Showcase your business at the Expo - reserve your spot!

Register for the Awards & Expo on November 18, 2026

Central Ohio’s Only Awards Program Celebrating Family Businesses

Join us on Wednesday, November 18, 2026, at the Hilton Easton in Columbus as we celebrate Central Ohio's finest family-owned businesses at the 28th Annual Family Business Awards & Expo.

This year's luncheon shines a spotlight on honorees who truly represent what makes family businesses thrive — smooth generational transitions, creative problem-solving in the face of complex challenges, deep-rooted community involvement, and an unwavering commitment to the people who matter most: their employees, customers, and partners.

Over the past 27 years, more than 425 companies have earned this distinction, forming a legacy of some of the most respected family-owned businesses in Central Ohio.

VIEW our past Award winners.

Sponsorships are available at multiple levels, each including recognition in our event materials. You can further boost your visibility with an ad in our printed program distributed to all 400+ Awards Luncheon attendees. View ad specs.

Award Categories

Nominations are available year-round. We are now accepting nominations for our 2026 program! Click on the categories below to view the description of each award.

Conway Center Champion

Recognizes organizations or individuals that have shown significant support to the success of the Conway Center or who have made substantial gifts during life, and/or have included the Conway Center for Family Business in their estate plans.

Nominate

Family Business of the Year

Recognizes a family business that has made a significant contribution to their industry or the Central Ohio business community. Winner in this category will be asked to give short remarks.

Nominate

J. Richard Emens Lifetime Achievement

Recognizes a family business leader who has made a significant contribution to their industry or the Central Ohio business community. Winner in this category will be asked to give short remarks.

Nominate

Milestone Achievement

Recognizes family businesses that have reached a significant anniversary milestone during the award year.

Nominate

Resiliency Award

Recognizes a family business that has persevered, re-invented themselves, worked hard on sustainability of the family business, and/or that has come back from adversity.

Nominate