MGM Small Business Awards '26
Montgomery's 2nd Annual Small Business Awards · Ceremony: August 1, 2026
Recognizing the entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders who power Montgomery's local economy. Nominations open May 12th and close June 22nd. The ceremony is August 1, 2026.
Montgomery's Small Business Awards
The MGM Small Business Awards is Montgomery's signature event recognizing the entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders who drive our local economy. Presented by Access Montgomery, SBOSS Montgomery, and the Montgomery County Commission, this celebration highlights the resilience, creativity, and leadership of Montgomery's small business community.
Now in its second year, the MGM Small Business Awards has already established itself as the city's defining moment for small business recognition. Thirteen award categories span every size, sector, and stage of business — so whether you're a solopreneur two years in or a legacy operation that's been here for decades, there's a place for you in this room.
Nominations are open to the public. Businesses are encouraged to self-nominate. Finalists are selected by a judging panel of business owners and economic development professionals from across the country.
Nominations open May 12 and close June 22, 2026. The ceremony will be held in August 1, 2026 at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. Nominate early and complete your application before the window closes.
May 12 – June 22, 2026. Nominations open May 12. Review the categories below and submit before the window closes.
Business of the Year (5 size tiers) plus 8 special recognition categories covering innovation, community impact, legacy, minority ownership, tech, and more.
Anyone can nominate a business. Self-nominations are encouraged. Complete the form and the business owner receives instructions to submit their full application.
Any business located in the City or County of Montgomery holding a valid business license with fewer than 500 W-2 employees.
Key Dates
Stay ahead of every milestone. Nominations open May 12 and close June 22 — the ceremony follows in August 2026.
1 Museum Dr, Montgomery, AL 36117
How It Works
The process is simple. A nomination starts the journey — then the business takes it from there with their full application.
A community member nominates a business — or a business owner self-nominates — using the nomination form. Either way, it starts with that first step.
Once a nomination is received, the nominated business gets an email with direct instructions and a link to complete their full award application.
Didn't receive the email or need the link again? The application portal is available directly on this page. Find your category below and apply starting May 12.
Who Is Eligible?
To be eligible for nomination and consideration, businesses must meet all of the following criteria. Select categories have additional ownership requirements noted in the category description.
Business must be located in the City of Montgomery or Montgomery County.
Must hold a current business license from the City of Montgomery, Town of Pike Road, or Montgomery County.
Must employ fewer than 500 W-2 employees. 1099 contractors are not included in this count.
Certain categories (Minority-Owned, Young Professional, Legacy) have additional ownership or tenure requirements outlined in each category description.
Businesses may apply to multiple categories but can only be selected as a winner in one.
Finalists are selected by a panel of business owners and economic development professionals from across the country.
How to Apply
Once a nomination is submitted, the nominated business receives an email with instructions to complete their full award application. Each category has its own form — review the categories carefully, complete the questions, and submit your video before the June 22 deadline. You may apply to multiple categories, but can only be selected as a winner in one.
Review the 13 award categories below and confirm which best align with your business, history, and mission. You may apply to more than one.
Each category has its own form. Answer the category-specific questions and upload a 2–3 minute video in your own words. You may save and return later.
Submit before the June 22 deadline. Finalists will be notified ahead of the August 2026 ceremony. Winners are announced at the event.
Central Application Portal
Access all category applications in one place. Applications available starting May 12, 2026.
Award Categories
Review each category carefully. Businesses may apply to multiple categories but can only be selected as a winner in one. Nominations open May 12th — close June 22nd.
Celebrating the enduring passion and resilience of micro teams delivering meaningful impact with lean operations.
Apply Now →Honoring dynamic small teams that consistently punch above their weight, driving results through creativity and focus.
Apply Now →Recognizing growth-minded businesses building strong foundations and contributing steadily to their industries.
Apply Now →Showcasing high-performing businesses leading with innovation, consistency, and organizational strength.
Apply Now →Celebrating larger small businesses whose scale amplifies their ability to lead, influence, and elevate the broader business community.
Apply Now →Recognizes a business that has transformed its operations, service, or industry through a unique product, service, or process. Creativity, adaptability, and forward-thinking strategies are key.
Apply Now →Honors a business that creates measurable community change through service, philanthropy, partnerships, or mission-aligned work. Consistency and authenticity matter most.
Apply Now →Celebrates rising stars showing innovation, momentum, and a strong foundation for long-term success. Bold vision and rapid progress set these businesses apart.
Apply Now →Recognizes businesses that have stood the test of time — demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and consistent service to customers and the community across decades.
Apply Now →Honors a business driving innovation through technology — solving real-world problems and contributing to the growth of the digital economy through products, platforms, or services.
Apply Now →Recognizes a bank, credit union, or CDFI that actively supports small business success through strong outreach, inclusive lending, and tailored solutions for entrepreneurs.
Apply Now →Recognizes outstanding businesses demonstrating strong performance, leadership, and community or industry impact. Business must be at least 51% owned and controlled by a qualifying individual.
Qualifying ownership: Black or African American · Hispanic or Latino · Native American or Alaska Native · Asian American · Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander · Women (any race or ethnicity)
Apply Now →Spotlights a business owned and led by an entrepreneur age 40 or younger who brings fresh perspectives, bold leadership, and a strong vision to Montgomery's business landscape.
Business must be at least 51% owned and led by a qualifying young professional (age 40 or under at time of application).
Apply Now →
Know a Business That Deserves Recognition?
Nominations open May 12 and close June 22. The ceremony is August 1, 2026. Don't let a deserving business miss their moment — nominate today.