Jacksonville, Florida, December 11, 2025
The JAX Chamber has revealed its 2026 Small Business Leaders of the Year, celebrating 11 exceptional entrepreneurs from Northeast Florida. Recognized for their significant contributions to their communities, these leaders exemplify excellence in various industries. Each honoree was chosen by Chamber Councils and initiatives, showcasing the diverse talent within the region. The overall winner will be announced at a breakfast reception, further emphasizing the importance of small businesses in driving Jacksonville’s economy.
Jacksonville, Florida – The JAX Chamber has announced its 2026 Small Business Leaders of the Year, recognizing 11 outstanding entrepreneurs from Northeast Florida. This annual award honors the remarkable achievements of small business leaders who demonstrate excellence within their communities and contribute significantly to the local economy. Each leader was selected by various Chamber Councils, the Beaches Division, NextUp JAX, and Venture Services, illustrating a broad spectrum of entrepreneurial talent within our region.
The honorees are:
- Dr. Tim Conway, The Morris Center – Arlington Council
- Jason Pratt, Prattify – Downtown Council
- Kati Lambert, Well Minded Hypnosis – Health Council
- Justin Kane, DoubleChecked Cybersecurity – IT Council
- Dawn Stewart, Pestle and Potions – Professional Women’s Council
- Heather Waisanen, Coastal Maverick – South Council
- Tom Snogles, Twinkle Nights – Three Rivers Council
- Boshawn Mack, Global Reliable Logistics, Inc. – Transportation & Logistics
- April Watson, April Adventures Travel – Beaches Division
One of these leaders will be named the overall 2026 Small Business Leader of the Year at a breakfast reception presented by TD Bank on January 29 at the University of North Florida. This event is not merely a recognition but a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels Jacksonville’s economy.
Selection Process and Criteria
The selection process is rigorous, involving a thorough review by councils and committees that evaluate nominations based on leadership and business acumen. Each selected leader will compete for the coveted overall title. This process highlights the commitment to maintaining high standards and fostering an environment where business leaders can excel without the burdensome restrictions often found in other locales.
The Importance of Small Businesses
Small businesses form the backbone of Jacksonville’s economy. The JAX Chamber’s initiative to recognize their leaders not only celebrates individual achievements but also emphasizes the broader impact these businesses have on job creation and local community enhancement. By championing entrepreneurs, the Chamber plays a vital role in encouraging economic resilience in Duval County.
Upcoming Announcement and Event Details
The anticipation surrounding the announcement of the overall 2026 Small Business Leader of the Year adds an element of enthusiasm to the local business landscape. The breakfast reception, set for January 29, will bring together community members, business leaders, and supporters of the local economy. It serves as a reminder of the importance of community support and engagement in fostering a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Support Local Entrepreneurs
The focus on recognizing outstanding small business leaders aligns with a greater narrative where entrepreneurship is celebrated and supported. These leaders embody the resilience and innovation necessary for economic growth. Community members are encouraged to engage with local businesses and support the remarkable individuals driving Jacksonville’s economy.
Conclusion
In summary, the recognition of Jacksonville’s Small Business Leaders of the Year illustrates the strength and vitality of the local economy. Supporting these entrepreneurs is not just beneficial for them but for the entire community. Engaging with and promoting local businesses is crucial as Jacksonville continues to grow and thrive economically.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the JAX Chamber’s Small Business Leader of the Year Award?
The JAX Chamber’s Small Business Leader of the Year Award honors the entrepreneurial spirit of Jacksonville’s small businesses, recognizing individuals who have demonstrated business excellence and leadership within their communities. This annual recognition aims to highlight the significant contributions of small business leaders to the local economy and community development.
How are the Small Business Leaders of the Year selected?
The selection process involves each council, along with Venture Services, the Beaches Division, and NextUp JAX, reviewing submitted nominations and selecting their respective leaders. All selected leaders will compete for the overall title, culminating in the announcement of the JAX Chamber Overall Small Business Leader of the Year in February 2026. The competition includes completing and submitting a digital presentation package that answers questions about the company’s business history and philosophy, as well as a thirty-minute interview with a panel of judges comprised of the prior year’s SBLYs. Neither financial statements nor an accountant’s statement of financial viability is required.
When and where will the overall Small Business Leader of the Year be announced?
The overall 2026 Small Business Leader of the Year will be announced during a breakfast reception presented by TD Bank on January 29 at the University of North Florida.
Key Features of the JAX Chamber’s Small Business Leader of the Year Award
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Purpose | To honor the entrepreneurial spirit of Jacksonville’s small businesses and recognize individuals who have demonstrated business excellence and leadership within their communities. |
| Selection Process | Involves each council, along with Venture Services, the Beaches Division, and NextUp JAX, reviewing submitted nominations and selecting their respective leaders. All selected leaders will compete for the overall title, culminating in the announcement of the JAX Chamber Overall Small Business Leader of the Year in February 2026. The competition includes completing and submitting a digital presentation package that answers questions about the company’s business history and philosophy, as well as a thirty-minute interview with a panel of judges comprised of the prior year’s SBLYs. Neither financial statements nor an accountant’s statement of financial viability is required. |
| Event Details | The overall 2026 Small Business Leader of the Year will be announced during a breakfast reception presented by TD Bank on January 29 at the University of North Florida. |
| Website | For more information about the Small Business Leader of the Year Award and the upcoming event, please visit the JAX Chamber’s official website. |
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Author: STAFF HERE JACKSONVILLE WRITER
The JACKSONVILLE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREJacksonville.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Jacksonville, Duval County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Jacksonville Jazz Festival, Riverside Arts Market, and World of Nations Celebration. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce and JAXUSA Partnership, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and entertainment that power the local economy such as CSX Corporation, Baptist Health, and VyStar Credit Union. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREOrlando.com, HEREStPetersburg.com, HERETallahassee.com, and HERETampa.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Florida's dynamic landscape.
