Boston Opens Nominations for 2025 Legacy Business Awards

Boston Opens Nominations for 2025 Legacy Business Awards

Boston has officially opened the nomination period for the fourth annual Legacy Business Awards, inviting residents to recognize the long-standing small businesses that help define the city’s culture and community. Nominations are open now through Friday, October 31, 2025.

Residents can put forward businesses that have been located in Boston for at least 10 years and that contribute to the cultural, historical, and social fabric of their neighborhoods. To submit a nomination, residents can use the online form, visit any Boston Public Library branch for help, or call the Office of Small Business at 617-635-0355.

Since its launch, the Legacy Business Program has honored 90 local businesses representing more than 3,500 years of service across Boston’s neighborhoods. The program highlights the city’s commitment to preserving institutions that not only fuel the local economy but also strengthen community identity.

“Boston’s long-standing businesses serve as anchors for our residents and families, connecting our neighborhoods and communities across the city,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “I encourage residents to nominate local businesses who make our communities strong, vibrant, and welcoming for everyone.”

The process begins with the Office of Small Business verifying eligibility for all nominees. From there, the City Council will create a shortlist of candidates, and a committee—led by the Office of Small Business—will review the list to recommend a final slate of awardees. The goal is to ensure a diverse group of winners by neighborhood, industry, gender, and race.

Awardees will be announced at a public ceremony on June 1, 2026. Winners receive access to grant funding, legal consultation, a commercial lease toolkit, succession planning support, and other resources aimed at helping Boston’s legacy businesses thrive.

City officials say the recognition is about more than just honoring history—it’s about securing the future.

“We encourage residents across the city to honor the impact small business owners make in our neighborhoods,” said Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion. “This initiative helps ensure these community treasures are preserved for generations to come.”

Past winners have reflected on what the recognition has meant to them. Yoma Burmese Restaurant, which has served Boston for over 18 years, said the award honored not just their cuisine but their cultural impact. Greenhills Irish Bakery, a Dorchester favorite for 34 years, called the recognition “icing on the cake.”

The nomination form is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, Haitian Creole, Chinese, Vietnamese, Cape Verdean Creole, Portuguese, Somali, Russian, and French. Each resident may nominate one business.

To learn more or to nominate a local business, visit the Legacy Business Program website.