Small Business Awards 2024

Join the Howard County Economic Development Authority for our first ever Small Business Awards! We will be celebrating some of Howard County’s best and brightest businesses for their innovative action, unrivaled achievement, and unique execution. This is your opportunity to nominate a business—including your own—for one or more of the categories below.

Awards will be presented by County Executive Calvin Ball and HCEDA CEO Jennifer Jones at our Columbia headquarters on Wednesday, October 9 during Business Appreciation Week and winners will be notified in advance so they can plan accordingly.

Award Categories

These aren’t the usual business award categories! We’re looking for oft-overlooked achievements that are worth celebrating. Submit your nomination now for one or more of the following categories:

Pivot Prodigy – Nimbly adapted and successfully changed directions.

Wellness Trailblazer – Making significant strides through innovative health and wellness products/services.

Eco-Warrior – Leading the charge in sustainability and environmental initiatives.

Community Crusader – Above and beyond in philanthropic efforts and community engagement.

Social Butterfly – Killing it on social media through creative marketing.

RiskyBiz Award – Took calculated risks and bold moves that paid off.

Digital Disruptor – Shaking up their industry through cutting-edge innovation.