We are excited to announce that nominations are now open for the 2025
Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards, hosted by the Florida SBDC at
FGCU. This prestigious event, held during National Small Business
Week, celebrates the innovation, advocacy, and excellence of small bus-
inesses and their leaders across Southwest Florida.  

We invite you and your community partners to nominate outstanding entre-
preneurs from businesses in our community who exemplify leadership, in-
novation, and resilience. This year’s event will mark the 12th anniversary
of recognizing the exceptional contributions that make SWFL a thriving,
collaborative, and innovative business ecosystem.  

The Distinguished Entrepreneur Awards offers an unparalleled opportunity
to support and celebrate the SWFL small business community and to cele-
brate the inspiring stories of its leaders. By participating, you:  

Honor Excellence: Recognize businesses and entrepreneurs who have
made a significant impact through their dedication, innovation, and leader-
ship.

Strengthen the Community: Help shine a spotlight on the small business
community, fostering pride and collaboration among local entrepreneurs
and organizations.

Inspire Future Leaders: Share the achievements of today’s business lead-
ers to encourage and empower the next generation of entrepreneurs in SWFL.

Build Connections: Join an esteemed group of attendees, including over
150 community leaders and business owners, and create relationships that
strengthen the fabric of our local economy.  

Nominate Today! Submit your nominations by February 14, through our on-
line nomination form. Let’s come together to honor the current and future busi-
ness leaders of SWFL who inspire us with their dedication, creativity, and ser-
vice.  

We look forward to celebrating with you at this year’s ceremony on May 15th,
and recognizing the extraordinary entrepreneurs who shape our community.    

Distinguished Entrepreneur Award Nominations    

Download Distinguished Entrepreneur PDF