Small Business & Non-Profit of the Year Awards

Celebrating Small Businesses and Non-Profit Organizations in Manatee County

Call for Nominations!

Our Small Business and Non-Profit of the Year Awards celebrate the organizations that make Manatee County a stronger, more vibrant community. These awards recognize excellence in leadership, innovation, growth, and community impact among local businesses and non-profits.

This is not a popularity contest. Each nominee is evaluated through a thoughtful and thorough application process that highlights their achievements, business practices, and contributions to our community. Being nominated is an honor, and becoming a finalist or award recipient is a distinguished recognition of outstanding performance and dedication.

We invite you to nominate a business or non-profit organization that exemplifies excellence and is making a meaningful difference in Manatee County.

There is no limit to the number of businesses/organizations you can nominate.

IMPORTANT:

Only one nomination is needed for a business / organization to be invited to apply for an award.
The number of nominations a business / organization receives has NO bearing on the awards selection process.
A business or non-profit must have been opened and operated location for at least three years to qualify.
To be considered a small business or non-profit, there must be fewer than 80 employees.

Nomination Deadline: June 5, 2026

Save the Date:
46th Annual Small Business & Non-Profit of the Year Awards Luncheon
Friday, August 28, 2026

* = required field
Nominator Information (your contact information)
Your Name *

Your Company/Organization

Your Phone Number *

Your Email *

Nominee Information
Company/Organization Name *

* For-Profit Business* Non-Profit Organization

Representative/Nominee Name

Position/Title

Address

City/State

Zip Code

Phone Number

Why do you think that this business/organization should be considered for this award? (optional)

Following the nomination process, all nominees will be invited to complete a comprehensive application highlighting their organization’s achievements, operations, and community impact.

Completed applications are reviewed by an independent panel of judges who evaluate each submission based on established criteria. From this review, finalists are selected and invited to participate in an interview process. Award recipients are ultimately determined through this thorough and thoughtful evaluation.