{"id":334,"date":"2025-04-29T13:41:55","date_gmt":"2025-04-29T18:41:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/?page_id=334"},"modified":"2026-07-08T09:25:00","modified_gmt":"2026-07-08T14:25:00","slug":"smallbusinessawards","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/smallbusinessawards\/","title":{"rendered":"Small Business Awards"},"content":{"rendered":"\t\t<div data-elementor-type=\"wp-page\" data-elementor-id=\"334\" class=\"elementor elementor-334\" data-elementor-post-type=\"page\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-a3484a9 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-parent\" data-id=\"a3484a9\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-5a360e1 e-con-full e-flex e-con e-child\" data-id=\"5a360e1\" data-element_type=\"container\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-element elementor-element-1f8562e elementor-widget elementor-widget-html\" data-id=\"1f8562e\" data-element_type=\"widget\" data-widget_type=\"html.default\">\n\t\t\t\t<div class=\"elementor-widget-container\">\n\t\t\t\t\t<!-- ============================================================\r\n     MGM SMALL BUSINESS AWARDS '26 \u2014 v4\r\n     Hero restructured: 2-column grid (text left | photo right)\r\n     Photo placeholder added above ceremony stat boxes.\r\n     Elementor HTML widget. Paste into the awards page.\r\n     Bebas Neue (headings) + Montserrat (body)\r\n     Navy #003479 \/ Gold #C8A028\r\n     Applications Open: May 12, 2026 | Ceremony: August 2026\r\n============================================================ -->\r\n<link rel=\"preconnect\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\">\r\n<link rel=\"preconnect\" href=\"https:\/\/fonts.gstatic.com\" crossorigin>\r\n<link href=\"https:\/\/fonts.googleapis.com\/css2?family=Bebas+Neue&family=Montserrat:wght@400;500;600;700&display=swap\" rel=\"stylesheet\">\r\n<style>\r\n.sba-page *, .sba-page *::before, .sba-page *::after {\r\n  box-sizing: border-box; margin: 0; padding: 0;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page {\r\n  --navy:  #003479;\r\n  --navy2: #001f50;\r\n  --navy3: #1E3060;\r\n  --gold:  #C8A028;\r\n  --gold2: #e8c040;\r\n  --white: #ffffff;\r\n  --off:   #f4f6fa;\r\n  --gray:  #555555;\r\n  --lgray: #e0e6f0;\r\n  --lnavy: #E8EEF8;\r\n  font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif;\r\n  color: #222;\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  overflow-x: hidden;\r\n}\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 TYPOGRAPHY \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .hd { font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif; text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 2px; line-height: 1.0; }\r\n.sba-page .eyebrow { font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 4px; text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--gold); display: block; margin-bottom: 10px; font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif; }\r\n.sba-page p { font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif; font-size: 15px; line-height: 1.75; color: var(--gray); }\r\n.sba-page .wrap { max-width: 1100px; margin: 0 auto; padding: 0 32px; }\r\n.sba-page section { width: 100%; }\r\n.sba-page .gold-rule { height: 4px; background: var(--gold); }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 AWARDS LOGO \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .awards-logo-wrap {\r\n  text-align: center;\r\n  margin-bottom: 28px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .awards-logo-wrap img {\r\n  max-width: 480px;\r\n  width: 90%;\r\n  height: auto;\r\n  display: inline-block;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 HERO \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero {\r\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, var(--navy2) 0%, var(--navy) 55%, #004aa0 100%);\r\n  padding: 60px 32px 70px;\r\n  position: relative;\r\n  overflow: hidden;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero::before {\r\n  content: '';\r\n  position: absolute; inset: 0;\r\n  background: radial-gradient(ellipse at 75% 25%, rgba(200,160,40,0.14) 0%, transparent 55%),\r\n              radial-gradient(ellipse at 15% 85%, rgba(0,74,160,0.3) 0%, transparent 50%);\r\n  pointer-events: none;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero-inner {\r\n  position: relative;\r\n  z-index: 1;\r\n  max-width: 1200px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 HERO TWO-COLUMN GRID \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero-content-wrapper {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;\r\n  gap: 50px;\r\n  align-items: start;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero-left { \/* left text column \u2014 no extra styles needed *\/ }\r\n.sba-page .hero-right {\r\n  display: flex;\r\n  align-items: stretch;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 HERO BADGE \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero-badge {\r\n  display: inline-block;\r\n  background: var(--gold);\r\n  color: var(--navy);\r\n  font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 9px; font-weight: 800;\r\n  letter-spacing: 4px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  padding: 6px 20px; margin-bottom: 24px;\r\n  clip-path: polygon(8px 0%,100% 0%,calc(100% - 8px) 100%,0% 100%);\r\n}\r\n\/* Full-width variant \u2014 spans above both hero columns *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero-badge-full {\r\n  display: block;\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  clip-path: none;\r\n  text-align: center;\r\n  padding: 9px 32px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 32px;\r\n  letter-spacing: 5px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero h1 {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: clamp(48px, 7vw, 88px);\r\n  line-height: 0.92; color: var(--white);\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 3px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 6px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero h1 em { color: var(--gold); font-style: normal; display: block; }\r\n.sba-page .hero-sub {\r\n  font-size: 14px; font-weight: 600;\r\n  color: rgba(255,255,255,0.65);\r\n  letter-spacing: 3px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  margin: 18px 0 16px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero-sub strong { color: var(--gold); }\r\n.sba-page .hero-note {\r\n  font-size: 15px;\r\n  color: rgba(255,255,255,0.55);\r\n  margin-bottom: 28px;\r\n  line-height: 1.65;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 MAIN HERO PHOTO (RIGHT COLUMN) \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero-photo-main {\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  min-height: 480px;\r\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, rgba(255,255,255,0.08) 0%, rgba(255,255,255,0.04) 100%);\r\n  border-radius: 6px;\r\n  border: 2px dashed rgba(200,160,40,0.4);\r\n  display: flex;\r\n  flex-direction: column;\r\n  align-items: center;\r\n  justify-content: center;\r\n  color: rgba(255,255,255,0.5);\r\n  font-size: 14px;\r\n  font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif;\r\n  text-align: center;\r\n  padding: 24px;\r\n  gap: 10px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero-photo-main .ph-icon {\r\n  font-size: 36px;\r\n  opacity: 0.35;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero-photo-main img {\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  height: 100%;\r\n  object-fit: cover;\r\n  border-radius: 4px;\r\n  display: none; \/* show by removing this once image is added *\/\r\n}\r\n\/* has-image: strip frame, show full image uncropped *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero-photo-main.has-image {\r\n  background: none;\r\n  border: none;\r\n  padding: 0;\r\n  min-height: 0;\r\n  display: block;\r\n  border-radius: 6px;\r\n  overflow: hidden;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .hero-photo-main.has-image img {\r\n  display: block;\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  height: auto;\r\n  object-fit: unset;\r\n  border-radius: 6px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 HERO BOTTOM BAR \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero-bottom {\r\n  margin-top: 32px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* Ceremony badge \u2014 full-width, evenly spread *\/\r\n.sba-page .ceremony-badge {\r\n  display: flex;\r\n  align-items: center;\r\n  justify-content: space-between;\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  background: rgba(255,255,255,0.08);\r\n  border: 1px solid rgba(200,160,40,0.4);\r\n  padding: 16px 28px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 20px;\r\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\r\n  gap: 0;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .ceremony-badge .cb-item {\r\n  text-align: center;\r\n  flex: 1;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .ceremony-badge .cb-label {\r\n  font-size: 10px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 3px;\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--gold);\r\n  display: block; margin-bottom: 3px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .ceremony-badge .cb-val {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 20px; color: var(--white); letter-spacing: 2px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .cb-divider { width: 1px; height: 40px; background: rgba(200,160,40,0.3); flex-shrink: 0; }\r\n\r\n\/* Hero CTA buttons *\/\r\n.sba-page .hero-btns { display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap; gap: 12px; }\r\n.sba-page .btn-gold {\r\n  display: inline-block; background: var(--gold); color: var(--navy);\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 17px;\r\n  letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  text-decoration: none; padding: 13px 36px;\r\n  clip-path: polygon(10px 0%,100% 0%,calc(100% - 10px) 100%,0% 100%);\r\n  transition: all 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .btn-gold:hover { background: var(--gold2); color: var(--navy); text-decoration: none; }\r\n.sba-page .btn-outline {\r\n  display: inline-block; background: transparent; color: var(--gold);\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 17px;\r\n  letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  text-decoration: none; padding: 13px 36px;\r\n  border: 2px solid var(--gold); transition: all 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .btn-outline:hover { background: var(--gold); color: var(--navy); text-decoration: none; }\r\n.sba-page .btn-navy {\r\n  display: inline-block; background: var(--navy); color: var(--white);\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 17px;\r\n  letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  text-decoration: none; padding: 13px 36px;\r\n  border: 2px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.2);\r\n  transition: all 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .btn-navy:hover { background: var(--navy2); text-decoration: none; color: var(--white); }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 RESPONSIVE: HERO GRID \u2192 SINGLE COLUMN \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n@media (max-width: 768px) {\r\n  .sba-page .hero-content-wrapper {\r\n    grid-template-columns: 1fr;\r\n    gap: 36px;\r\n  }\r\n  .sba-page .hero-photo-main {\r\n    min-height: 260px;\r\n    order: -1; \/* photo above text on mobile *\/\r\n  }\r\n  .sba-page .ceremony-badge {\r\n    flex-wrap: wrap;\r\n    gap: 12px;\r\n    padding: 14px 16px;\r\n    justify-content: center;\r\n  }\r\n  .sba-page .ceremony-badge .cb-item {\r\n    flex: 0 0 calc(50% - 6px);\r\n    text-align: center;\r\n  }\r\n  .sba-page .cb-divider { display: none; }\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 ABOUT SECTION \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .about-sec { background: var(--white); padding: 60px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .about-grid {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;\r\n  gap: 48px;\r\n  align-items: