Hampton Roads is home to an abundance of top notch small businesses, young entrepreneurs, flourishing startups and small business leaders working every day to strengthen our small business community.

Recognize your favorite small business, start up or small business leader.

• Nominate them today for a Small Business of the Year Award.

• Review the Award Criteria

Deadline for all nominations is January 10, 2020

Application deadline for all nominees is February 3, 2020

Fill out the form below to nominate a business for one of the following awards:

• Small Business of the Year Award

• Entrepreneur of the Year Award

• Leadership Award

• Top to Watch

2020 Award Nominations Form

Nominations for the 2019 Small Business of the Year Award will be open on November 18, 2018.  Please contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

Award Requirements:

Small Business of the Year Award

• Fewer than 250 employees

• Gross revenues of less than $10 million in 2019

• In business for more than 3 years

• Eligible applicants will be judged on:

• Financial performance and business history

• Staff training and motivation

• Community involvement

• Customer service

• Business plan or strategies and goals

Small Business of the Year Award  

Leadership Award

The Leadership Award is presented to an individual demonstrating leadership, impact on workplace culture, community service and involvement, professional achievement, and perseverance. Any individual may nominate a leader for this award. The individual nominating must complete the leadership award application.

Entrepreneur of the Year Award

The Entrepreneur of the Year Award is presented to a standout entrepreneur in the Hampton Roads region. The award recognizes entrepreneurs who have taken the risk of starting and running their own business in Hampton Roads. Candidates for this award will be judged on business strategies, financial success, and community involvement.

Top to Watch

The criteria is the same as the Small Business of the Year award, however this award is for those outstanding young businesses who have been in operation less than three years.  

Top to Watch Award  

Deadline for all nominations is January 10, 2020

Application deadline for all nominees is February 3, 2020