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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 10, 2026
Honor an exceptional Saint Paul business with a nomination for the City Council’s 10th Annual Business Awards
SAINT PAUL, MN — Today, the Saint Paul City Council will begin accepting nominations and applications for the 2026 Saint Paul Business Awards. Now in its 10th year, this program honors the Saint Paul businesses that serve as the heart and soul of our neighborhoods, contributing to the city’s economic vitality, cultural richness, and community spirit.
Founded in 2015 as part of the City Council’s Open for Business initiative, the awards recognize businesses that provide critical services, invest in their employees, and demonstrate a commitment to Saint Paul’s values of equity and diversity.
“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
This year, we will be introducing a new award category recognizing microbusiness owners based on the increase in applications over the last few years. It is named the Small but Mighty Award.
The 2026 Award Categories include:
- Alice O’Brien Award: Honoring a woman-owned business that is committed to equity and empowerment.
- Good Neighbor Business Award: Honoring a business that shows a dedication to improving the community through service, jobs, or local partnerships.
- New Kid on the Block Award: Honoring a business that has opened in Saint Paul within the last 5 years.
- People’s Choice Award: Honoring a business that is recognized for its excellence by Saint Paul residents.
- Traditions Award: Honoring a business that has been active in Saint Paul for at least 20 years.
- [NEW] Small but Mighty Award: Honoring single owner-operated business with less than 5 employees. Small in size but mighty in impact on the community.
Applications and nominations are open to all Saint Paul business. Winners will be selected by a committee of past award winners. The 2026 winners will be honored at a special City Council meeting in November 2026. Clear Channel continues to be a partner in supporting the Saint Paul business community and generously agreed to feature winners on their digital billboards throughout Saint Paul.
How to Participate: To submit a nomination, complete an application, or learn more about past winners, please visit the official Saint Paul Business Awards website at www.stpaul.gov/bizawards.
Deadlines: to be considered please fill out the forms on time. Both the nominations and applications will begin September 14th.
- Nominations must be submitted by November 16, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. CST
- Applications must be submitted by November 23, 2026, at 12:00 p.m. CST
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