SBA Vermont names Rigorous Technology owners Small Business Persons of the Year

Vermont Business Magazine The U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) announced its state and territory Small Business Persons of the Year for National Small Business Week (NSBW), which will take place from May 3 – 9, 2026. SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler will recognize the state, territory, and specialty award winners at a national awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on May 3rd.

The SBA will recognize Diane Abruzzini and Colin Riggs of Rigorous Technology Inc for their impact and economic contributions in Vermont on June 11 at an event hosted by VermontBiz. Rigorous is an industrial robotics company based in Williston. Since founding Rigorous in 2020 as a homebased business, Diane and Colin have grown their operations to include a team of 12, currently occupying 10,000 square feet across multiple buildings.

Diane Abruzzini, Chief Operating Officer, Rigorous Technology

Colin Riggs, Chief Executive Officer, Rigorous Technology

“I am pleased to congratulate the SBA’s Small Business Week Award Winners from across New England and right here in Vermont,” said Peter A. Steele, SBA New England Regional Administrator. “From our farms and factory floors to the frontiers of technology, our local small business owners are working hard every day to drive innovation, strengthen local economies and provide the products and services that keep America competitive, secure and strong. Whether they are one-person operations or companies with hundreds of employees, these small businesses contribute to our local, regional and national economy, create good-paying jobs for our friends and families and enhance the vitality of our Main Streets and communities.”

SBA Administrator Kelly Loeffler will acknowledge Diane and Colin, who are in the running for the National Small Business Person of the Year, on May 3 at the National Small Business Week kick off and awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.

“Vermont’s SBA award winners highlight the creativity, resilience, and achievements of our small business communities across the Green Mountain State,” said Adam Locklin, District Director, SBA Vermont District Office. “We are proud to celebrate this group of individuals and businesses powering Vermont’s economy.”