Georgia Opened Nominations for Small Business Awards
Owners of Georgia-based businesses can now nominate their firms for the 2027 Small Business ROCK STARS program.
Updated on Oct. 4, 2026 in Business — General
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The Georgia Department of Economic Development has opened nominations for the 2027 Small Business ROCK STARS program. This initiative honors five state-based companies annually for their contributions to job creation and economic growth.
Why it matters
The program highlights small businesses that anchor local economies through consistent job creation and community investment. Recognition helps operators increase their visibility and validate their impact within the competitive Georgia business landscape.
Since the program began in 2013, 50 businesses have received the award from a pool of over 4,000 total nominations. The state selects five recipients annually, with previous winners like Calhoun-based American Dakota highlighting the program's reach across Georgia.
The players
Georgia Department of Economic Development
The state agency responsible for managing business development, job growth programs, and industry recruitment across Georgia.
American Dakota
A Calhoun-based manufacturer that operates within the state's small business sector and received the 2025 award.
The details
Businesses may be nominated by their owners or by third parties through the Georgia Department of Economic Development website. Selected honorees are typically businesses with no more than 300 full-time employees that have demonstrated significant community investment. The process serves as a platform to profile firms that contribute meaningfully to the state economy.
Timeline
The program began accepting annual nominations in 2013.
American Dakota in Calhoun received the award in 2025.
Nominations for the 2027 awards close October 31, 2026.
Market Landscape
The 2027 nomination cycle follows the long-standing precedent set by the Georgia Small Business ROCK STARS program. The initiative continues to serve as a marker for small business excellence in a state that consistently emphasizes localized economic growth.
Operators in Georgia should review the program guidelines to determine if their firm meets the eligibility thresholds for the 2027 cycle. Ensure all nomination materials are finalized and submitted before the October 31, 2026 deadline to be considered.
The takeaway
Participation in state-led recognition programs can be a strategic way to elevate your brand's standing with local stakeholders and customers. Review your business's annual job creation and community investment metrics to prepare your case for nomination.
Further reading
For more on industry developments in the state, visit Business — General.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Chattooga1180.
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