Small businesses are the heartbeat of communities across New Jersey and around the country, creating jobs, filling critical needs, and helping local economies grow. And during National Small Business Month, Citizens is shining a spotlight on businesses making a real difference through its 2026 Small Business Community Champion Awards. Now in its ninth year, the program has directed nearly $2 million to small businesses working to strengthen their communities while building long-term sustainability.

Joining us now is Nuno Francisco, Business Banking Market Executive at Citizens, to talk about this year’s winners, what he’s hearing from business owners here in New Jersey, and what it takes for small businesses to succeed in today’s economy.