CO-100 Awards: Win $25,000 in America’s Top Small Business Competition

Grant Overview

Gain National Recognition, Funding, and Unmatched Networking Opportunities for Your For-Profit Business

Donor: U.S. Chamber of Commerce

About: The CO-100 program, presented by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, is a premier national awards initiative designed to recognize and celebrate the achievements of America’s most innovative and successful small businesses. This is far more than a simple contest; it’s a significant opportunity for entrepreneurs to gain national exposure, secure a grand prize of $25,000, and join an elite group of business leaders. The program seeks to honor the change-makers and problem-solvers who are not only driving economic growth but also making a tangible impact in their communities. This initiative seems particularly well-suited for ambitious for-profit businesses looking to elevate their brand to a national stage.

Beyond the impressive monetary prizes, which include $2,000 for ten top honorees, the benefits of applying are substantial. Every single applicant receives a one-year membership to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, a valuable asset worth $250 that provides access to exclusive resources, events, and B2B offers. Winners and honorees can expect significant brand visibility, with features across print, radio, and broadcast news outlets, as well as dedicated profiles on the CO— platform. Navigating the application process to highlight your business’s strengths is key, and utilizing professional grant writing and business development services could provide a competitive edge.

The CO—100 program is structured to acknowledge excellence across a wide spectrum of business operations through ten distinct categories. Whether your business excels in creative growth strategies, community engagement, technological innovation, or has shown remarkable resilience, there is a category for you. Businesses can apply for up to five categories, increasing their chances of recognition. This structure suggests that the judges are looking for well-rounded companies that are not just profitable but also purposeful. It’s an ideal platform for many kinds of enterprises, including those that might typically seek out grants for startups to fuel their expansion.

Participation in the CO—100 offers invaluable networking possibilities. Honorees gain access to an exclusive LinkedIn group, opportunities for speaking engagements at high-profile events, and are invited to a VIP summit in Washington, D.C. This direct access to influential figures and fellow top entrepreneurs can be transformative. To make the most of this opportunity, it is essential to have a clear and compelling story. Crafting a strong narrative is a crucial step, and resources like Grantaura’s application guidance can help structure your submission effectively.

The application itself requires a detailed look at your business, and while there is an entry fee that varies based on the submission date, the potential return on investment is immense. The tiered deadline structure encourages early applications, giving proactive businesses a cost advantage. Previous winners have included businesses from diverse sectors, all sharing a common thread of ingenuity and commitment to growth. Preparing a thorough application is not just about winning; it’s an exercise in strategic thinking that can benefit your business regardless of the outcome. For those looking to present the most polished submission possible, working with experts on business plan development can ensure your company’s vision is communicated powerfully.

Ultimately, the CO—100 awards represent a unique platform for small businesses to achieve national acclaim and accelerate their growth trajectory. It’s a celebration of the entrepreneurial spirit that fuels the American economy. For businesses ready to take the next step, this program offers the tools, recognition, and financial boost to do so. Grantaura is committed to helping entrepreneurs succeed, and our team is available for a consultation to discuss how to position your business for opportunities like this one.

Focus: Small Business Growth, Innovation, Community Impact, Marketing Excellence, Global Expansion, Company Culture, Customer Service, Tech Innovation, Business Longevity, Entrepreneurship

Region: United States

Eligibility:
– Must be a for-profit business.
– Must be based primarily in the United States.
– Must have been in operation for at least one year prior to May 4, 2024.
– Must have fewer than 250 employees.
– Must have gross revenues of less than $20 million for both 2023 and 2024.
– Businesses previously named to the CO—100 list are not eligible to apply again.
– Applicants must be legal residents of the United States.

Benefits:
– One business will be named the CO—100 Top Business of the Year and receive a $25,000 cash award.
– Ten Top Honorees will receive a $2,000 award each.
– All 100 Honorees receive a dedicated business profile on CO—, national media exposure, and a CO—100 statuette and digital badge.
– All applicants receive a one-year paid membership to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce (a $250 value).
– Opportunities for speaking engagements and exclusive networking, including access to the CO—100 LinkedIn group and a VIP summit in Washington, D.C.

Deadline: July, 07, 2025

Terms:
– Application Fee: The program has a tiered fee structure. The early deadline rate is $150 (May 27), the regular rate is $200 (June 30), and the last chance rate is $250 (July 7).
– CO—: The digital platform and brand from the U.S. Chamber of Commerce designed for business owners, which hosts the awards program.
– U.S. Chamber of Commerce: The world’s largest business organization and the primary donor and organizer of the CO—100 awards.