First-Ever Baltimore Small Business Community Heroes Launches

Baltimore, MD (June 11, 2014) - Direct Energy and 435 Digital by The Baltimore Sun announce the launch of the first-ever Baltimore Small Business Community Heroes award program. Nominations are now being accepted until Monday, July 21, 2014. The online nomination form can be found by visiting www.directenergy.com/heroes.

The Small Business Community Heroes award program is designed to recognize the significant efforts of small business owners, with 100 employees or less, whose voluntary contributions make their communities a better place to live.

"Direct Energy Business is thrilled to be working with 435 Digital by The Baltimore Sun to bring this program to the Baltimore region," said Steve Girard, head of small business, Direct Energy Business. "Direct Energy is committed to serving its many residential and business customers in Baltimore and throughout Maryland. We applaud all of the wonderful volunteers and look forward to recognizing those small business owners that devote their time for the greater good of the community."

The award itself consists of:

• $500 cash prize to the winner
• $2,000 donation to the winner's organization/cause of choice in their respective community
• Recognition of winner's achievement through a commemorative award

The Small Business Community Heroes award is open to all residents of communities in the Baltimore area. Individuals can either nominate themselves or be nominated by another individual or group. Nominations should be no longer than 750 words and must detail the specific contributions the small business owner has made to improve the community through volunteer service. In addition, the nomination needs to include a write up, of no more than 250 words, about the nominee's small business.

"As a partner with many small business leaders in the Baltimore area, 435 Digital by The Baltimore Sun is proud to join with Direct Energy in recognizing those leaders who give back to their communities," said Renee Mutchnik, marketing director for The Baltimore Sun Media Group.

Nominations must be submitted by Monday, July 21, 2014 by 11:59 p.m. A selection committee from Direct Energy and 435 Digital by The Baltimore Sun will review all submissions, and the winner will be announced in August. Complete rules, the official nomination form, and all other information are available online at www.directenergy.com/heroes.

For further information, please contact:
Andrea Romo
Direct Energy
andrea.romo@directenergy.com
412-667-5207