Illinois Rep. Ugaste Receives NFIB’s Guardian of Small Business Award

September 12, 2024 Last Edit: June 5, 2025

Illinois Rep. Ugaste Receives NFIB’s Guardian of Small Business Award

The National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB) presented Illinois Representative Dan Ugaste with its 2024 Guardian of Small Business Award (Guardian Award). NFIB’s Guardian Award recognizes leaders who stand up for and advocate on behalf of small businesses. It is NFIB’s most prestigious legislative award. Rep. Ugaste was selected for the award by a panel of small business owners from across the state. “Rep. Ugaste is a proven friend of small business,” said Noah Finley, Illinois State Director for NFIB. “As the minority spokesperson of the House Labor & Commerce Committee, he consistently advocates for small businesses and pushes his fellow legislators to consider the impact of new laws and regulations upon Illinois’ Main Street community.” “I am humbled and honored to receive this award from NFIB,” Rep. Ugaste stated. “I will always be a strong advocate for small businesses, and I will continue to push for legislation in Springfield that puts their best interests first.” Rep. Ugaste represents the 65th District in the Illinois House and serves as the minority spokesperson on the House Labor & Commerce Committee. He earned a 100% voting record with NFIB for the 2023-2024 legislative session. NFIB is the leading small business association in Illinois, advocating on behalf of its members in both Springfield and Washington, DC.