MONTGOMERY, AL — The City of Montgomery celebrated the remarkable achievements of the local business community during the Second Annual Montgomery Small Business Awards, held on Saturday, August 1, 2026, at the Montgomery Museum of Fine Arts. More than 300 business owners, community leaders, elected officials, partners, family members, and supporters gathered for an unforgettable evening honoring the entrepreneurs whose innovation, resilience, and leadership continue to strengthen Montgomery’s economy.
The evening began with a lively pre-reception where attendees connected and celebrated the accomplishments of Montgomery’s entrepreneurs before moving into an inspiring awards ceremony. Throughout the evening, guests heard stories of perseverance, growth, and innovation while recognizing 29 finalists whose businesses represent the very best of Montgomery’s entrepreneurial community.
Hosted by the City of Montgomery Department of Economic Development, the ceremony highlighted the critical role small businesses play in creating jobs, revitalizing neighborhoods, and driving economic prosperity throughout the Capital City.
“Tonight, we celebrate more than successful businesses—we celebrate the people whose vision, determination, and hard work are helping shape Montgomery’s future,” said Mayor Steven L. Reed. “These entrepreneurs are creating jobs, expanding opportunity, investing in our neighborhoods, and demonstrating that Montgomery is a city where small businesses can start, grow, and thrive.”
Following remarks from city leadership, finalists were recognized before winners were announced across 11 award categories. A special highlight of the evening was the presentation of two Legacy Small Business of the Year Awards, recognizing businesses that have faithfully served the Montgomery community for more than 25 years. The Whitlow’s Barber Shop and Robinson and Associates Architecture, Inc. were honored for their enduring commitment to excellence, longevity, and lasting impact on the Capital City. The evening concluded with a celebratory champagne toast led by Dr. Nichole Thompson, Project Director of Small Business One Stop Shop (SBOSS) who offered a heartfelt tribute to the resilience, innovation, and lasting contributions of Montgomery’s small business community while encouraging entrepreneurs to continue building the city’s future.
2026 Montgomery Small Business Award Winners
Community Impact Award: Edwards Essentials LLC
Emerging Small Business of the Year: MHMATTERS 365 LLC
Innovative Small Business of the Year: The Battlegrounds
Legacy Small Business of the Year: The Whitlow’s Barber Shop
Legacy Small Business of the Year: Robinson and Associates Architecture, Inc.
Minority-Owned Small Business of the Year: Scott Koo Realty LLC
Small Business of the Year: Enterprise Excellence Program Management and Technology Services, Inc.
Small Business of the Year: Founder’s Flame Boyd’s Body Therapy
Small Business of the Year: Rising Force 23 Court Cigar Bar
Small Business of the Year: Thriving Venture exploreMedia
Tech Small Business of the Year: The Premier Experience LLC
Young Professional-Owned Small Business of the Year: Symphony Q Academy of Dance
The Montgomery Small Business Awards recognize businesses that exemplify excellence in entrepreneurship, innovation, customer service, leadership, economic impact, and community engagement. Winners were selected through a competitive application and independent judging process.
“Small businesses are the backbone of Montgomery’s economy,” said Frank Robinson, Director of the City of Montgomery Department of Economic Development. “Every business recognized tonight represents the innovation, determination, and resilience that fuel our city’s growth. From emerging entrepreneurs to companies that have served our community for more than 25 years, these award winners demonstrate what is possible when vision, hard work, and community come together. We are proud to celebrate their success and remain committed to creating an environment where businesses of every size can start, grow, and thrive in Montgomery.”
“This celebration reflects the strength and diversity of Montgomery’s entrepreneurial community,” said Jennifer Slaton Anderson, Small Business Consultant for the City of Montgomery Department of Economic Development. “Every finalist represents a story of courage, commitment, and perseverance. We are proud to recognize businesses that are creating jobs, serving their customers with excellence, and making lasting contributions to our city.”
The City of Montgomery extends its sincere appreciation to the volunteer judges, award presenters, and everyone who helped make the evening a memorable celebration of entrepreneurship. Most importantly, the City congratulates each finalist and winner for their outstanding achievements and their continued investment in Montgomery’s future.
Photos from the event and additional information about the Montgomery Small Business Awards are available at www.sbossmgm.com. Follow @AccessMontgomery on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn for event highlights, photos, and updates on programs supporting Montgomery’s small business community.
About the Montgomery Small Business Awards
Presented by the City of Montgomery Department of Economic Development, the City of Montgomery, the Montgomery County Commission, Access Montgomery, and SBOSS, the Montgomery Small Business Awards recognize and celebrate outstanding entrepreneurs and small businesses that are making a significant impact on Montgomery’s economy and quality of life. Through these awards, the City honors the innovation, resilience, and leadership of the businesses that continue to fuel economic growth and strengthen the community.
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