National Small Business Week 2026: 10 Powerful Reasons to Celebrate Entrepreneurs


August 19th, 2025

National Small Business Week

National Small Business Week 2026

Nominate a Business Here: U.S. Small Business Administration – National Small Business Week

National Small Business Week 2026 is more than a date on the calendar. It is a movement. For more than 60 years, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) has hosted this nationwide celebration to honor the entrepreneurs who power our economy. From May 3–9, 2026, America will shine a spotlight on small business owners—the dreamers, innovators, and job creators who keep our communities thriving.

This week-long recognition is not just about applause. It is about education, networking, and storytelling. Small business owners across all 50 states and U.S. territories will find opportunities to connect, learn, and elevate their work. The SBA and its partners are making sure that every business—whether a local bakery, a growing tech startup, or a family-run shop—has a seat at the table.

Why National Small Business Week Matters

Small businesses fuel the American economy. According to the SBA, they make up 99.9% of all U.S. businesses and employ nearly half of the private workforce. These numbers reveal a truth we all know: Main Street matters. Without small business owners, our neighborhoods lose their character, our workforce loses jobs, and our economy loses resilience.

National Small Business Week 2026 reminds us of this truth. It amplifies the role of business owners in creating opportunity. It tells their stories of late nights, calculated risks, and bold visions. And most importantly, it gives recognition where it is due.

The 2026 Small Business Week Awards

At the heart of National Small Business Week 2026 are the prestigious SBA awards. These awards celebrate entrepreneurs who have achieved remarkable success and contributed to their communities. Categories include:

  • Small Business Person of the Year – the top honor recognizing outstanding leadership and growth.

  • Other National Awards – spotlighting exporters, federal contractors, and community champions.

Award winners receive recognition in Washington, D.C., during a two-day event filled with networking and educational sessions. Winners also enjoy national media exposure, a marketing boost, and of course, a trophy that symbolizes excellence.

Nominations for 2026 are open now. Entrepreneurs can put their names forward—or be nominated by others—showcasing stories of perseverance and impact.

The Virtual Summit Experience

In 2025, the SBA and SCORE hosted a two-day Virtual Summit, drawing thousands of attendees from across the nation. Sessions included expert-led workshops on funding, marketing, and technology adoption.

The 2026 version promises to build on that momentum. Expect dynamic speakers, practical insights, and real-world tools to help businesses adapt in an ever-changing marketplace. Virtual access removes barriers, ensuring that even the smallest companies can gain knowledge without leaving their office or shop floor.

Learning From the Past

National Small Business Week has a long history of spotlighting success. Past winners have ranged from women-led startups to multi-generational family businesses. Video highlights from earlier years show stories of resilience during crises, creativity in competitive markets, and determination in the face of uncertainty.

These stories remind us that every success today began as a risk yesterday. By revisiting them, entrepreneurs gain courage to take their own next step.

Networking and Media Opportunities

Award winners and summit participants enjoy more than recognition. They gain access to networks that can transform their business. From social media features on SBA’s platforms reaching over 1 million small business owners, to national press coverage, the opportunities are immense.

For winners, SBA also provides a media toolkit. This resource helps honorees turn recognition into marketing campaigns, news stories, and partnerships. For small business owners, this exposure can spark growth that might otherwise take years.

Local Connections Across America

While national celebrations get the headlines, local SBA district offices play a vital role in National Small Business Week 2026. Winners may be invited to local ceremonies, where their communities cheer them on.

These grassroots events remind us that while the economy is national, its impact is local. Each shop on a corner, each service provider on a side street, contributes to the bigger picture. That local pride is part of what makes National Small Business Week special.

The Role of Entrepreneurs as Innovators

Small business owners are not just participants in the economy. They are innovators and they spot gaps in the market and move quickly to fill them. They take risks that larger corporations often avoid.

During National Small Business Week 2026, these qualities will be front and center. From tech founders designing sustainable solutions to café owners building community spaces, the entrepreneurial spirit shines through. That spirit is exactly why this week exists.

How to Get Involved in National Small Business Week 2026

Entrepreneurs and supporters can engage in several ways:

  • Submit a nomination for the Small Business Week Awards.

  • Attend the 2026 Virtual Summit.

  • Join local events hosted by SBA district offices.

  • Share stories of favorite businesses on social media using #SmallBusinessWeek.

Participation is not limited to business owners. Community members, customers, and local leaders can all play a role in celebrating the people who make small business possible.

Why Now is the Time to Celebrate Small Businesses

America’s small businesses are entering 2026 in a dynamic climate. Technology is reshaping industries, new markets are opening, and entrepreneurs are finding fresh ways to compete. At the same time, challenges like inflation, workforce shortages, and global competition remain real.

National Small Business Week 2026 provides a moment to pause and reflect—but also to look ahead. It tells us that while challenges exist, so does resilience. The entrepreneurs who make up the backbone of this nation are ready to meet the future head-on.

Conclusion

National Small Business Week 2026 is not just a celebration. It is a reminder that America’s strength rests on the shoulders of small business owners. From May 3–9, we will honor their work, share their stories, and equip them with tools to grow stronger.

If you are an entrepreneur, this is your time. If you are a supporter, this is your chance to give recognition. National Small Business Week 2026 proves once again that when small businesses succeed, America succeeds.

FAQs

What is National Small Business Week 2026?
It is a week-long celebration, hosted by the SBA, recognizing small businesses nationwide from May 3–9, 2026.

Who organizes National Small Business Week?
The U.S. Small Business Administration, along with partners like SCORE, organizes the events, awards, and summit.

How can entrepreneurs participate?
They can submit award nominations, attend the virtual summit, join local SBA events, and engage on social media.

What are the benefits of winning a Small Business Week Award?
Winners receive national recognition, networking opportunities, media exposure, and a trophy symbolizing their achievement.

Is the Virtual Summit free?
Yes, the SBA Virtual Summit is free to attend and offers sessions designed to help businesses learn and grow.

Why is National Small Business Week important?
It highlights the role of entrepreneurs in job creation, innovation, and community building while offering resources and recognition.

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