The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) extended the 2026 National Small Business Week awards nominations deadline to 2 p.m. ET on Dec. 22.
National Small Business Week recognizes the contributions of America’s 36 million small businesses – which make up 99% of all businesses in America, create two out of every three new jobs, and employ about half of America’s workforce.
The SBA defines small businesses generally as firms with fewer than 500 employees. There are 1.1 million small businesses in New Jersey, representing 99.7% of New Jersey businesses. They employ 1.9 million people. The sectors with the most small businesses in New Jersey are professional, scientific and technical services; transportation and warehousing; and real estate and rental and leasing.
National Small Business Week will take place May 3-9, 2026. National awards will be presented during this week at a ceremony in Washington, D.C. A business owner from each of the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and Guam will be selected for State Small Business Person of the Year awards. State award winners will compete for the 2026 National Small Business Person of the Year title, SBA’s signature award.
“National Small Business Week recognizes the best of the best from Main Street, some of the most successful or growing small businesses out there. But the SBA needs to hear from you; if you’re an entrepreneur creating jobs, nominate yourself,” said SBA Atlantic Regional Administrator Matt Coleman, who oversees the federal agency’s operations throughout New York, New Jersey, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.
“If you know of a small business owner who’s utilized SBA products and services at any time, from loans to counseling, nominate them. This helps us cast a wide net in recognizing those job creators who keep our local downtowns and communities thriving.”
To nominate a small business in your area, download related forms, and to view criteria, and guidelines and the full list of awards, visit sba.gov/nsbw.
