The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced the winners of the 2026 National Small Business Week Awards on Tuesday, recognizing outstanding small business owners from across the nation. The awards celebrate the contributions and achievements of small businesses in fostering economic growth and innovation.

“These small business owners are the backbone of our economy, driving job creation and entrepreneurship,” said SBA Administrator Isabella Casillas Guzman. “Their resilience and creativity are commendable, especially in today’s ever-changing economic landscape.”

The awards include categories such as Small Business Person of the Year, Family-Owned Small Business, and Small Business Exporter of the Year. Winners were selected based on their dedication to their communities, business growth, and overall impact on the economy.

Among the honorees, Maria Lopez of New York was recognized as the Small Business Person of the Year for her innovative approach in the tech industry, while David Chen of California received the Family-Owned Small Business Award for his longstanding commitment to quality and customer service. The Small Business Exporter of the Year was awarded to GreenTech Innovations, which has significantly increased its international sales.

Background on National Small Business Week

National Small Business Week is a celebration of small businesses in the United States, initiated by the SBA. The event highlights the vital role small businesses play in the economy and offers various resources and support to entrepreneurs. This year’s awards were presented during a week-long series of events aimed at promoting small business growth across the country.

Source: news source