U.S. Chamber Recognizes 2010 Blue Ribbon DREAM BIG Small Business Award Winners

75 Businesses Showcase Commitment to Employees, Customers, and Communities

WASHINGTON, D.C.—The U.S. Chamber of Commerce recognized 75 Blue Ribbon Small Business Award® winners, honoring their critical role in creating jobs and growing the economy.

"This year's recipients of the Blue Ribbon Small Business Award are proof that the American entrepreneurial spirit is as strong as ever," said Thomas J. Donohue, U.S. Chamber president and CEO. "We're relying on small businesses to lead us out of this recession, create new jobs, and get our economy moving again, and these companies are leading the way."

The Blue Ribbon Small Business Award, sponsored by Sam's Club®, is designed to recognize businesses that demonstrate excellent business practices in several areas, including business strategy, employee development, community involvement, and customer service.

"This award is about more than recognizing financially successful businesses," said Donohue. "It's about honoring those that show a commitment to their employees, sound business practices, and bettering their communities. These companies have made these commitments, and the Chamber is proud to recognize their contributions."

This year's 75 Blue Ribbon winners were selected from a record number of nationwide applicants and will be honored at America's Small Business Summit 2010, May 17–19, in Washington, D.C. On March 15, seven of the Blue Ribbon businesses will be announced as award finalists, and one will be named the DREAM BIG Small Business of the Year during America's Small Business Summit. The winner will be presented with a $10,000 cash prize courtesy of Sam's Club.

Blue Ribbon businesses are also eligible for the Community Excellence Award, decided by online public voting, March 1–12. In addition, 25 Free Enterprise Honorees were commended for their strong business practices and contributions to the economy.

To learn more about America's Small Business Summit, visit www.uschambersummit.com.

The U.S. Chamber of Commerce is the world's largest business federation representing the interests of more than 3 million businesses of all sizes, sectors, and regions, as well as state and local chambers and industry associations.

# # #