Honoring a veteran entrepreneur who has transformed their dedication to our country into successful business leadership with patriotic pride.

Eligibility:

• Must be a U.S. military veteran (honorably discharged from active duty, reserve, or National Guard)
• Must be the founder, co-founder, or majority owner (51%+) of a small business
• Business must have been in operation for at least 2 years
• Nominee must demonstrate ongoing community engagement or advocacy tied to veteran or small business causes

Evaluation Criteria (must provide examples or data):

• Inspirational personal journey that reflects the values of service, discipline, and adaptability
• Sustainable business growth, innovation, or operational excellence
• Clear demonstration of how military experience has shaped the entrepreneur’s leadership, resilience, or mission-driven approach
• Engagement with and impact on local or veteran communities (e.g., mentorship, hiring veterans, community initiatives)
• Efforts to give back through civic leadership, volunteerism, or economic development
• Embodiment of patriotic pride in business practices, branding, or mission
  

A business in its early stages that demonstrates exceptional promise, innovation, and a solid foundation for long-term success.

Eligibility:

• In operation for 6 months to 2 years
• 10 employees or less

Evaluation Criteria (must provide examples or data):

• Micro-Business (fewer than 10 employees) 
• Unique value proposition or business model
• Demonstrated traction (e.g. customer base, partnerships, revenue growth)
• Brand presence and marketing efforts
• Leadership’s vision and adaptability
• Community engagement or early-stage impact
  

A small business that is scaling operations, increasing market share, and showing measurable growth while maintaining quality and culture.

Eligibility:

• In operation for 3+ to 9 years

Evaluation Criteria (must provide examples or data):

• Small and Medium Business 
• Year-over-year revenue and/or staff growth
• Expansion of product lines, services, or markets
• Investments in infrastructure, systems, or workforce development
• Leadership strategy and scalability
• Positive organizational culture and community visibility
  

A 2nd stage teenage company that has overcome early-stage challenges and are now driving sustained innovation, job creation, and community/economic impact.

Eligibility:

• In operation for 10+ years

Evaluation Criteria (must provide examples or data):

• Long-term financial stability and consistent growth
• Strategic innovation or transformation (e.g. tech integration, global expansion)
• Market leadership or industry influence
• Demonstrated leadership development, succession planning, or governance
• Significant impact on local economy or community initiatives
  

Pays tribute to a business whose enduring leadership and unwavering commitment have empowered entrepreneurs and shaped the success of our small business community.

Eligibility:

• Must be a business with a minimum of 15 years of active business operations in San Antonio or greater San Antonio area.
• Contributions may span public, private, nonprofit, or entrepreneurial sectors
• Must have a demonstrable history of mentoring, advocating for, or investing in small businesses
• Must be cur rently active or recently retired (within 3 years)

Evaluation Criteria (must provide examples or data):

• Lifetime achievements and measurable contributions to entrepreneurship
• Impact on underserved or emerging business communities
• Role in shaping policies, programs, or funding opportunities
• Peer recognition or awards related to small business leadership
• Legacy of mentorship, thought leadership, or ecosystem building
  

The Rising Star Award honors an emerging leader serving in an executive role, such as CEO, Executive Director, or senior-level decision-maker, who is making a measurable impact within their organization and the San Antonio community. This award recognizes early success in their role, recent achievements, demonstrated leadership, and a clear trajectory of influence, innovation, and continued growth.

Eligibility:

• Must be an individual professional serving in an executive role (e.g., CEO, Executive Director, or senior-level decision-maker)
• Early in tenure within their current executive role (typically within the first 3–5 years)
• Must live and/or work in the San Antonio area
• May represent the nonprofit, private, or public sector

Evaluation Criteria (must provide examples or data):

• Demonstrated Organizational Impact: Evidence of measurable outcomes such as revenue growth, program expansion, increased funding, operational improvements, or audience/customer growth within a defined timeframe
• Early Leadership Success: Key milestones achieved shortly after stepping into the role (e.g., launching initiatives, restructuring teams, securing partnerships, entering new markets)
• Strategic Vision & Execution: Ability to set direction and successfully implement strategies that produce tangible results
• Innovation & Problem-Solving: Introduction of new ideas, systems, or approaches that improved performance, efficiency, or community impact
• Community & Industry Engagement: Quantifiable involvement such as board service, mentorship hours, partnerships formed, initiatives led, or populations served
• Trajectory of Growth: Clear indicators of continued upward momentum, influence, and scalability of their leadership impact