MGM Small Business Awards '26
Montgomery's 2nd Annual Small Business Awards · Ceremony: August 1, 2026
Nominations are closed and our panel is selecting this year's honorees. Now it's time to celebrate. Join us for the inaugural ceremony recognizing the entrepreneurs, innovators, and community builders who power Montgomery's local economy.
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.
Winners announced live. Time and venue to be announced — RSVP to stay updated.
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.
Award Applications Closes June 25th
Celebrating the enduring passion and resilience of micro teams delivering meaningful impact with lean operations.
Honoring dynamic small teams that consistently punch above their weight, driving results through creativity and focus.
Recognizing growth-minded businesses building strong foundations and contributing steadily to their industries.
Showcasing high-performing businesses leading with innovation, consistency, and organizational strength.
Celebrating larger small businesses whose scale amplifies their ability to lead, influence, and elevate the broader business community.
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.
Honors a business that creates measurable community change through service, philanthropy, partnerships, or mission-aligned work. Consistency and authenticity matter most.
Celebrates rising stars showing innovation, momentum, and a strong foundation for long-term success. Bold vision and rapid progress set these businesses apart.
Recognizes businesses that have stood the test of time — demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and consistent service to customers and the community across decades.
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.
Recognizes a bank, credit union, or CDFI that actively supports small business success through strong outreach, inclusive lending, and tailored solutions for entrepreneurs.
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)
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).
Celebrate With US
Join us August 1st at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts for the 2026 Small Business Awards as we celebrate the business that keep Montgomery moving forward!