Yes, according to research done by the National Federation of Independent Business (NFIB). "Our research shows that small firms are twice as innovative per employee as larger firms, and the companies who entered demonstrate that fact," said NFIB president and CEO Todd Stottlemyer. The companies that Stottlemyer's referring to are the 10 finalists for the fifth annual Dell/NFIB Small Business Excellence Award. To find out who made the cut, go to the award website.

The finalists will now compete for the national award, to be announced June 9 at the National Small Business Summit in Washington, DC.

Business.gov has gone green. Check out the green release of the website. The green launch was planned in conjunction with Earth Day, and includes a host of tools for small-business owners wanting to help their business become more eco-friendly. The site now offers green tips for both small and home based businesses, in addition to a new search widget for environmental regulations and business practices. Business.gov also shares several new resources for green vendors, green product procurement, and making environmental claims.

The site will stay green through the end of May, but all green content will remain.