Celebrate Small Business Excellence with Us!

Join us for our annual Small Business Week! In partnership with the Coastal Carolina Small Business Center, we’re bringing you a week-long celebration dedicated to empowering and honoring the entrepreneurs who drive our community forward. We have a variety of events designed to help your business grow and thrive.

 

We wrap up the week by celebrating our community’s best at the Awards Breakfast, where we’ll proudly present the First Citizens Bank Small Business of the Year and the Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award. This special event is a chance to connect with fellow entrepreneurs, celebrate local achievements, and recognize the incredible contributions that small businesses make every day.

 

Save the date! The 2026 Small Business Week Awards Breakfast will take place on May 7, 2026 at the Onslow Memorial Hospital Cafeteria from 8 AM to 10 AM. 

Meet our 2025 award recipients below and learn more about these two prestigious awards.

 

First Citizens Bank Small Business of the Year

The First Citizen’s Bank Small Business of the Year Award, is an honor that recognizes outstanding contributions to our local business landscape.

Nominees will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

  • Demonstrated excellence of knowledge and integrity in their business or professional field.
  • Provision of valuable business/service/profession to the Community.
  • Active Chamber Membership and alignment with the Small Business Council’s Mission of supporting our citizens, the military, and the local business community.
View past award recipients

First Citizen's Bank

Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award

The Duke Energy Citizenship and Service Award honors an exceptional individual or team making a difference in their community or workplace. Whether through time, talent, or heartfelt dedication, these recipients embody the spirit of citizenship and service, inspiring others to join in creating positive change.

The award serves to:

  • Recognize and celebrate outstanding leadership and volunteerism
  • Foster a culture of service and engagement within our communities
  • Support initiatives aimed at enhancing our quality of life

Eligibility is open to individuals, teams, or workgroups within any organization, regardless of Chamber membership or Duke Energy affiliation.

View past award recipients

 

Thank you to our Platinum Sponsor

First Citizen's Bank

Thank you to our Gold Sponsor

Thank you to our Silver Sponsor

 

Thank you to our Bronze Sponsors