2012 Washington State Small Business Award Competition Begins

SBA Seeks Nominations - deadline November 28th

                                                                                

It’s no secret small businesses make significant contributions to the state's economy and they bring innovative products and services to the marketplace. They are an important source of employment and opportunity throughout the state. Seattle District SBA Office wants to recognize these entrepreneurs and those who support and champion small businesses. Help us by nominating candidates for our upcoming awards program. Last year, two of our local winners received National awards and represented Washington state during National Small Business Week ceremonies in Washington DC.

“The determination and ingenuity of America’s workers and entrepreneurs are major contributors to the strength of the American economy” says Nancy Porzio, Seattle District Director. “Over 99% of all employer firms are small businesses, employ 51% of all people and have generated over two-thirds of new jobs in the past decade. Washington State is home to approximately 550,000 small businesses and make up 98% of the state’s employers. Small business is BIG in Washington State”, she adds. 

Any individual or organization may submit nominations. A company, owner, or business advocate can also self-nominate. Award categories include:

·Small Business Person of the Year

·Small Business Exporter of the Year

·SBA Young Entrepreneur of the Year

·Jeffrey Butland Family-Owned Business of the Year

·Entrepreneurial Success Award

Small Business Champion Award recipients are individuals or organizations who have dedicated their professional skills or personal talents to supporting small businesses through advocacy and volunteer efforts. Nominees may or may not be small business owners. Categories include:

·Financial Services Champion of the Year

·Home-Based Business Champion of the Year

·Minority Small Business Champion of the Year

·Veteran Small Business Champion of the Year

·Women in Business Champion of the Year

The winner of the Washington State Small Business Person of the Year, along with other state winners will be honored locally at the Washington State Awards Gala in the Spring 2012 and continue on to compete for national honors.

All nominations must be received no later than Monday, November 28, 2011. For a copy of the full nomination criteria, contact Carol Andersen, SBA, at 206-553-7315, carol.andersen@sba.gov. Downloadable nomination forms are also available electronically. Go to http://www.sba.gov/about-offices-content/2/3157/resources/6635 # #