Award Categories

• • Executive of the Year

This prestigious award honors an executive who has made significant contributions to advancing the mission of NAGGL and the 7(a) Loan Program by tirelessly working to close the credit gap for America’s small businesses. This individual demonstrates exceptional leadership, fosters a collaborative and supportive community, ensures the highest standards of accuracy and reliability in their work, and serves as an inspiring example to peers and future leaders in the industry.

• • Origination Excellence Award

The Origination Excellence Award celebrates an individual specializing in loan origination who emulates an unwavering commitment to excellence, goes the extra mile to ensure borrower success, and builds and nurtures strong relationships within their community, furthering the mission of the 7(a) Loan Program.

• • Servicing Excellence Award

The Servicing Excellence Award honors an exceptional individual dedicated to servicing 7(a) loans, who embodies an unwavering commitment to excellence. This person goes above and beyond to ensure borrower success, building and nurturing strong relationships within their community. Their inspiring dedication and outstanding service support the mission of the 7(a) Loan Program, fostering trust, reliability, and the continued growth and success of small businesses they serve.

• • Emerging Leader of the Year

The Emerging Leader of the Year Award celebrates the potential, talent, and contributions of an up-and-coming professional within the SBA 7(a) industry. This engaged individual demonstrates their commitment, championing prudent lending practices for the long-term vitality of the 7(a) Loan Program. Their dedication and leadership promise a bright future for the small business community.

• • Industry Solutions Award

The Industry Solutions Award honors an Associate Member who strengthens industry relations, encourages prudent lending practices, and furthers the mission of the 7(a) Loan Program. Their commitment to collaboration and excellence enhances the overall success and integrity of the 7(a) lending community, making a significant impact on the industry’s growth and sustainability.

Criteria for Nomination

Awards are open to any individual whose company is a current member of NAGGL and actively engaged in the SBA 7(a) lending community.

Nominees should embody NAGGL’s core values of Trust, Community, Accuracy, and Reliability. We seek individuals who demonstrate:

• Prudent lending practices and adherence to industry best practices
• Exceptional due diligence, dependability, and flexibility
• Strong leadership and/or mentorship skills
• A deep commitment to the SBA 7(a) lending industry and their community

How to Nominate

Nominations close on Friday, September 19. If you or someone you know exemplifies these qualities, we encourage you to submit a nomination. Visit our Industry Awards application page to start the nomination process today.