36.2 million reasons to celebrate
What is National Small Business Week (NSBW)
Every year since 1963, the President of the United States has issued a proclamation announcing National Small Business Week, which recognizes the critical contributions of America’s entrepreneurs and small business owners.
More than half of Americans either own or work for a small business, and they create about two out of every three new jobs in the U.S. each year.
As part of National Small Business Week, the U.S. Small Business Administration takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of entrepreneurs, small business owners, and others from all 50 states and U.S. territories. Every day, they’re working to grow small businesses, create 21st century jobs, drive innovation, and increase America’s global competitiveness.
Register for the Virtual Summit
About the Virtual Summit
The National Small Business Week 2-day virtual summit is happening Tuesday, May 5 and Wednesday, May 6, 2026. It is hosted by the U.S. Small Business Administration and cohosted by America’s SBDC
This year’s event is open to established and aspiring business owners and will include:
- Educational presentations by industry experts
- Exhibit booths
- Free business resources
- Business advice from America’s SBDCs.
The event is free, but registration is required.
National SBDC of the Year:
Florida SBDC at UCF
The Florida SBDC at the University of Central Florida (UCF) was named the SBA’s National SBDC Excellence and Innovation Award recipient in recognition of its sustained excellence, measurable economic impact, and innovative service delivery. Selected from nearly 1,000 centers nationwide, the Florida SBDC at UCF exemplifies the highest standards of performance within the national SBDC system.
Under the leadership of Regional Director Eunice Choi, the region is nationally recognized for its growth-oriented programming, including the award-winning Advisory Board Council, CEO XChange, and Small Business Institute, which provide advanced strategic guidance to second-stage firms. Serving an eight-county Central Florida region, the Center has supported more than 15,500 businesses over the past decade, generating $606 million in capital formation, $1.03 billion in government contracts, nearly $949 million in sales growth, and helping create or retain more than 18,000 jobs.
A two-time Florida SBDC Region of the Year (2023 and 2025), the Florida SBDC at UCF consistently exceeds performance milestones and demonstrates sustained excellence – solidifying its reputation as a national leader in small business development.
“We are humbled yet immensely gratified to be honored as the SBDC of the Year by the SBA. Our team takes great pride in its unwavering commitment to serving the small business community and advancing SBA’s mission. This award reflects our consistent ability to exceed SBA milestones and outperform our own high expectations within the Florida SBDC Network.”
National Small Business Week Winners
Meet All the 2026 National Small Business Week Award Winners
