MAY 6, 2026

About the Awards

The Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards is an annual recognition program presented by the Florida Small Business Development Center (SBDC) at Florida Gulf Coast University. The purpose of this program is to honor and celebrate outstanding leaders in the Southwest Florida small business community who demonstrate exceptional innovation, resilience, and commitment to their business and community.

The Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards program includes multiple award categories designed to recognize diverse forms of entrepreneurial excellence in Southwest Florida. Each award has distinct criteria to ensure nominees are evaluated appropriately based on their impact, leadership, and business performance.

The Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards of SWFL are held annually during National Small Business Week to recognize southwest Florida’s small businesses for their innovation, advocacy and overall business excellence. Join us on May 6, for an evening of celebration, connection, and recognition honoring the entrepreneurs who help drive our region forward.

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Nominations Open on January 20, 2026!

Our Award Categories

Distinguished Entrepreneur of the Year

This is the program’s highest recognition, honoring an established business owner who has demonstrated sustained success and a forward-thinking approach in their industry.

Servant Leader of the Year

This award honors a business owner who consistently prioritizes service to others, both within their organization and in the broader community.

Emerging Business of the Year

This award honors a business owner who consistently prioritizes service to others, both within their organization and in the broader community.

William O. Webb Award

Named and presented in honor of the late William O. Webb, this cash award is presented to a high-impact small business client currently working with the SBDC at FGCU.

Through these awards, the SBDC aims to:

Recognize business owners who have made significant contributions to the regional economy through growth, creativity, mentorship, and leadership.
Showcase the importance of small businesses as vital drivers of innovation, employment, and community development.
Inspire the broader business community by highlighting stories of entrepreneurial excellence and perseverance.
Strengthen connections among small business leaders, community partners, and stakeholders across the region.

By celebrating these individuals and their achievements, the Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards underscore the SBDC’s mission to support the success of entrepreneurs and promote a thriving, collaborative business environment in Southwest Florida.

Buy Tickets Now

Nominations Open on January 20, 2026!

Becoming our Sponsor

Sponsoring the Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards allows businesses to play a visible and meaningful role in supporting the growth of Southwest Florida’s small business community. This signature event honors outstanding local entrepreneurs who demonstrate innovation, resilience, and leadership across a range of industries. The ceremony draws over 200 attendees, including business owners, community leaders, elected officials, and corporate decision-makers, offering sponsors exceptional visibility among a highly engaged and influential audience.

Beyond brand exposure, sponsorship reflects a company’s commitment to economic development and social impact. Sponsors are recognized throughout the event and in pre- and post-event marketing materials, including digital campaigns, press coverage, printed programs, and on-site signage. By supporting the Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, businesses demonstrate their investment in regional success and their support for the small business leaders shaping the future of Southwest Florida.

Sponsorship Package Sheet

Sponsorship Opportunities