start;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto;\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width: 720px) { .sba-page .about-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; } }\r\n.sba-page .about-sec h2 { color: var(--navy); margin-bottom: 16px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,44px); }\r\n.sba-page .about-sec p { margin-bottom: 14px; }\r\n\/* About section right column *\/\r\n.sba-page .about-right { display: flex; flex-direction: column; gap: 3px; }\r\n\r\n\/* Photo placeholder in the About section *\/\r\n.sba-page .about-photo-placeholder {\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  height: 260px;\r\n  background: linear-gradient(135deg, rgba(0,52,121,0.08) 0%, rgba(0,52,121,0.04) 100%);\r\n  border-radius: 4px;\r\n  border: 2px dashed rgba(0,52,121,0.2);\r\n  display: flex;\r\n  flex-direction: column;\r\n  align-items: center;\r\n  justify-content: center;\r\n  color: rgba(0,52,121,0.4);\r\n  font-size: 13px;\r\n  font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif;\r\n  text-align: center;\r\n  padding: 20px;\r\n  gap: 8px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 0;\r\n  overflow: hidden;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .about-photo-placeholder .ph-icon { font-size: 28px; opacity: 0.5; }\r\n.sba-page .about-photo-placeholder img {\r\n  width: 100%; height: 100%;\r\n  object-fit: cover; border-radius: 3px;\r\n  display: none; \/* remove display:none once image src is set *\/\r\n}\r\n\/* has-image: strip frame, show full image uncropped *\/\r\n.sba-page .about-photo-placeholder.has-image {\r\n  background: none;\r\n  border: none;\r\n  padding: 0;\r\n  height: auto;\r\n  display: block;\r\n  border-radius: 4px;\r\n  overflow: hidden;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .about-photo-placeholder.has-image img {\r\n  display: block;\r\n  width: 100%;\r\n  height: auto;\r\n  object-fit: unset;\r\n  border-radius: 4px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* Info cards \u2014 2\u00d72 grid *\/\r\n.sba-page .info-cards {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .info-card {\r\n  background: var(--off);\r\n  border-left: 4px solid var(--gold);\r\n  padding: 18px 16px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .info-card-title {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 16px; color: var(--navy);\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 1px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 6px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .info-card p { font-size: 13px; margin: 0; line-height: 1.55; }\r\n@media (max-width: 560px) {\r\n  .sba-page .info-cards { grid-template-columns: 1fr; }\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 KEY DATES \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .dates-sec { background: var(--navy2); padding: 60px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .dates-sec h2 { color: var(--white); margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,44px); }\r\n.sba-page .dates-sec .intro { color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6); max-width: 700px; margin-bottom: 40px; }\r\n.sba-page .timeline {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(180px,1fr));\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 40px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .tl-item {\r\n  background: rgba(255,255,255,0.06);\r\n  padding: 24px 20px;\r\n  border-top: 3px solid rgba(200,160,40,0.25);\r\n  transition: border-color 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .tl-item:hover { border-top-color: var(--gold); }\r\n.sba-page .tl-item.tl-active {\r\n  border-top-color: var(--gold);\r\n  background: rgba(200,160,40,0.1);\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .tl-date {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 22px; color: var(--gold);\r\n  letter-spacing: 1px; margin-bottom: 4px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .tl-label {\r\n  font-size: 13px; font-weight: 700;\r\n  color: var(--white); margin-bottom: 6px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .tl-note { font-size: 12px; color: rgba(255,255,255,0.5); line-height: 1.5; }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 INFO SESSIONS \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .sessions-sec { background: var(--off); padding: 60px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .sessions-sec h2 { color: var(--navy); margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,44px); }\r\n.sba-page .sessions-sec .intro { max-width: 700px; margin-bottom: 36px; }\r\n.sba-page .sessions-grid {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(260px,1fr));\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 32px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .session-card {\r\n  background: var(--white);\r\n  padding: 24px 20px;\r\n  border-top: 3px solid var(--lgray);\r\n  display: flex; flex-direction: column;\r\n  transition: border-color 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .session-card:hover { border-top-color: var(--navy); }\r\n.sba-page .session-format {\r\n  display: inline-block;\r\n  font-size: 10px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 2px;\r\n  text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  padding: 3px 10px; margin-bottom: 12px;\r\n  border-radius: 2px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .session-format.virtual { background: var(--lnavy); color: var(--navy); }\r\n.sba-page .session-format.inperson { background: rgba(200,160,40,0.12); color: #7a5a00; }\r\n.sba-page .session-date {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 24px; color: var(--navy);\r\n  letter-spacing: 1px; margin-bottom: 4px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .session-detail { font-size: 13px; color: var(--gray); line-height: 1.55; }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 HOW TO NOMINATE \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .nominate-sec { background: var(--white); padding: 60px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .nominate-sec