|
The Awards program is designed to honor our nation's job creators and recognize their significant contributions as drivers of economic growth. New to the Awards program? Check out our 2011 Award Winners. See the other levels of recognition for the awards program. |
 |
Timeline | Eligibility | Criteria | Community Excellence Award | Levels of Recognition | Applicaton FAQs | Application Information 2012
The application form is available online. The winner will receive a $10,000 cash prize, courtesy of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce!
2012 Awards Program Timeline
January 6, 2012: Nomination Submission Deadline
January 13, 2012: Application Submission Deadline
March 1, 2012: Blue Ribbon Winners Announced
March 1 – 15, 2012: Community Excellence Award Voting Period
March 15, 2012: Regional Finalists (7) Announced
May 22, 2012: DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award Winner Announced
Eligibility Requirements
Members and nonmembers of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce are invited to participate in the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Awards program. Small businesses must meet the following requirements to participate in the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Awards program:
- Fewer than 250 employees
- Gross revenues of less than $20 million in 2009 and 2010
The winner of the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award must also be able to attend America's Small Business Summit 2012, May 21-23, in Washington, D.C.
Award Criteria
Eligible applicants for the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year Award will be judged on the following:
- Staff training and motivation
- Community involvement
- Customer service
- Business strategies and goals
Community Excellence Award
The Community Excellence Award, selected by popular vote, is awarded to one Blue Ribbon Small Business that has found notable success in the eyes of its community. It is voted on by the people that know a company best—its customers, employees, and neighbors.
Voting is open to the public and takes place online between Thursday, March 1 and Thursday, March 15. This award is a great opportunity for our Blue Ribbon Small Businesses to maximize their exposure and get the recognition they deserve. The winner will be announced on May 22 during America's Small Business Summit.
Levels of Recognition
Blue Ribbon Small Businesses®
- One complimentary registration to attend the Summit, courtesy of Sam's Club.
- Discounted registration of $275 for any additional registrants affiliated with the company
- Recognition during the DREAM BIG Blue Ribbon Awards® Breakfast and DREAM BIG Awards Luncheon
- DREAM BIG Blue Ribbon Small Business Award Certificate
- Web sticker to display on company Web site
- Recognition in Free Enterprise magazine
Community Excellence Award Winner
- All recognitions given to the Blue Ribbon Small Businesses
- Two night hotel stay during the Summit at the Omni Shoreham Hotel
- Crystal award
- Award presentation on stage during the Blue Ribbon Breakfast
Regional Finalists
- All recognitions given to Blue Ribbon Small Businesses
- Two night hotel stay during the Summit at the Omni Shoreham Hotel
- Recognition on stage during Summit Awards Luncheon
- Crystal award
- Spotlight in Free Enterprise magazine
DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year
- All recognitions given to Finalists and Blue Ribbon Winners
- Acceptance speech on stage
- Special crystal award
