses by nominating candidates for our upcoming awards program.
“The determination and ingenuity of America’s workers and entrepreneurs are major contributors to the strength of the American economy” says Nancy Porzio, Seattle District Director. There are 27.5 million small businesses in America. Washington State is home to approximately 560,000 small businesses that are responsible for approximately 98 percent of all business activity. “Small business is big in Washington State”, she adds.
Any individual or organization may submit nominations. A company, owner, or business advocate can also self-nominate. Award categories include:
- Small Business Person of the Year
- Small Business Exporter of the Year
- SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year
- Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned Business of the Year
- Entrepreneurial Success Award
Small Business Champion Award recipients are individuals or organizations who have dedicated their professional skills or personal talents to supporting small businesses through advocacy and volunteer efforts. Each of the below awards has specific evaluation criteria. Nominees may or may not be small business owners. Categories include:
- Financial Services Champion of the Year
- Home-Based Business Champion of the Year
- Minority Small Business Champion of the Year
- Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year
- Women in Business Champion of the Year
The winner of the Washington State Small Business Person of the Year, along with Champion Award winners will be honored locally at the Washington State Awards Gala in the Spring 2011 and continue on to compete for national honors.
All nominations must be postmarked or hand delivered to the Seattle District, SBA Office no later than Monday, November 29, 2010. For a copy of the full nomination criteria, contact Carol Andersen, SBA, at 206-553-7315, carol.andersen@sba.gov. Downloadable nomination forms are also available electronically. Go to www.sba.gov/wa “under spotlight” .