h2 { color: var(--navy); margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,44px); }\r\n.sba-page .nominate-sec .intro { color: var(--gray); max-width: 700px; margin-bottom: 36px; }\r\n.sba-page .nom-grid {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 36px;\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width: 640px) { .sba-page .nom-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; } }\r\n.sba-page .nom-card {\r\n  background: var(--off);\r\n  padding: 28px 24px;\r\n  border-top: 3px solid var(--lgray);\r\n  transition: border-color 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .nom-card:hover { border-top-color: var(--gold); }\r\n.sba-page .nom-num {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 48px; color: rgba(0,52,121,0.1);\r\n  line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 8px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .nom-title {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 20px; color: var(--navy);\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 1px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 8px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .nom-card p { font-size: 14px; color: var(--gray); }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 ELIGIBILITY \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .elig-sec { background: var(--white); padding: 60px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .elig-sec h2 { color: var(--navy); margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,44px); }\r\n.sba-page .elig-sec .intro { max-width: 700px; margin-bottom: 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .elig-grid {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(280px, 1fr));\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 32px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .elig-item {\r\n  background: var(--off);\r\n  padding: 20px 20px;\r\n  display: flex;\r\n  align-items: flex-start;\r\n  gap: 14px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .elig-icon { font-size: 22px; flex-shrink: 0; margin-top: 2px; }\r\n.sba-page .elig-text { font-size: 14px; color: #444; line-height: 1.6; }\r\n.sba-page .elig-text strong { color: var(--navy); }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 HOW TO APPLY \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .apply-sec { background: var(--off); padding: 60px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .apply-sec h2 { color: var(--navy); margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,44px); }\r\n.sba-page .apply-sec .intro { max-width: 700px; margin-bottom: 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .steps {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: repeat(3,1fr);\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 32px;\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width: 640px) { .sba-page .steps { grid-template-columns: 1fr; } }\r\n.sba-page .step {\r\n  background: var(--white);\r\n  padding: 28px 24px;\r\n  border-top: 3px solid var(--lgray);\r\n  transition: border-color 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .step:hover { border-top-color: var(--gold); }\r\n.sba-page .step-num {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 56px; color: rgba(0,52,121,0.12);\r\n  line-height: 1; margin-bottom: 8px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .step-title {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 20px; color: var(--navy);\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 1px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 8px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .step p { font-size: 14px; color: var(--gray); }\r\n.sba-page .apply-notice {\r\n  background: rgba(200,160,40,0.1);\r\n  border-left: 4px solid var(--gold);\r\n  padding: 16px 20px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 32px;\r\n  font-size: 14px;\r\n  color: #333;\r\n  line-height: 1.7;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .apply-notice strong { color: var(--navy); display: block; margin-bottom: 4px; font-size: 15px; }\r\n.sba-page .video-note {\r\n  background: var(--lnavy);\r\n  border-left: 4px solid var(--navy);\r\n  padding: 16px 20px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 28px;\r\n  font-size: 14px; color: #333; line-height: 1.65;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .video-note strong { color: var(--navy); }\r\n.sba-page .portal-cta {\r\n  background: var(--navy);\r\n  padding: 28px 32px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto;\r\n  display: flex;\r\n  align-items: center;\r\n  justify-content: space-between;\r\n  flex-wrap: wrap;\r\n  gap: 20px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .portal-cta-text h3 {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 22px; color: var(--gold);\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 2px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 4px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .portal-cta-text p { color: rgba(255,255,255,0.65); font-size: 14px; margin: 0; }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 CATEGORIES \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .cat-sec { background: var(--navy2); padding: 60px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .cat-sec h2 { color: var(--white); margin-bottom: 10px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,44px); }\r\n.sba-page .cat-sec .intro { color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6); max-width: 700px; margin-bottom: 40px; }\r\n.sba-page .boty-label {\r\n  font-family: 'Montserrat', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 11px; font-weight: 800;\r\n  letter-spacing: 4px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  color: var(--gold); margin-bottom: 12px;\r\n  padding-bottom: 8px;\r\n  border-bottom: 2px solid rgba(200,160,40,0.3);\r\n  max-width: 1100px; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .boty-grid {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(190px,1fr));\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto 