May 11-13, 2009 | Washington, DC

Small business leaders gathered in early May to bring the voice of business to Congress. Attendees met with policymakers to discuss issues important to their businesses, and heard from a unique line-up of speakers.

Learn more about the 2009 Summit:

Awards Ceremony & Videos | Agenda | Finalists' Videos

George Swift, President and CEO of the Southwest Louisiana Economic Development Alliance, attended the Summit and describes his experience:

"At the conference, we heard from and met new Commerce Secretary Gary Locke, and new SBA Administrator Karen Mills. Our own Senator Landrieu launched the summit as Chair of the Senate Small Business committee… We discussed the need for access to capital for small businesses and the need to cut through the red tape and delays to process SBA loans."

For a recap of the 2009 event and to learn how you can benefit from attending the 2010 Small Business Summit, check out The Swift Report.

america's small business of the year awards program

Congratulations to AGM Container Controls!

Western regional finalist AGM Container Controls of Tuscan, AZ was named the 2009 America's Small Business of the Year, sponsored by Sam's Club.

President Howard Stewart accepted the award presented by U.S. Chamber Chairman of the Board Don Shepard and Sam's Club CEO Brian Cornell at the Awards Luncheon during America's Small Business Summit 2009.

Learn more about the 2009 Awards Program and the seven regional finalists.

Fine Earth LLC Receives Community Excellence Award

Fine Earth LLC, a Blue Ribbon Award winner from Harrisonburg, VA, received the first annual Community Excellence Award during the Blue Ribbon Award's Breakfast. The crystal award was presented to owner Chad Layman.

The Community Excellence Award is designed to highlight the integral role that small businesses play in their communities. The award is presented to the Blue Ribbon Small Business that receives the most online votes.