CO—100: A National Opportunity for Veteran-Owned Businesses to Gain Recognition and Grow
For Veteran-owned businesses, growth often comes from more than just winning contracts. It comes from building credibility, increasing visibility and creating meaningful connections with customers, partners and decision-makers.
That’s why the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s annual CO—100 program is worth a closer look.
Applications are now open for the 2026 CO—100, a national awards program that recognizes 100 of the most innovative, impactful and successful small businesses in America. The program celebrates companies that are driving growth, creating jobs, strengthening communities and demonstrating excellence in areas such as innovation, customer service, company culture and market expansion.
What Is the CO—100?
The CO—100 is the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s annual recognition program highlighting the nation’s top small businesses. Businesses can apply in multiple categories, including:
- Growth Accelerators
- Community Champions
- Customer Champions
- Tech Innovators
- Global Stars
- Culture Champions
- Enduring Businesses
- Champions of Adaptability
- Micro-Business Leaders
- The Disruptors
The program is designed to recognize businesses that are not only achieving success but also making a positive impact in their industries and communities.
Why Veteran-Owned Businesses Should Consider Applying
Veteran entrepreneurs know the value of standing out in a competitive marketplace. Recognition through a nationally respected organization like the U.S. Chamber of Commerce can help validate your business accomplishments and open doors to new opportunities.
CO—100 honorees receive:
- National recognition as one of America’s top small businesses
- A business profile on the U.S. Chamber’s CO— platform
- Networking opportunities with fellow business leaders and industry experts
- VIP access to the CO—100 awards experience in Washington, D.C.
- Opportunities for media exposure and thought leadership visibility
For Veteran-owned businesses seeking to expand into corporate supply chains, build brand awareness, or establish new partnerships, this type of exposure can be invaluable.
Financial Awards and Additional Benefits
In addition to recognition, ten businesses will be selected as category winners and receive $2,000 awards. One business will earn the title of CO— Top Business 2026 and receive a $25,000 grand prize.
Every applicant also receives a one-year U.S. Chamber of Commerce membership, providing access to additional resources, advocacy and educational opportunities.
How NaVOBA Certification Strengthens Your Story
Programs like CO—100 reward businesses that can clearly demonstrate leadership, innovation, impact and growth.
For NaVOBA-certified Veteran’s Business Enterprises® (VBEs) and Service-Disabled Veteran’s Business Enterprises® (SDVBEs), certification provides an additional layer of credibility that can help strengthen an application. Certification demonstrates verified Veteran ownership and a commitment to excellence; qualities that resonate with customers, corporate buyers and award judges alike.
Whether you’re highlighting community impact, customer success, business growth or industry innovation, your certification can help reinforce the story behind your achievements.
Eligibility and Application Information
To be eligible for the 2026 CO—100, businesses must have fewer than 250 employees or generate less than $20 million in gross revenue for both 2024 and 2025. Applications are open through July 23, 2026.
Veteran-owned businesses that have built strong teams, created innovative solutions, or made meaningful contributions to their communities should consider taking advantage of this opportunity.
Put Your Business in the National Spotlight
Veteran-owned businesses are making an impact across every industry in America. The CO—100 offers a chance to showcase those accomplishments on a national stage while connecting with a broader network of business leaders and decision-makers.
If your company is driving growth, creating opportunities and making a difference, now may be the perfect time to share your story.
Use discount code NAVOBA50 at checkout for 50% off the application fee!
Apply by July 23, 2026, and let your Veteran-owned business compete for national recognition among America’s top small businesses.
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