40px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .boty-card {\r\n  background: rgba(255,255,255,0.06);\r\n  padding: 24px 20px;\r\n  border-top: 3px solid transparent;\r\n  transition: all 0.25s;\r\n  display: flex; flex-direction: column;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .boty-card:hover {\r\n  background: rgba(255,255,255,0.1);\r\n  border-top-color: var(--gold);\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .boty-size {\r\n  font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 2px;\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--gold);\r\n  margin-bottom: 6px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .boty-name {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 22px; color: var(--white);\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 1px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 8px; line-height: 1.1;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .boty-desc {\r\n  font-size: 13px; color: rgba(255,255,255,0.55);\r\n  line-height: 1.55; flex: 1; margin-bottom: 16px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .cat-btn {\r\n  display: inline-block; background: var(--gold); color: var(--navy);\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif; font-size: 13px;\r\n  letter-spacing: 2px; text-transform: uppercase;\r\n  text-decoration: none; padding: 7px 16px;\r\n  transition: all 0.2s; align-self: flex-start;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .cat-btn:hover { background: var(--gold2); text-decoration: none; color: var(--navy); }\r\n.sba-page .spec-grid {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: repeat(auto-fit, minmax(280px,1fr));\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .spec-card {\r\n  background: rgba(255,255,255,0.06);\r\n  padding: 28px 24px;\r\n  border-left: 3px solid var(--gold);\r\n  display: flex; flex-direction: column;\r\n  transition: background 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .spec-card:hover { background: rgba(255,255,255,0.1); }\r\n.sba-page .spec-name {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 22px; color: var(--gold);\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; letter-spacing: 1px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 4px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .spec-who {\r\n  font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 2px;\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; color: rgba(255,255,255,0.4);\r\n  margin-bottom: 10px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .spec-desc {\r\n  font-size: 13px; color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6);\r\n  line-height: 1.6; flex: 1; margin-bottom: 16px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .spec-who-text {\r\n  font-size: 12px; color: rgba(255,255,255,0.4);\r\n  font-style: italic; line-height: 1.5; margin-bottom: 16px;\r\n}\r\n\r\n\/* Non-competitive *\/\r\n.sba-page .noncomp-grid {\r\n  display: grid;\r\n  grid-template-columns: 1fr 1fr;\r\n  gap: 3px;\r\n  max-width: 1100px;\r\n  margin: 0 auto;\r\n}\r\n@media (max-width: 640px) { .sba-page .noncomp-grid { grid-template-columns: 1fr; } }\r\n.sba-page .noncomp-card {\r\n  background: rgba(255,255,255,0.04);\r\n  padding: 24px 20px;\r\n  border: 1px solid rgba(200,160,40,0.2);\r\n  border-top: none;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .noncomp-badge {\r\n  display: inline-block;\r\n  background: rgba(200,160,40,0.15);\r\n  color: var(--gold);\r\n  font-size: 10px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 2px;\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; padding: 3px 10px;\r\n  margin-bottom: 10px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .noncomp-name {\r\n  font-family: 'Bebas Neue', sans-serif;\r\n  font-size: 22px; color: rgba(255,255,255,0.85);\r\n  letter-spacing: 1px; margin-bottom: 8px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .noncomp-card p { font-size: 13px; color: rgba(255,255,255,0.45); line-height: 1.6; }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 PRESENTED BY \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .partners-sec { background: var(--off); padding: 48px 32px; }\r\n.sba-page .partners-label {\r\n  font-size: 11px; font-weight: 700; letter-spacing: 4px;\r\n  text-transform: uppercase; color: var(--gray);\r\n  text-align: center; margin-bottom: 28px;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .partners-row {\r\n  display: flex; flex-wrap: wrap;\r\n  justify-content: center; align-items: center;\r\n  gap: 36px; max-width: 900px; margin: 0 auto;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .partners-row img {\r\n  max-height: 52px; width: auto;\r\n  filter: grayscale(30%); opacity: 0.85;\r\n  transition: all 0.2s;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .partners-row img:hover { filter: grayscale(0%); opacity: 1; }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 CLOSING CTA \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .cta-sec {\r\n  background: var(--navy);\r\n  padding: 60px 32px; text-align: center;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .cta-sec h2 { color: var(--white); margin-bottom: 12px; font-size: clamp(30px,4vw,48px); }\r\n.sba-page .cta-sec p { color: rgba(255,255,255,0.6); max-width: 520px; margin: 0 auto 28px; }\r\n\r\n\/* \u2500\u2500 FADE \u2500\u2500 *\/\r\n.sba-page .sba-fade {\r\n  opacity: 0; transform: translateY(22px);\r\n  transition: opacity 0.55s ease, transform 0.55s ease;\r\n}\r\n.sba-page .sba-fade.sba-vis { opacity: 1; transform: translateY(0); }\r\n<\/style>\r\n\r\n<div class=\"sba-page\">\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\r\n       HERO \u2014 Two-column grid\r\n       LEFT:  badge \u00b7 h1 \u00b7 sub \u00b7 note \u00b7 [photo above stats] \u00b7 stat boxes \u00b7 CTAs\r\n       RIGHT: main awards photo\r\n  \u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550\u2550 -->\r\n  <section class=\"hero\">\r\n    <div class=\"hero-inner\">\r\n      <!