Honoring Businesses Who Inspire, Lead and Transform!
In partnership with The Black Business Council, the Black in Business Awards honors Black owned businesses and leadership making a difference in Montgomery County, Maryland and beyond.
save the date: nov. 19, 2026
2nd annual black in business awards
About the event
The Black in Business Awards is a premier initiative by The Black Business Council, in partnership with MBA Growth Partners, honoring the exceptional achievements of Black-owned businesses and visionary leaders in Montgomery County, MD. This prestigious event celebrates those driving economic growth, fostering innovation, and making a lasting impact in their industries and communities.
Designed as more than just an awards ceremony, the Black in Business Awards serves as a platform for recognition, empowerment, and connection. Finalists will be honored at a formal awards gala, bringing together business leaders, government officials, and advocates dedicated to supporting Black business excellence. Through this celebration, we aim to amplify the stories of trailblazers who are shaping the future and building a legacy of success.
Join us in recognizing the strength, resilience, and leadership of Black entrepreneurs making a difference.
DoubleTree by Hilton Washington DC North/ Gaithersburg
congrats to our 2025 award winners!
Michael J charles
Government Contractor Excellence Award
Melissa Daley
IT Solutions Excellence Award
Tiffany Nesfield
Best Consumer Products and Services Company Award
Hyacinth Tucker
Professional Services Trailblazer Award
sharon jackson wilder
Best Hospitality Award
2025 award finalists
Dr. Juliet Agocha
Best Hospitality Award
Michelle A. Bell
Government Contractor Excellence Award, Professional Services Trailblazer Award
Jon’ll & Matt Boyd
Best Consumer Products and Services Company Award
Ynette Evans
Professional Services Trailblazer Award
Jody Friend
Professional Services Trailblazer Award
Basso Ghee
Best Consumer Products and Services Company Award
Laurin Kelly
Byrdy Kelley
Professional Services Trailblazer Award
Tameka Montgomery
Professional Services Trailblazer Award
Danielle Rozier
Best Hospitality Award
Become a Sponsor
Signature Partner | $15,000 (Limited to 2 Partners)
YEAR-ROUND EVENTS + BLACK IN BUSINESS AWARDS SPONSORSHIP
- Sponsorship of two (2) pre-awards events of choice (Networking Session and/or Sip & Savors)
- Presenting-level recognition at the Black in Business Awards
- Prominent logo placement across:
- Awards website
- Event signage, flyers, and program
- Digital promotion of events
- Recognition in sponsor spotlight emails and social media
- Up to 10 complimentary awards tickets
- Opportunity to present an award and provide brief remarks at pre-awards events
- Recognition as an Official 2026 Signature Partner
BEST FOR:
Anchor sponsors seeking maximum visibility, leadership positioning, and year-round engagement.
Awards Partner | $7,500
AWARDS CEREMONY SPONSORSHIP
- Sponsorship of the Black in Business Awards Ceremony
- Logo placement on awards signage, website, and progra
- Recognition during the awards program
- Inclusion in awards-related email and social promotion
- Up to 6 complimentary awards tickets
- Opportunity to present an award category
Community Partner | $3,000
EVENT-ONLY SPONSORSHIP
Sponsors may support one of the following:
- Bimonthly Networking Session (March, April, or June)
- Sip & Savor: Ticket Sale Kickoff Event (August)
- Sip & Savor: Meet the Finalists Event (October)
Includes:
- Sponsorship of one (1) pre-awards event of choice (Networking Session or Sip & Savor)
- Logo placement on event promotions (email + social)
- On-site signage and verbal recognition
- Opportunity to provide brief remarks at event
- Logo placement on the website sponsor page
- Up to 2 complimentary awards ticket
Optional Add-Ons
Sponsors may enhance their partnership through the following optional visibility and engagement opportunities:
Website Sponsor Ad Placement – $750
Logo or ad placement on the Black in Business Awards website with a direct link to the sponsor’s site, displayed throughout the awards season.
Email Newsletter Sponsor Placement – $500 per email
Logo and short sponsor message included in a scheduled email sent to our engaged subscriber list.
Dedicated Sponsor Feature Email – $950
One standalone email highlighting the sponsor’s brand, mission, and partnership with the Black in Business Awards.
Sponsored Brand or Business Spotlight – $1,200
Additional Awards Tickets – $225 per ticket
Awards Program Advertising
Half-Page Ad – $575
Full-Page Ad – $975
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can apply for the awards?
Businesses registered in the Montgomery County Black Business Database can apply for the awards. Not registered yet? Add your business here.
What is the application deadline?
The application deadline for 2026 is tba.
What materials are required for submission?
Applicants must submit a completed application form, proof of business registration, revenue verification (self-reported or supported), a company overview (500 words max), customer or industry testimonials (minimum of 2), and any optional supporting documents such as press features or case studies.
How are winners chosen?
Winners are selected through a rigorous evaluation process led by a panel of industry experts. Each submission is assessed based on a predefined rubric, with scoring criteria tailored to each award category. The process ensures fairness, transparency, and alignment with the mission of the awards.
Our Sponsors
