Nominate your family business for a 2026 award

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 recognize the outstanding achievements of Central Ohio family businesses at the 28th Annual Family Business Awards & Expo.

The Awards luncheon celebrates honorees across categories that embody the essential elements of family business success: effective generational leadership transitions, innovative solutions to complex business challenges, significant community contributions, and exceptional dedication to their employees, customers, and business partners.

More than 425 companies have been honored in the past 27 years and represent many of Central Ohio's finest family-owned businesses. VIEW our past Award winners.

Nominations are now open for the November 18, 2026 Family Business Awards!

NOMINATE a family business (including your own!) by submitting the nomination form. Nominees do not have to be members of the Conway Center to be considered for an award.

All award categories are listed at the bottom of this page, along with a link to the online nomination form.

The award nomination deadline is JULY 15, 2026. Please contact us if you have any questions.

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