-- \u2500\u2500 FULL-WIDTH BADGE \u2014 spans above both columns \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n      <div class=\"hero-badge hero-badge-full\">Presented by The City of Montgomery \u2022 Access Montgomery \u00b7 SBOSS Montgomery \u00b7 Montgomery County Commission<\/div>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"hero-content-wrapper\">\r\n\r\n        <!-- \u2500\u2500 LEFT COLUMN \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n        <div class=\"hero-left\">\r\n          <h1 class=\"hd\">\r\n            MGM Small Business\r\n            <em>Awards '26<\/em>\r\n          <\/h1>\r\n          <p class=\"hero-sub\">Montgomery's 2nd Annual Small Business Awards \u00b7 <strong>Ceremony: August 1, 2026<\/strong><\/p>\r\n          <p class=\"hero-note\">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.<\/p>\r\n\r\n        <\/div><!-- \/hero-left -->\r\n\r\n        <!-- \u2500\u2500 RIGHT COLUMN: main hero photo \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n        <div class=\"hero-right\">\r\n          <div class=\"hero-photo-main has-image\">\r\n            <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/0W4A2148C-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"MGM Small Business Awards Ceremony\" style=\"display:block;\">\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div><!-- \/hero-right -->\r\n\r\n      <\/div><!-- \/hero-content-wrapper -->\r\n\r\n      <!-- \u2500\u2500 FULL-WIDTH BOTTOM BAR: stat boxes + buttons \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n      <div class=\"hero-bottom\">\r\n        <div class=\"ceremony-badge\">\r\n          <div class=\"cb-item\">\r\n            <span class=\"cb-label\">Ceremony Date<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">August 1, 2026<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-divider\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-item\">\r\n            <span class=\"cb-label\">Location<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">Montgomery Museum of fine Arts<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-divider\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-item\">\r\n            <span class=\"cb-label\">Categories<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">13 Awards<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-divider\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-item\">\r\n            <span class=\"cb-label\">Status<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">Judging Underway<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-divider\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-item\">\r\n            <span class=\"cb-label\">Admission<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">Free<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"hero-btns\">\r\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-small-business-awards-ceremony-tickets-1992377569945?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">RSVP for The Ceremony &rarr;<\/a>\r\n          \r\n          <a href=\"#categories\" class=\"btn-navy\">View All Categories &rarr;<\/a>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div><!-- \/hero-bottom -->\r\n\r\n    <\/div><!-- \/hero-inner -->\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n  <div class=\"gold-rule\"><\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2500\u2500 ABOUT \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"about-sec sba-fade\">\r\n    <div class=\"about-grid\">\r\n\r\n      <!-- LEFT: text content -->\r\n      <div>\r\n        <span class=\"eyebrow\">About the Awards<\/span>\r\n        <h2 class=\"hd\">Montgomery's Small Business Awards<\/h2>\r\n        <p>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.<\/p>\r\n        <p>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 \u2014 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.<\/p>\r\n        <p style=\"margin-top:14px;\">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.<\/p>\r\n        <p style=\"margin-top:14px;\"><strong style=\"color:var(--navy);\">Nominations open May 12 and close June 22, 2026.<\/strong> 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.<\/p>\r\n        <div class=\"hero-btns\">\r\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/2025\/08\/25\/2025sba\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">Check out 2025 Winners &rarr;<\/a>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <!-- RIGHT: photo on top, 4 info cards in 2\u00d72 grid below -->\r\n      <div class=\"about-right\">\r\n\r\n        <!-- About section photo -->\r\n        <div class=\"about-photo-placeholder has-image\">\r\n          <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/0W4A2071C-scaled.jpg\" alt=\"MGM Small Business Awards Event\" style=\"display:block;\">\r\n        <\/div>\r\n\r\n        <!-- 4 info cards \u2014 2\u00d72 grid -->\r\n        <div class=\"info-cards\">\r\n          <div class=\"info-card\">\r\n            <div class=\"info-card-title\">Nomination Period<\/div>\r\n            <p>May 12 \u2013 June 22, 2026. Nominations open May 12. Review the categories below and submit before the window closes.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"info-card\">\r\n            <div class=\"info-card-title\">13 Award Categories<\/div>\r\n            <p>Business of the Year (5 size tiers) plus 8 special recognition categories covering innovation, community impact, legacy, minority ownership, tech, and more.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"info-card\">\r\n            <div class=\"info-card-title\">Community Nominations<\/div>\r\n            <p>Anyone can nominate a business. Self-nominations are encouraged. Complete the form and the business owner receives instructions to submit their full application.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"info-card\">\r\n            <div class=\"info-card-title\">Who Can Be Nominated<\/div>\r\n            <p>Any business located in the City or County of Montgomery holding a valid business license with fewer than 500 W-2 employees.