SBA Western PA District Office Announces Local Honorees for National Small Business Week 2026

PITTSBURGH — Today, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Western PA District Office announced local honorees for National Small Business Week (NSBW), which will take place this year from May 3 – 9, 2026. Each year during NSBW, the SBA recognizes exceptional small businesses across all 50 states, as well as U.S. districts and territories. Those who were selected to win national awards will be honored in Washington, D.C. on May 3rd at the SBA National Small Business Week Awards Ceremony.

The 2026 Local Awards Winners Include

~ Western PA District, Pennsylvania, and Mid-Atlantic Region Manufacturer of the Year, VAP Steel, East Pittsburgh, PA

~ Western PA District Small Business Person of the Year, Mary Mancini Hartner, Mancini’s Bakery, McKees Rocks, PA

` Western PA District Rural Small Business Person of the Year, John Levi Esh, Jr., Goot Essa, Howard, PA

~ Western PA District Blue-Collar Small Business Person of the Year, Nathaniel Schiffer, Schiffer’s Custom Cabinetry, Seneca, PA

Western PA Small Business Director’s Choice Award, Revolution Energy Services, McDonald, PA

“During National Small Business Week, SBA is honored to recognize the job creators, builders, and innovators who fuel our nation’s economy and anchor communities across America,” said SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler. “This year, as we celebrate our nation’s 250th anniversary, we are highlighting the historic America First agenda that is driving growth, opportunity, and strength for the next generation of entrepreneurs. Through tax cuts, fair trade, and deregulation, the Trump Administration is proud to stand with America’s small businesses – and to celebrate the strong comeback of Main Street.”

Since 1963, the President of the United States has declared National Small Business Week to recognize small businesses as the job creators, builders, and innovators of America’s economy. This year, small businesses in the Mid-Atlantic Region and across the nation are benefiting from a host of new pro-growth incentives introduced as part of the America First agenda – including historic deregulation, fair trade, and Working Family Tax Cuts that have already restored opportunity and investment on Main Street. Today, small business optimism is above its 52-year average.

In addition to recognizing award winners, the SBA Western PA District Office will host events throughout National Small Business Week to connect entrepreneurs with resources, training, and opportunities to start, grow, and succeed.

Details on National Small Business Week, the award winners, and the virtual summit are featured on www.sba.gov/NSBW and will be updated as additional information and activities are confirmed. Local events will be featured on www.sba.gov/events and are identifiable by searching #SmallBusiness Week.