Our awards lineup includes a “Never Say Never” award for overcoming adversity; a “Community Spirit” award for engagement; a “Green” business award for environmental practices; and a “Small Business Advocate” award recognizing people and organizations that have helped support small businesses across our region.

Our Spirit of Small Business special report and our awards program on Aug. 19 reflect an enduring partnership between Pacific Coast Business Times and the Los Angeles District Offices of the U.S. Small Business Administration. We have been partners in the Spirit Awards since 2003 and we appreciate the leadership of Los Angeles District Director Ben Raju. In recent years we have also welcomed participation from the SBA’s Fresno District which services San Luis Obispo County.