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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
June 28, 2024

Contact
Greta Delaune, Phone: 651-266-8684 | Email: Greta.Delaune@ci.stpaul.mn.us    
Nhia Vang, Phone: 651-266-8566 | Email: Nhia.Vang@ci.stpaul.mn.us  

Honor an exceptional Saint Paul business with a nomination for the City Council’s 8th Annual Business Awards
Saint Paul will be accepting Business Awards nominations starting July 1st

SAINT PAUL – Starting Monday, July 1, 2024, the Saint Paul City Council will begin accepting nominations for the Business Awards Program. Founded in 2015 in partnership with the Open for Business initiative, the Business Awards Program aims to support the Saint Paul community in their efforts to create an attractive atmosphere for residents to grow and thrive. City Council Vice President and Ward 5 Councilmember HwaJeong Kim stated, “Saint Paul is home to many diverse and unique businesses who contribute to the fabric of our city. The 8th Annual Business Awards will be an exciting celebration of the many great businesses and entrepreneurs who help make this city a great place to be.”  

Ward 7 Councilmember Cheniqua Johnson shared that “Saint Paul businesses are so much more than just businesses. They play such a pivotal role in connection and community for our neighborhoods, so I am excited to see the many ways the Business Awards will uplift and celebrate the innovation and creativity that is happening every day in our city.”

Ward 3 Councilmember Saura Jost said, “The businesses of Saint Paul are where our everyday lives happen. We’re happy to highlight and celebrate the work they do to make our city such a special place.”

Each year, the Saint Paul City Council recognizes businesses in five award categories. Community members, residents, employees, and business owners are invited to submit nominations at www.stpaul.gov/bizawards or encourage a deserving business to apply for these awards. Visit the business awards page to learn about past winners, the awards categories, and criteria for submitting nominations or applications.  

“It was a huge honor to be selected for this award,” said Matt Kenevan, owner of Dabbler Depot and the winner of the 2023 Good Neighbor Award. “In the last year I opened up two more Saint Paul retail businesses and immediately jumped into action to make the neighborhood a better place. The Good Neighbor Award is a lifestyle in any business that I run. I know the neighbors are more apt to support us when we support them.”  

The 2024 Business Awards nomination period begins on July 1st, 2024, and ends on August 23rd, 2024. Applications and nominations are open to all types of businesses. A selection committee made up of past award recipients will decide the winners. Recipients of the Business Awards will be recognized at a Saint Paul City Council meeting in September 2024. The Saint Paul City Council eagerly awaits the community's nominations and extends its best wishes to the businesses. 

Award Categories: 

  • Alice O'Brien Award - Honoring a woman-owned business that is committed to equity and empowerment.
  • Good Neighbor Award - Honoring a business that shows a dedication to improving the community.
  • Traditions Award - Honoring a business that has been active in Saint Paul for at least 20 years.
  • People’s Choice Award - Honoring a business that is recognized for its excellence by Saint Paul residents.
  • New Kid on the Block Award - Honoring a business that has opened in Saint Paul within the last five years.

Nominations must be submitted no later than August 23, 2024, by 12:00 PM CST.  All applications for consideration must be submitted no later than August 30, 2024, by 12:00 PM CST. Find more information and nominate a business at www.stpaul.gov/bizawards.

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Last Edited: June 27, 2024