{"id":334,"date":"2025-04-29T13:41:55","date_gmt":"2025-04-29T18:41:55","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/?page_id=334"},"modified":"2026-05-21T14:15:52","modified_gmt":"2026-05-21T19:15:52","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 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\">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.<\/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\">Nominations Open<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">May 12<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-divider\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-item\">\r\n            <span class=\"cb-label\">Nominations Close<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">June 22<\/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\">Ceremony Date<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">August 1st<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-divider\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"cb-item\">\r\n            <span class=\"cb-label\">Cost<\/span>\r\n            <span class=\"cb-val\">Free to Apply<\/span>\r\n          <\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"hero-btns\">\r\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261204794354155\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">Nominate a Business &rarr;<\/a>\r\n          <a href=\"https:\/\/startupspace.app\/surveys\/sba26\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-outline\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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\">May 12<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-label\">Nominations Open<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-note\">Official launch. Submit a nomination or self-nominate at the link below.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"tl-item tl-active\">\r\n          <div class=\"tl-date\">June 22<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-label\">Nominations Close<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"tl-note\">Last day to submit a nomination or self-nominate. Don't miss the window.<\/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>1 Museum Dr, Montgomery, AL 36117<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div style=\"text-align:center;\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261204794354155\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">Nominate a Business &rarr;<\/a>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n  <div class=\"gold-rule\"><\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2500\u2500 HOW TO NOMINATE \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"nominate-sec sba-fade\">\r\n    <div class=\"wrap\">\r\n      <span class=\"eyebrow\">Step by Step<\/span>\r\n      <h2 class=\"hd\">How It Works<\/h2>\r\n      <p class=\"intro\">The process is simple. A nomination starts the journey \u2014 then the business takes it from there with their full application.<\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"nom-grid\" style=\"grid-template-columns:repeat(3,1fr);\">\r\n        <div class=\"nom-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"nom-num\">01<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"nom-title\">Submit a Nomination<\/div>\r\n          <p>A community member nominates a business \u2014 or a business owner self-nominates \u2014 using the nomination form. Either way, it starts with that first step.<\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"nom-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"nom-num\">02<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"nom-title\">Business Receives Email<\/div>\r\n          <p>Once a nomination is received, the nominated business gets an email with direct instructions and a link to complete their full award application.<\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"nom-card\">\r\n          <div class=\"nom-num\">03<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"nom-title\">Apply via the Portal<\/div>\r\n          <p>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.<\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div style=\"text-align:center; display:flex; flex-wrap:wrap; gap:12px; justify-content:center;\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261204794354155\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">Nominate a Business &rarr;<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/startupspace.app\/surveys\/sba26\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-outline\">Application Portal &rarr;<\/a>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n    <\/div>\r\n  <\/section>\r\n  <div class=\"gold-rule\"><\/div>\r\n\r\n  <!-- \u2500\u2500 ELIGIBILITY \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"elig-sec sba-fade\">\r\n    <div class=\"wrap\">\r\n      <span class=\"eyebrow\">Requirements<\/span>\r\n      <h2 class=\"hd\">Who Is Eligible?<\/h2>\r\n      <p class=\"intro\">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.<\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"elig-grid\">\r\n        <div class=\"elig-item\">\r\n          <div class=\"elig-icon\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"elig-text\"><strong>Located in Montgomery<\/strong><br>Business must be located in the City of Montgomery or Montgomery County.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"elig-item\">\r\n          <div class=\"elig-icon\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"elig-text\"><strong>Valid Business License<\/strong><br>Must hold a current business license from the City of Montgomery, Town of Pike Road, or Montgomery County.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"elig-item\">\r\n          <div class=\"elig-icon\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"elig-text\"><strong>Employee Count<\/strong><br>Must employ fewer than 500 W-2 employees. 1099 contractors are not included in this count.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"elig-item\">\r\n          <div class=\"elig-icon\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"elig-text\"><strong>Category-Specific Criteria<\/strong><br>Certain categories (Minority-Owned, Young Professional, Legacy) have additional ownership or tenure requirements outlined in each category description.