Catalyst Center opens nominations for ‘2022 Entrepreneur Awards’

HUNTSVILLE – The Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship is accepting nominations for deserving candidates for its seventh annual “Entrepreneur Awards.”

This recognition honors the skill, courage and determination required for entrepreneurs to select an idea and create a business. The awards have celebrated the diligence and inspiring stories of many outstanding North Alabama entrepreneurs who are making a positive impact in the community.

For eligibility, nominated entrepreneurs must live in the North Alabama area, and the company must be located in North Alabama. Self-nominations are accepted. Nominations will close Jan. 31, 2021 at 11:59 p.m.

The Stone Event Center at Campus 805 in Huntsville will serve as the venue for the awards ceremony on Feb. 25, 2022. “At The Catalyst, we know remarkable entrepreneurs are equally driven by their ‘why’ as they are by their motivation to succeed. Since 2016, The Entrepreneur Awards has celebrated the compelling stories of these individuals and their successes,” spokesperson Leigh Christian said.

The awards continue to celebrate all areas of entrepreneurship — from services and technology to defense to retail. “The Entrepreneur Awards serve to honor the finest entrepreneurs in our community, as we know entrepreneurs are a driving force in our communities . . . they are our future,” Christian said.

Awards will be presented in several categories:

* Entrepreneur of the Year — In business three-plus years with proven track record for sustainability, strategic direction, future growth and community involvement.

* Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year — In business for one to three years with record for sustainability with room for growth.

* Creative Entrepreneur of the Year — Awarded to nontechnical professional whose focus is retail, arts, entertainment or culinary.

* Female Entrepreneur of the Year – Operates in North Alabama. Officials will submit this winner to the Small Business Administration’s “Small Business of the Year” national award.

* Veteran Entrepreneur of the Year — Military veteran operating a business in North Alabama.

* Youth Entrepreneur of the Year — Individual younger than 17 years old.

* Non-Profit Entrepreneur of the Year — Leader of an organization that concentrates on quality-of-life enhancements in the community.

* People’s Choice — Applicant with most votes from the community in social media campaign during Feb. 4-15.

* Entrepreneur Champion of the Year — Individual who has championed the entrepreneurial journey.

To nominate a business or owner, visit catalystcenter.org, or click the nomination link in the Catalyst’s weekly newsletter.

The Catalyst Center for Business & Entrepreneurship, a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization, serves entrepreneurs and small business owners in every stage of business. The organization aims to provide the best-in-class coaching, in-demand services and relevant programs to foster success of small businesses.

The Catalyst Center’s address is 515 Sparkman Drive in Huntsville. For more information, call 256-428-8190, email info@catalystcenter.org or visit catalystcenter.org.