About the Business Awards Program

The City Council first launched the Saint Paul Business Awards in 2017. The program recognizes businesses that invest in their companies and the Saint Paul community. Each year, the public is invited to nominate a business for this recognition.

Since 2024, award recipients have been featured on digital billboards through our partner, Clear Channel. They have expressed interest in continuing to support the Business Awards Program by highlighting winners for approximately four weeks at various St. Paul locations.

“Saint Paul businesses are one of the city’s most valuable resources in providing jobs, goods, and distinctive services to our community. Our Saint Paul Business Awards Program is a grand opportunity to recognize them for their investments, passion, and positive impact. This is especially important during trying times like what we experienced with Operation Metro Surge. I look forward to seeing all the category nominations.”  - Council Vice President Nelsie Yang

Nominations and applications for the 2026 Business Awards Program restarted on September 14, 2026. Applications end on November 9. Nominations end on November 6.

Eligibility Requirements

To be eligible for an award, a business must:

  • Be located in Saint Paul.
  • Be committed to equity, diversity, and empowerment, and provide outstanding customer service.
  • Be involved in the community or make attempts to better the community as a whole.
  • NOT have been selected by the committee for an award within the last five years. 
  • NOT be a non‐profit organization.
  • Demonstrate commitment to the community through volunteer work and contributions.
  • Be in good standing with the City of Saint Paul (i.e., no outstanding fees, abatement issues, etc.). 
  • Have the application form filled out.

Applying for a Saint Paul Business Awards

Looking to apply?

Applications for the 2026 Business Awards program will open on September 14, 2026.

QR Code for Business Awards Application Website

To learn more about eligibility requirements and view past award recipients, please visit the Saint Paul Business Awards

Awards Category

This is a table of the different types of awards, their descriptions, and criteria.

Alice O'Brien Award - Honoring a woman-owned business committed to equity and empowerment. 
Good Neighbor Award - Honoring a business that has demonstrated dedication to improving the community.
New Kid on the Block Award - Honoring a business that has opened in Saint Paul within the last five years. 
People’s Choice Award - Recognizing a business celebrated by Saint Paul residents for its excellence. 
Traditions Award - Honoring a business that has been active in Saint Paul for at least twenty years.
Small but Mighty Award - Honoring a single owner-operated business with fewer than 5 employees. Small in size but mighty in impact on the community.