In celebration of National Small Business Week, Aflac, the leader in voluntary insurance sales at the worksite in the United States, announced the launch of its "More than a Business" contest. Small-business owners and employees across the United States are encouraged to share their story explaining what makes their company "More than a Business" for a chance to win $10,000.

"We understand the challenges and joys of small-business owners because Aflac began as a small business more than six decades ago when three brothers were looking to build their piece of the American Dream," Aflac Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer Gail Galuppo said. "At Aflac, we recognize that a small business is more than a business: It's a career, a dream, part of the community, your family, your passion and so much more. That's why we're so excited to hear and share inspiring stories from small-business owners and employees around the country."

To enter the contest, Aflac is asking small-business owners and employees to submit stories of why their small business is "More than a Business." Entries, which can take the form of a short essay (maximum 500 words), a photo with a description, or a video, can be submitted at aflac.com/morethanabiz or by using the designated hashtag #morethanabizcontest on Twitter or Instagram. Facebook submissions will not be accepted.

The contest is currently open, and Aflac will continue to accept submissions until Saturday, May 27, at 11:59 p.m. EDT. Winners will be announced the week of July 10, 2017. Two grand-prize winners – one small-business owner and one small-business employee – will be chosen, and each will receive $10,000. In addition, four first-prize winners – two small-business owners and two small-business employees – will each receive $5,000.

"Our 2017 Aflac Happiness report shows that small-business employees are among the most satisfied workers in the United States, with 84 percent responding that they are happy with their jobs. With the 'More than a Business' contest, Aflac will celebrate small businesses and the good they do for their communities and their employees," Galuppo added.