The exterior of the U.S. Chamber of Commerce building decorated for the CO—100.
The entrance to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce headquarters was transformed with CO—100 décor to welcome attendees. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce

The CO—100 is an awards program recognizing the most innovative small businesses across the country. Each year, that recognition is brought to life in Washington, D.C., where Honorees are celebrated through a multi-day VIP experience filled with exclusive sessions, curated experiences, and evening events. Take a look at last year’s highlights—and imagine what it could look like for your business.

[Looking to apply for the 2026 CO—100? Click here!]

 A hallway with stars on the floor.
Inside the U.S. Chamber of Commerce headquarters, CO—100 Honorees were recognized with Hollywood-style stars on the floor featuring each business’s name. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce

October 6, 2025: An Evening at the Decatur House

Our signature CO—100 event kicked off with a night of good food, cocktails, and networking at the historic Decatur House in Washington, D.C.

 a group of people sitting around a table
CO—100 Honorees celebrating and mingling on the patio at the Decatur House. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 U.S. Chamber's Jeanette Mulvey speaking in front of a crowd of people at the CO—100 welcome party.
Jeanette Mulvey, Editor-in-Chief of CO—, delivers remarks and congratulates the crowd of 2025 CO—100 Honorees. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A store with a display of products.
The CO—100 store featured curated swag items donated by a range of businesses, including past CO—100 honorees and event sponsors. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce

October 7, 2025 (AM): Master Classes & Tours of the Capitol and The People's House 

For the daytime portion of October 7, Honorees got to experience exclusive master classes as well as a chartered tour that took them to the Capitol and The People's House, a local White House-themed museum.

 A man standing on a platform in front of a group of people.
Attendees explored how to craft and communicate a compelling brand story that resonates with customers and sets their business apart. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A room with tables and chairs with laptops.
This session introduced attendees to practical ways AI can be applied across a range of business needs. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A man standing in front of a large screen with people watching.
This master class focused on building clear, confident communication skills to better connect with customers, teams, and partners. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A group of CO—100 attendees taking a photo outside of the Capitol building.
CO—100 2025 Honorees pose for their group photo outside the Capitol building in Washington, D.C. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 Inside of The People's House museum.
Attendees explore a replica of the Oval Office at the People’s House museum in Washington, D.C. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce

October 7, 2025 (PM): Night of 100 Stars

The evening brought attendees together at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce headquarters for a gala honoring the CO—100 and their standout accomplishments.

 A room with tables and chairs.
The "Night of 100 Stars" gala celebrates the CO—100 Honorees as a whole, as well as announces the 10 Top Honorees and the Top Small Business of the Year. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 a group of people sitting at tables in a room with a stage and a band
The gala took place in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce Great Hall, where a central stage anchored the room and hosted a lineup of programming, including fun, interactive games. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A group of people sitting on chairs in front of a stage.
CO—100 Top Honorees are interviewed on stage at the 2025 awards gala. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A group of people holding a large check.
Maryland-based Dynamic Automotive was awarded the CO— Top Business of 2025. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce

October 8, 2025: CO—100 Forum 

The CO—100 Forum featured a day of expert-led panels, with executives and business owners sharing insights and answering audience questions.

 A man and woman sitting in chairs.
The U.S. Chamber’s Neil Bradley joined CO—’s Jeanette Mulvey for a Small Business Update to discuss key issues impacting small businesses. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A group of people on a stage.
U.S. Chamber Chief Policy Officer Neil Bradley and Google's Christopher Turner take the stage to share insights and perspectives during a panel discussion. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce
 A group of people sitting on stage for an interview at an event.
CO— Senior Editorial Director Barbara Thau hosts a panel of business owners at the 2025 CO—100 Forum. — U.S. Chamber of Commerce

Apply for the CO—100

Inspired by what you see? Apply for this year’s CO—100 and join a community of forward-thinking small businesses recognized for their impact, innovation, and growth. Click here to apply!

CO—is committed to helping you start, run and grow your small business. Learn more about the benefits of small business membership in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, here.

What can membership do for your business?

Gain tools to stay informed, competitive, and connected by becoming a U.S. Chamber of Commerce member. Membership gives you direct access to expert policy insights, economic updates, and exclusive resources designed to help your business thrive. From behind-the-scenes analysis from D.C. to exclusive discounts and expert support, U.S. Chamber membership helps you navigate change and seize new opportunities.

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