Every business venture starts with an idea. But the true testament of entrepreneurship is cultivating ideas into action. Now in its 14th year, the Black Enterprise Small Business Awards highlight entrepreneurs who demonstrate the tenacity and creative thinking that’s needed to thrive in the midst of entrepreneurial uncertainty. The winners of the 2009 Small Business Awards will be announced at the Black Enterprise Entrepreneurs Conference + Expo hosted by General Motors and ExxonMobil, May 17—20 in Detroit. Following are the finalists of our annual Small Business Awards: