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The Roanoke Regional Chamber brought the business community together on September 24 for an unforgettable evening at the 2026 Small Business Celebration, recognizing the innovation, dedication, and entrepreneurial spirit that makes Virginia’s Blue Ridge a thriving place to live, work, and do business.

The evening welcomed local businesses, community leaders, vendors, and supporters for an event filled with meaningful connections, well-deserved recognition, delicious food, and plenty of opportunities to celebrate the people and organizations helping our region grow.

Celebrating Our 2026 Award Winners

At the heart of the celebration was the recognition of outstanding businesses and organizations making a difference throughout the Roanoke region. This year’s award recipients exemplify the creativity, perseverance, and community commitment that drive local success.

Congratulations to our 2026 Small Business Celebration winners!

  • Regional Business of the Year, presented by HomeTrust Bank: Bank of Botetourt
  • Regional Emerging Business of the Year, presented by PenAir Credit Union: Star City Golf Club
  • Inspiration Award, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield: Melrose Plaza, Goodwill Industries of the Valley
  • Inspiration Award, presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield: Roanoke Area Ministries (RAM House)
  • People’s Choice Nonprofit, presented by Brown, Edwards & Co., LLP: Mill Mountain Zoo
  • People’s Choice For-Profit, presented by Brown, Edwards & Co., LLP: Boundless ABA

Each of these honorees represents the impact that dedicated businesses and organizations can have on the people and communities they serve. Their achievements remind us that a strong regional economy is built on more than business growth alone — it thrives when organizations invest in their communities, pursue new opportunities, and create lasting value.

A Celebration of Community and Connection

Beyond the awards, the evening highlighted what makes the Roanoke region’s business community so special. From connecting with fellow professionals to enjoying local flavors and sweet treats, attendees celebrated the people, partnerships, and ideas that keep our region moving forward.

Local businesses play an essential role in shaping our region’s identity, creating opportunities, and strengthening the communities we call home. Events like the Small Business Celebration offer an opportunity to recognize those contributions while building relationships that support continued growth and collaboration.

Thank You to Our Sponsors and Event Partners

An event of this scale would not be possible without the generous support of our sponsors, vendors, and event partners. Their investment helps the Roanoke Regional Chamber create meaningful opportunities to recognize local accomplishments and bring our business community together.

We extend our sincere gratitude to this year’s sponsors:

  • Gold Sponsors: First Citizens Bank, Gentry Locke, and Marsh & McLennan Agency
  • People’s Choice Award Sponsor: Brown, Edwards & Co., LLP
  • Silver Sponsors: Bank of Botetourt and RGC Resources, Inc. / Roanoke Gas
  • Program Sponsor: GLO Fiber Business
  • Regional Business of the Year Sponsor: HomeTrust Bank
  • Regional Emerging Business of the Year Sponsor: PenAir Credit Union
  • Inspiration Award Sponsor: Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield
  • Entertainment Sponsors: BluSky Restoration Contractors, LLC, and McAteer Meeting Management

We are grateful to everyone who contributed their time, resources, and enthusiasm to make this celebration a success. Your support helps create a business environment where local organizations can connect, thrive, and be recognized for their impact.

Supporting the Future of the Roanoke Region

The 2026 Small Business Celebration served as a reminder of the strength that comes from a community committed to supporting its own. When businesses celebrate one another, share ideas, and invest in local relationships, the entire region benefits.

To all of this year’s nominees, winners, attendees, sponsors, and partners: thank you for being part of this special evening and for the work you do every day to make the Roanoke region a better place to do business.

Congratulations once again to our 2026 award winners! We look forward to continuing to celebrate the businesses and community leaders shaping the future of Virginia’s Blue Ridge.

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