<\/p>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <\/div><!-- \/about-right -->\r\n\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n  <div class=\"gold-rule\"><\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2500\u2500 KEY DATES \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"dates-sec sba-fade\">\r\n    <div class=\"wrap\">\r\n      <span class=\"eyebrow\" style=\"color:var(--gold);\">Mark Your Calendar<\/span>\r\n      <h2 class=\"hd\" style=\"color:var(--white);\">Key Dates<\/h2>\r\n      <p class=\"intro\">Stay ahead of every milestone. Nominations open May 12 and close June 22 \u2014 the ceremony follows in August 2026.<\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"timeline\">\r\n        <div class=\"tl-item tl-active\">\r\n          <div class=\"tl-date\">June 22<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-label\">Nominations Closed<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-note\">The nomination and application window is closed. Thank you to everyone who took part.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"tl-item tl-active\">\r\n          <div class=\"tl-date\">Now<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-label\">Judging Underway<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-note\">Our national panel is reviewing entries and selecting this year's honorees.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"tl-item\">\r\n          <div class=\"tl-date\">Aug 1<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-label\">Awards Ceremony<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-note\">Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts<br>Winners announced live. Time and venue to be announced \u2014 RSVP to stay updated.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div style=\"text-align:center;\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-small-business-awards-ceremony-tickets-1992377569945?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">RSVP Today &rarr;<\/a>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n  <div class=\"gold-rule\"><\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2500\u2500 CATEGORIES \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"cat-sec sba-fade\" id=\"categories\">\r\n    <div class=\"wrap\">\r\n      <span class=\"eyebrow\" style=\"color:var(--gold);\">13 Award Categories<\/span>\r\n      <h2 class=\"hd\" style=\"color:var(--white);\">Award Categories<\/h2>\r\n      <p class=\"intro\">Review each category carefully. Businesses may apply to multiple categories but can only be selected as a winner in one. Nominations open May 12th \u2014 close June 22nd.<br>Award Applications Closes June 25th<\/p>\r\n      <!-- Business of the Year -->\r\n      <div class=\"boty-label\">Business of the Year \u2014 Five Size Tiers<\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"boty-grid\">\r\n        <div class=\"boty-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"boty-size\">1\u20132 Employees<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"boty-name\">Founders Flame<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"boty-desc\">Celebrating the enduring passion and resilience of micro teams delivering meaningful impact with lean operations.<\/p>\r\n        \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"boty-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"boty-size\">3\u20135 Employees<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"boty-name\">Rising Force<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"boty-desc\">Honoring dynamic small teams that consistently punch above their weight, driving results through creativity and focus.<\/p>\r\n        \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"boty-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"boty-size\">6\u201325 Employees<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"boty-name\">Thriving Venture<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"boty-desc\">Recognizing growth-minded businesses building strong foundations and contributing steadily to their industries.<\/p>\r\n          \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"boty-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"boty-size\">26\u2013100 Employees<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"boty-name\">Enterprise Excellence<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"boty-desc\">Showcasing high-performing businesses leading with innovation, consistency, and organizational strength.<\/p>\r\n         \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"boty-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"boty-size\">101\u2013500 Employees<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"boty-name\">Industry Titan<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"boty-desc\">Celebrating larger small businesses whose scale amplifies their ability to lead, influence, and elevate the broader business community.<\/p>\r\n          \r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <!-- Special Categories -->\r\n      <div class=\"boty-label\" style=\"margin-top:48px;\">Special Recognition Categories<\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"spec-grid\">\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Innovative Business of the Year<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Businesses Redefining the Norm<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">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.<\/p>\r\n        \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Community Impact Award<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Businesses Serving Their Community<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">Honors a business that creates measurable community change through service, philanthropy, partnerships, or mission-aligned work. Consistency and authenticity matter most.<\/p>\r\n         \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Emerging Business of the Year<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Businesses 1\u20133 Years Old<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">Celebrates rising stars showing innovation, momentum, and a strong foundation for long-term success. Bold vision and rapid progress set these businesses apart.<\/p>\r\n      \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Legacy Business of the Year<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Businesses 25+ Years in Operation<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">Recognizes businesses that have stood the test of time \u2014 demonstrating resilience, adaptability, and consistent service to customers and the community across decades.<\/p>\r\n          \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Tech Business of the Year<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Tech-Forward Businesses<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">Honors a business driving innovation through technology \u2014 solving real-world problems and contributing to the growth of the digital economy through products, platforms, or services.<\/p>\r\n         \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Beacon Award<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Financial Institutions<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">Recognizes a bank, credit union, or CDFI that actively supports small business success through strong outreach, inclusive lending, and tailored solutions for entrepreneurs.<\/p>\r\n          \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Minority-Owned Business of the Year<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Minority &amp; Woman-Owned Businesses<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">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.<\/p>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-who-text\">Qualifying ownership: Black or African American \u00b7 Hispanic or Latino \u00b7 Native American or Alaska Native \u00b7 Asian American \u00b7 Native Hawaiian or Pacific Islander \u00b7 Women (any race or ethnicity)<\/p>\r\n          \r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"spec-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"spec-name\">Young Professional-Owned Business<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"spec-who\">Best For: Entrepreneurs Age 40 or Younger<\/div>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-desc\">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.<\/p>\r\n          <p class=\"spec-who-text\">Business must be at least 51% owned and led by a qualifying young professional (age 40 or under at time of application).<\/p>\r\n         \r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n  <div class=\"gold-rule\"><\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2500\u2500 PRESENTED BY \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"partners-sec sba-fade\">\r\n    <div class=\"partners-label\">Presented By &amp; In Partnership With<\/div>\r\n    <div class=\"partners-row\">\r\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/city-field-logo_nobackground-150x150.png\" alt=\"City of Montgomery\">\r\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Montgomery-County-logo-150x150.png\" alt=\"Montgomery County Commission\">\r\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Access-Montgomery-Google-Header-1-300x75.png\" alt=\"Access Montgomery\">\r\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/TechLabLogo-300x125.webp\" alt=\"Tech Lab\">\r\n      <img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/05\/Reach-Logo-Full-Color-Hotizontal-768x255.png\" alt=\"REACH WBC\">\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n  <div class=\"gold-rule\"><\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2500\u2500 CLOSING CTA \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"cta-sec sba-fade\">\r\n    <div class=\"wrap\">\r\n      <h2 class=\"hd\">Celebrate With US<\/h2>\r\n      <p>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!<\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"hero-btns\" style=\"justify-content:center;\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/www.eventbrite.com\/e\/2026-small-business-awards-ceremony-tickets-1992377569945?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">Register Today &rarr;<\/a>\r\n       \r\n        <a href=\"#categories\" class=\"btn-navy\">View All 13 Categories &rarr;<\/a>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n\r\n<\/div><!-- \/sba-page -->\r\n\r\n<script>\r\n(function(){\r\n  if(!('IntersectionObserver' in window)){\r\n    document.querySelectorAll('.sba-page .sba-fade').forEach(function(e){ e.classList.add('sba-vis'); });\r\n    return;\r\n  }\r\n  var obs = new IntersectionObserver(function(entries){\r\n    entries.forEach(function(e){ if(e.isIntersecting) e.target.classList.add('sba-vis'); });\r\n  },{ threshold: 0.07 });\r\n  document.querySelectorAll('.sba-page .sba-fade').forEach(function(e){ obs.observe(e); });\r\n})();\r\n<\/script>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Presented by The City of Montgomery \u2022 Access Montgomery \u00b7 SBOSS Montgomery \u00b7 Montgomery County Commission MGM Small Business Awards &#8217;26 Montgomery&#8217;s 2nd Annual Small Business Awards \u00b7 Ceremony: August [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":2460,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-334","page","type-page","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry"],"jetpack_sharing_enabled":true,"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/334","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=334"}],"version-history":[{"count":93,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/334\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2498,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/334\/revisions\/2498"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/2460"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=334"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}