Greater Rochester Chamber’s Small Business Council affiliate announces 2026 Business Person of the Year Awards Finalists

May 29, 2026 - 03:52

ROCHESTER, NY -- The Small Business Council, an affiliate of the Greater Rochester Chamber of Commerce, has announced the ten finalists for its 2026 Business Person of the Year Awards. The awards, which have been presented annually since 1983, honor for-profit business leaders across the Greater Rochester region.

This year's finalists are divided into two categories. The first category recognizes leaders from companies with 25 or fewer employees. The second category honors leaders from businesses with 26 or more employees. A panel of judges from the local business community selected the finalists based on professional achievement, community involvement, and demonstrated leadership.

The winners will be announced at an awards ceremony scheduled for later this year. The Small Business Council noted that the finalists represent a wide range of industries, including manufacturing, technology, healthcare, and retail. The council also highlighted the resilience and innovation shown by these leaders, particularly in the current economic climate.

The Business Person of the Year Awards are a longstanding tradition in the Rochester area, aimed at celebrating the contributions of small and medium-sized businesses to the local economy. The Chamber expects a strong turnout for the ceremony, which will feature keynote remarks from a prominent regional entrepreneur.