Here at Salesforce, we’ve seen how small businesses are at the forefront of innovation, always coming up with new ideas that revolutionize markets, spur the economy, and change the way we live.

To give those entrepreneurs the recognition they deserve, we’re kicking off our second annual Small Business, Big Impact Contest. This is our opportunity to support growing businesses that are introducing new products, solutions, or services that positively impact our communities.

If you’re a small business with big ideas, this is your chance to win up to $45,000 in prizes.

How does it work?

First, you need to be an innovative, big-dreaming small business. Once you check that off the list, then tell us how your business is solving a problem or making a change that you believe matters. To give you some idea of how diverse those ideas can be, have a quick look at our finalists from last year:

• Suneris delivers a plant-based gel that can stop bleeding in seconds.
• Zola manufactures energy-efficient windows and doors.
• PresenceLearning provides live, online special education services.
• Latitude helps non-profit organizations drive brand authenticity and transparency.
• Pley (the 2015 grand-prize winner!) offers a “Netflix for toys” rental service that helps the environment by recycling toys and reducing waste — and they donate a toy to an underprivileged child each time a new member signs up.

What will you get?

This year, we’ll choose five finalists to fly out to the Inc. 5000 Conference and Gala in San Antonio to present to a panel of VIP judges. They’ll select one business to receive the grand prize of up to $45,000 in Salesforce products and services, plus the chance to give $7,000 in Salesforce.org subscriptions and services to a non­profit of their choice. 

The deadline for submissions is September 10. If you’ve got some creative ideas brewing, go ahead and fill out our contest submission now!