Small Business Celebration Awards 2026

About

The Small Business Celebration Awards 2026 offers Kansas City-based startups the chance to compete for prestigious awards, gain leadership development opportunities, and connect with influential business networks, with a deadline for applications set for February 18, 2026.

Benefits

• 💰 Financial Awards
• Opportunities for various awards including Small Business of the Year and Innovation awards
• 🎓 Leadership Development
• Access to resources and programs aimed at developing business leadership skills
• 🌐 Networking Opportunities
• Chance to connect with other businesses and industry leaders in the Kansas City area
• 📈 Policy Influence
• Opportunity to engage in discussions that may impact local business policies
• 🎤 Application Guidance
• Participation in workshops providing guidance on the application process

Eligibility Criteria

• 🌍 Geographic Eligibility
• Open to businesses headquartered in the Kansas City metropolitan area
• 🏢 Legal Status
• Must be a member of the KC Chamber
• 💼 Employee Count
• Must have 250 or fewer full-time equivalent employees
• 💰 Business Type
• Open to various industries, with a focus on small businesses and innovation
• 👥 Membership Requirement
• Must be a registered member of the Kansas City Chamber

Participation Commitments

• 📍 Workshop Attendance
• Must attend the online application workshop on January 28, 2026
• 🎤 Application Submission
• Complete and submit the application by the deadline of February 18, 2026

Target Region

Kansas City metropolitan area

Target Sector

Open to various industries, especially small businesses