Resources for Small Business Organizations

While marketing and advertising are good ways to drum up business, winning an award or contest from a reputable government agency, professional association or media outlet gets you attention from customers who wouldn't otherwise know your company name. Typically, you can nominate your company yourself. Winning an award or contest can:

1. Provide recognition for outstanding service, innovative product development or community contributions
2. Strengthen your business' credibility
3. Create an opportunity to put out a press release to local newspapers
4. Build name recognition among potential new customers.

There are plenty of awards that may be worth applying for, but here are ones geared to small businesses:

Apply for corporate awards

Many corporations or institutions have established awards, contests or innovation-recognition programs to acknowledge small business initiatives.

Apply for professional association awards

Many professional organizations have an annual award that recognizes the leadership, entrepreneurship or commitment of one of its members.

Apply for government awards

Given the importance small businesses play in the U.S. economy, it's no surprise that that federal and state organizations would want to recognize the movers and shakers in this segment.
Small Business Innovation Research program. In conjunction with the National Compliance Advisory Panel, the National Steering Committee, which represents the nationwide Small Business Ombudsman/Small Business Assistance Programs, has established the Small Business Recognition Awards to mark environmental achievements, stewardship and leadership.

Get recognized by the media

Magazines and newspapers also have some sort of annual "top companies" list. Although it's tough to get on these lists because of strict editorial criteria, if you do earn a spot, they come with automatic publicity.

• Local civic organizations, professional associations or city and state agencies may also have awards that honor businesses for their "corporate citizenship."