Submit Your Small Business for Chance to Win Big

At a time when some 37 million people now work online as independent contractors, Elance is sponsoring a “New Way To Work Contest” to spotlight these pioneers. Grand prize: A year’s worth of health insurance premiums or $10,000 in cash. Participants must showcase their "new way to work" through any medium they choose; publish and promote their example to capture the attention and imagination of a broader online community; and notify contest judges (I'm one of them) of their effort via Twitter or by posting a link on Elance`s Facebook fan page. Click for guidelines.

Small business owners are the backbone of the U.S. economy, which is why American Express and NBC Universal are partnering on the Shine A Light program to recognize entrepreneurs for their innovation, community spirit and customer service. Entrepreneurs are eligible to win a $50,000 grant and $50,000 in marketing support from American Express. You could win a $3,000 American Express gift card if you nominate a small business which is chosen as a finalist.