“Today’s small business owners continue this spirit of entrepreneurial caring that has helped shape a heritage of hard work and excellence in Maui’s small business community. I am pleased to recognize some of our finest examples each year through these awards,” said Mayor Charmaine Tavares.

WAILUKU — The county Office of Economic Development announced that nominations are open for the 2009 Mayor’s Small Business Awards program.

This year’s event, sponsored by Central Pacific Bank and other supporters of small business, includes four award categories: Small Business of the Year (ten or fewer employees), Small Business of the Year (11-50 employees), Young Small Business Person of the Year (under age 40), and the Lifetime Achievement Award for any individual doing business in Maui County for more than 20 years.

There is also a Nonprofit Angel Award for businesses with 50 or fewer employees that have contributed significantly to helping support non-profits.

“Since the 1930s, mom-and-pop businesses have been a time-honored part of our neighborhoods,” said Mayor Charmaine Tavares.

“Even in a different era, these entrepreneurs understood the value of building a relationship with their communities in order to succeed. Their customers were generational and remained loyal.”

The winner in each category will receive a beautiful Haunani Mine koa framed commemorative award and stylish window decal, along with a certificate and listing in all award-related press releases distributed to the media.

Finalists and winners will be announced at the “1930s to 2009, Looking Back-Moving Forward” awards dinner on Oct. 23, 2009 at the Wailea Beach Marriott Resort and Spa.

Nomination forms are available by calling or visiting the Maui County Business Resource Center (MCBRC) at Maui Mall (call 873-8247) and at all Central Pacific Bank locations on Maui.

The form is also available online at www.mauicounty.gov/mcbrc.

Completed nomination forms, along with two supporting letters of recommendation, must be received at the MCBRC no later than 4 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 4.

The Mayor’s Small Business Awards originated in 2004 as a way to recognize outstanding small businesses in Maui County.

For more information, call Maui County Small Business Advocate Anna Ribucan at 873-8247.