Sierra Elbert Selected as Small Business Person of the Year for Iowa by U.S. Small Business Administration. Awardees from across the United States will be honored during National Small Business Week in Washington, D.C.

EMMETSBURG, IA – March 30, 2026 – Ahead of National Small Business Week, the U.S. Small Business Administration announced this year’s Small Business Persons of the Year winners from the 50 states, the District of Columbia, Puerto Rico, and Guam. Sierra Elbert, President of Groom Curriculum, was selected as Iowa’s Small Business Person of the Year for 2026.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition,” said Elbert. “Groom Curriculum connects workforce pipelines to the pet industry, creates career opportunities, and equips individuals with trade skills that can change their lives.”

Co-founded by Elbert and Iowa native Patricia Pierce, Groom Curriculum has established a national workforce pipeline connecting education with pet industry careers. The program partners with colleges, high schools, correctional programs, and vocational institutions to provide structured, industry-aligned training. This approach helps students develop job-ready skills, earn industry-recognized credentials, and access career opportunities in professional grooming.

Under Elbert’s leadership, Groom Curriculum has expanded nationwide, increasing access to trade education in the pet industry through apprenticeships and institutional partnerships.

Each year, the SBA celebrates National Small Business Week by recognizing the achievements of outstanding small business owners and entrepreneurs across the United States. All 53 winners have been invited to attend ceremonies in Washington, D.C., May 3–4, where they will be honored with their individual award, along with special recognition of the runner-up and the naming of the 2026 National Small Business Person of the Year.

SBA will also co-host a free, two-day national virtual summit featuring educational business workshops and networking on May 5–6. Additionally, SBA’s ten regions and 68 field offices will hold area recognition and educational seminars throughout the week. To get involved in National Small Business Week activities and see all the 2026 awardees, visit www.sba.gov/nsbw.