Nominations Sought for 2016 National Small Business Week Awards

BOSTON — Every year since 1963, the U.S. president has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small-business owners.

As part of the next National Small Business Week (May 1-6, 2016), the U.S. Small Business Administration takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small-business owners, and others from all 50 states and U.S. territories. Every day, they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness.

“Help us identify the job creators, risk takers, and community builders who deserve public recognition for being small business champions,” said Massachusetts District Director Robert Nelson. “This is an opportunity for a banker, a chamber of commerce, a community organization, or even an individual to promote a business, a client, or even an employee that is having success.”

The Massachusetts District Office will recognize honorees in the following categories: 2016 National Small Business Person of the Year, Exporter of the Year, Jeffrey Butland Family-owned Business Award, Women-owned Small Business Award, Veteran-owned Small Business Award, Minority-owned Small Business Award, Microenterprise of the Year, Manufacturer of the Year, and Financial Services Champion.

The deadline for submitting nominations is Jan. 11. The nomination form and eligibility guidelines are available at www.sba.gov/ma.