National Small Business Week 2026 runs from May 3-9. The Kansas Small Business Development Center (SBDC) is excited to partner with the Small Business Administration’s Wichita office for the National Small Business Week Event from 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Thursday, May 7 in the Hughes Metropolitan Complex, where they will honor Harlow Aerostructures LLC, the recipient of the 2026 Kansas Small Business Persons of the Year Award.

The half-day event will help equip local small businesses with the tools and knowledge to succeed. Business owners will have the opportunity to connect to resources in the area, learn more about certifications and contracting opportunities, and celebrate the impressive winners and nominees of the Small Business of the Year Award in a ceremony that begins at noon. The event is sponsored by 316 Health, Textron Aviation and Bank of America.

On Tuesday, May 5, the City of Wichita issued a proclamation recognizing both Small Business Week and Harlow Aerostructures LLC as the SBA’s 2026 Kansas Small Business Persons of the Year Award recipient. This award acknowledges the outstanding accomplishments of local leaders along with their dedication to driving economic growth.

The Kansas Small Business Development Center at Wichita State announced the launch of the 2026 GenAI Pitch Competition, a high-impact entrepreneurial event focused on accelerating technological innovation for small and medium-sized businesses.

In partnership with AWS and Futran Solutions, the competition will award at least $50,000 in technology grants to businesses that deliver the most compelling three-minute pitches, showcasing how AI technology could strengthen their operations or expand their market potential. Applicants must submit an application and business plan for evaluation. Judges will evaluate innovation, feasibility and long-term impact on business growth.