← Minority Business Awards 2027 Award Categories

Ten categories, one evening of recognition

Each year, the Minority Business Awards honor leaders across Birmingham’s business, health care, education, nonprofit and technology communities. Here is what each award recognizes.

Small Business

Small-Business Owner

Resilient innovators who thrive in challenging environments, small-business owners contribute to the economy by offering unique perspectives. Their ventures, from coffee shops to tech startups, enrich communities and pave the way for a more inclusive future.

Health Care

Medical Leader

Champions for equitable health care, medical leaders break barriers and advocate for underrepresented populations. Their influence extends beyond hospitals, shaping policies and inspiring the next generation of health care professionals.

Corporate

Executive Leader

Visionary and inspiring, executive leaders work to create opportunities and inclusivity. They address challenges within communities, mentor future leaders and foster collaboration to build stronger, more diverse networks.

Community

Community Trailblazer

The Community Trailblazer Award recognizes an outstanding individual who has demonstrated exceptional leadership, service and commitment to uplifting local communities. Through their actions, collaboration and dedication, the recipient has made a lasting impact on the economic growth, empowerment and well-being of the community they serve.

Early Career

Young Professional

Motivated and eager to learn, young professionals bring a fresh and collaborative energy to their careers. They are dedicated to making a positive impact in their fields.

Entrepreneurship

Entrepreneur of the Year

An innovative risk-taker from an underrepresented group, this entrepreneur drives economic growth by creating jobs and offering solutions that address diverse community needs. Despite barriers, they bring fresh ideas to life and foster social progress.

Education

Academic Leader

Guiding institutions toward excellence, academic leaders mentor students and staff, shaping dynamic learning environments. They are passionate about education and committed to fostering positive academic values.

Nonprofit

Nonprofit Leader

As strategic thinkers driven by compassion and integrity, nonprofit leaders advance mission-driven causes. With experience in fundraising and collaboration, they have a meaningful impact on their communities.

Technology

Tech Innovation Leader

This award honors a minority entrepreneur, executive or organization that has leveraged technology to solve real-world problems, expand access and drive measurable growth within their business, industry or community.

Special Recognition

Icon

An icon is a visionary with integrity and perseverance. They inspire change through passion, courage and innovation, leaving a lasting impact on their field. Icons remain true to their values, motivating others to follow their lead.

Questions about nominations?

Reach out to the awards team to learn how finalists are nominated and judged.