Earn Your Business Accolades in 2014 | Loudoun County Economic Development

By: Susan VanEpps

Think your business is too small or too new to win a prestigious award? Think again. Many award programs, both local and national, seek to recognize innovative, successful small business entrepreneurs. Good publicity helps grow your business, so here are a few award programs you might want to consider.

The SCORE Awards: Loudoun opened a SCORE office at the Mason Enterprise Center earlier this year, and any small business owner who has used SCORE services is eligible for this award. Nominations may be submitted by any SCORE volunteer, any small business owner who has used SCORE services, or any supporter of The SCORE Foundation. Self-nomination is encouraged. For details, contact SCORE.
The Northern Virginia Technology Council Hot Ticket: These awards recognize the efforts of entrepreneurial companies in the region’s tech community. Companies can self-nominate in any of the eight award categories, and winners are announced at a poolside party each June. Contact NVTC to be notified about 2014 nominations.
The DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award: Sponsored by Sam’s Club®, this award is coordinated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and celebrates the success of small business and its contributions to America’s economic growth. This is a chance to win a $10,000 cash prize and gain national recognition for your business. The winner, seven regional finalists, and 100 Blue Ribbon winners will be acknowledged in June in Washington, D.C. Nominations are due in January 2014.
Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award, for the Greater Washington Region: Area businesses can apply for this well-known awards program, which begins taking nominations free of charge each January. Anyone who is associated with a successful entrepreneur can nominate a candidate; contact EY to receive notifications and updates. Regional winners are entered in the running for national honors.
Loudoun Chamber of Commerce Small Business Awards: The chamber’s signature event of the year. In 2014 this group will be celebrating its 20th year of honoring small businesses. Following nominations from the public each summer, winners are announced in the fall in 10 categories, including: entrepreneur, small business, franchisee, retailer and home-based businesses of the year.