Small Business Week

Small business isn't small to us.

The Abilene Chamber of Commerce will be spotlighting individuals and businesses who, through their independent entrepreneurial spirit, play a vital role in building the community and the economy. To be nominated is a reward in itself and a nomination serves as a great tribute to a company’s leadership and employees. All small business nominees and recipients will be recognized at the Salute to Small Business Luncheon.

CONGRATULATIONS TO OUR 2025 AWARD WINNERS! Check out their stories below.

Please note, that finalists and winners were selected by an anonymous committee and based on the story shared and provided in the submission, not quantity of nominations.

2026 AWARD CATEGORIES

NEW BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

Chamber member operating for more than one year and less than three years. Nominees must have fewer than 25 full-time equivalent employees. This award is sponsored by Abilene Environmental Landfill.

SMALL BUSINESS COMMUNITY INVESTMENT AWARD

Chamber member business with fewer than 25 full-time equivalent employees, for its outstanding community service contributions such as special programs, partnerships, in-kind support of goods and services, employee volunteerism or other activities that have resulted in a positive impact on our community and citizens. This award is sponsored by First Financial Bank.

SMALL BUSINESS YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR

Chamber member, business owner/leader under the age of 40 who has taken risks in business – started a new venture; expanded into a new area; taken on a difficult project; someone whose thinking is “outside the box”; an astute businessperson with a vision for the future.

FAMILY-OWNED BUSINESS OF THE YEAR AWARD

Family-owned and operated business with less than 25 full-time employees. The owner must also serve as a majority owner

Salute to Small Business Week is Presented by America's SBDC at Texas Tech and championed by First Financial Bank, and Star Auto Group.