The SBA Vermont District Office is currently welcoming nominations for the prestigious 2023 Small Business Awards. Over the years, Vermont has seen remarkable winners like Ben and Jerry’s, Mamava, Blake Hill Preserves, and Keene Perspectives. These awards are a testament to the accomplishments of SBA-assisted small businesses and their significant contributions to Vermont’s economy and communities.
Award Categories and Eligibility
1. Small Business Person of the Year
Criteria: Individual or partners who own a small business, demonstrating a three-year track record of increased sales, profits, and employee growth. The business must have received Small Business Administration assistance.
2. Exporting Small Business of the Year
Criteria: Small businesses that have experienced sales, profit, and/or employee growth due to exporting and have been in business for at least three years.
3. Family-Owned Small Business of the Year
Criteria: Small businesses that are family-owned for a minimum of 15 years, with ownership transitioned to another generation.
4. Veteran-Owned Small Business of the Year
Criteria: Small businesses that are at least 51% owned by a U.S. armed forces veteran, with a three-year business history.
5. Woman-Owned Small Business of the Year
Criteria: Small businesses that are at least 51% owned by a woman, having operated successfully for at least three years.
6. Minority-Owned Small Business of the Year
Criteria: Small businesses that are at least 51% owned by an ethnic minority, demonstrating a three-year business history.
7. Young Entrepreneur of the Year
Criteria: Individual or partners under 30 years old, who own a small business that has been operating for three years.
8. Microenterprise of the Year
Criteria: Individual or partners who own a microenterprise with five or fewer employees, have received SBA assistance, and have been in business for three years.
9. Manufacturer of the Year
Criteria: Individual or partners who own a manufacturing business that has been in operation for three years.
10. Financial Services Champion of the Year
Criteria: Individual or partners who have made a significant impact on small businesses by advocating for increased accessibility and usefulness of accounting or financial services.
Nomination Process
To nominate a deserving Vermont small business, kindly email the business name, owner’s name, and the specific award category you are nominating the company for to darcy.carter@sba.gov. The SBA Vermont District Office will promptly follow up with the nominated business. Additionally, businesses have the option to self-nominate.
