Boston Opened Nominations for 2027 Legacy Business Awards

The city initiative honors local establishments that have operated for at least a decade.

Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Openings & Closings

Boston Opened Nominations for 2027 Legacy Business Awards

Live Poll

Do you believe city-led award programs are effective at helping local businesses survive?

On September 23, 2026, the Boston Office of Small Business launched the nomination process for the 2027 Legacy Business Awards. The city program, now in its fifth year, aims to support and preserve businesses with at least 10 years of operation.

Why it matters

The program seeks to recognize long-standing businesses while providing necessary resources to help these establishments avoid displacement. By highlighting iconic local firms, the city aims to preserve the commercial character of its diverse neighborhoods.

The city selects 30 total winners each year from a pool of 65 finalists. Eligible participants must be for-profit entities that have maintained a presence in Boston for a minimum of 10 years.

The players

Boston Office of Small Business

This city agency manages programs and resources dedicated to supporting local entrepreneurs and small business growth.

Boston City Council

The local legislative body is responsible for selecting the list of award finalists from the pool of public nominations.

The details

The public can submit nominations for their favorite neighborhood businesses, which are then vetted by City Councilors based on district or at-large status. Finalists undergo a formal application process before the final group of 30 winners is selected to receive a cash prize and advertising support.

Nominations for the awards opened on September 23, 2026.
The nomination window continues throughout October 2026.
Winners will be recognized at an award ceremony in the spring of 2027.

Market Landscape

This program reflects a broader trend of municipal intervention aimed at protecting local economies from rising commercial real estate costs. By validating the brand equity of long-term tenants, the city actively works to maintain the unique commercial fabric of its districts.

Residents can actively support their favorite long-standing neighborhood shops by submitting formal nominations for the awards. Selected winners benefit from direct financial support and marketing assistance, which can help those businesses remain open for customers.

The takeaway

Supporting long-standing local businesses preserves the cultural identity and economic diversity of city neighborhoods. Residents should look for businesses that have reached their tenth year of operation to nominate them for this annual city recognition.