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"elig-item\">\r\n          <div class=\"elig-icon\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"elig-text\"><strong>Multiple Categories Allowed<\/strong><br>Businesses may apply to multiple categories but can only be selected as a winner in one.<\/div>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"elig-item\">\r\n          <div class=\"elig-icon\"><\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"elig-text\"><strong>Judging Panel<\/strong><br>Finalists are selected by a panel of business owners and economic development professionals from across the country.<\/div>\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 HOW TO APPLY \u2500\u2500 -->\r\n  <section class=\"apply-sec sba-fade\">\r\n    <div class=\"wrap\">\r\n      <span class=\"eyebrow\">For Nominated Businesses<\/span>\r\n      <h2 class=\"hd\">How to Apply<\/h2>\r\n      <p class=\"intro\">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 \u2014 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.<\/p>\r\n\r\n      <!-- Nominated-only notice -->\r\n      <div class=\"apply-notice\">\r\n        <strong>This section is for business owners who have been nominated.<\/strong> If you were nominated \u2014 or self-nominated \u2014 you should have received an email with a direct link to your application. If you didn't receive it, you can access your category's application form directly below. Applications are not open to the general public.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n\r\n      <div class=\"steps\">\r\n        <div class=\"step\">\r\n          <div class=\"step-num\">01<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"step-title\">Confirm Your Category<\/div>\r\n          <p>Review the 13 award categories below and confirm which best align with your business, history, and mission. You may apply to more than one.<\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"step\">\r\n          <div class=\"step-num\">02<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"step-title\">Complete Each Application<\/div>\r\n          <p>Each category has its own form. Answer the category-specific questions and upload a 2\u20133 minute video in your own words. You may save and return later.<\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <div class=\"step\">\r\n          <div class=\"step-num\">03<\/div>\r\n          <div class=\"step-title\">Submit &amp; Await Review<\/div>\r\n          <p>Submit before the June 22 deadline. Finalists will be notified ahead of the August 2026 ceremony. Winners are announced at the event.<\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"video-note\">\r\n        <strong>About the Video Submission:<\/strong> A 2\u20133 minute video is required with each application. You may use a phone, tablet, or any device. The judging panel is not evaluating production quality \u2014 they are looking for authenticity and substance. Read through the full application before you begin, as both the written form and video are required.\r\n      <\/div>\r\n      <div class=\"portal-cta\" style=\"margin-top:3px;\">\r\n        <div class=\"portal-cta-text\">\r\n          <h3>Central Application Portal<\/h3>\r\n          <p>Access all category applications in one place. Applications available starting May 12, 2026.<\/p>\r\n        <\/div>\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/startupspace.app\/surveys\/sba26\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">Open Application Portal &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.<\/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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134687740157\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134715812149\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134910809152\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134649812155\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261135035158148\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134799942165\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261135560838156\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134672516152\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134748692161\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134729284157\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134693099161\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261135380305145\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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          <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261134968936166\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"cat-btn\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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\">Know a Business That Deserves Recognition?<\/h2>\r\n      <p>Nominations open May 12 and close June 22. The ceremony is August 1, 2026. Don't let a deserving business miss their moment \u2014 nominate today.<\/p>\r\n      <div class=\"hero-btns\" style=\"justify-content:center;\">\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/form.jotform.com\/261204794354155\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-gold\">Nominate a Business &rarr;<\/a>\r\n        <a href=\"https:\/\/startupspace.app\/surveys\/sba26\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"btn-outline\">Apply Now &rarr;<\/a>\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 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 1, 2026 Recognizing the entrepreneurs, [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":370,"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":84,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/334\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2458,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/334\/revisions\/2458"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/sbossmgm.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/370"}],"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}]}}