With innovative products and services, small businesses are vital to our community. They create good jobs. They add character to our neighborhoods. Here’s a way to recognize your favorite small business that’s making life better in Seattle.

We’re now accepting nominations for the 2009 Mayor’s Small Business Awards. The 2009 Awards will honor the diversity and excellence of Seattle’s small businesses, and their contribution to the city’s economic vitality and quality of life. Ten winners will be selected on the basis of excellence in management, entrepreneurial spirit, customer service, and community involvement.

2009 marks the 25th year of the Mayor’s Small Business Awards program. Over the last two decades, the awards program has recognized more than 240 small businesses, many of which have gone on to experience significant growth. Past recipients include such companies as: Starbucks Coffee Company (1984), Uwajimaya (1984), Ezell’s Fried Chicken (1989), the Dilettante (1990) and City People’s Mercantile (1993). Last year’s winners included Arab Film Distribution / Typecast Films; Compendium, Inc.; glassybaby LLC; and Macrina Bakery & Café.

The deadline for submitting nomination forms is Wednesday, Sept. 2, 2009. Winners will be announced at an awards ceremony at Town Hall on Oct. 13, 2009.

Anyone can nominate a small business. Learn more about the program:
Office of Economic Development

To request a nomination form, please contact Stephanie Beechem at (206) 684-0133 or stephanie.beechem@seattle.gov or download the form:
Nomination form