~ Boston Mayor Michelle Wu announced the recipients of the 2026 Legacy Business Awards, an annual event that recognizes businesses that have been operating in the city for at least a decade and have made significant contributions to their communities. This year's cohort of 30 businesses represents 18 different neighborhoods in Boston and collectively, they have been in business for over 1,000 years. The awards were presented at a ceremony on Monday, June 1st, 2026 and photos from the event can be viewed online.

In her statement, Mayor Wu emphasized the importance of these longstanding businesses to the city's civic life and its residents. She expressed her excitement to celebrate their achievements and looked forward to their continued success in making Boston a welcoming and vibrant place for everyone.

This is the fourth year of the Legacy Business Program, which recognizes independent enterprises that have made a positive impact on Boston's residents, communities, and neighborhoods. By supporting these businesses on an annual basis, Mayor Wu's administration aims to build upon its efforts to make Boston an inclusive city for all.

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The Mayor's Office of Small Business, located within the Economic Opportunity and Inclusion Cabinet, received a record-breaking number of nominations this year with over 2,020 submissions. Out of those nominations, 347 qualified businesses were put forward by residents. To be eligible for consideration, businesses must be located in Boston and have been operating at their current location for at least ten years.

The selection process was rigorous with residents nominating businesses that were then reviewed by the City Council. A committee consisting of representatives from various City departments and Boston Main Streets then selected finalists based on application scoring and community support.

Aliesha Porcena, Director of Small Business for the City of Boston, described the Legacy Business Award as a cornerstone for any business. She acknowledged that these longstanding establishments are integral to their communities and expressed her honor in celebrating their success and longevity. Porcena also highlighted the daily contributions these businesses make to their neighborhoods and the city as a whole.

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The list of awardees includes a diverse range of businesses from different neighborhoods, such as @UNION in Allston, Amanda's Flowers in Brighton, and Boston Building Resources in Roxbury. Other recipients include Cafe Polonia in South Boston, Caffe Paradiso in the North End, and Center Cuts Salon and Spa in Roslindale.

One of the awardees, Helen's Leather Shop in Beacon Hill, has been a family-owned business for generations. Lise Weller, a member of the family who runs the shop, expressed her gratitude for being recognized and shared how special it was to have multiple generations of her family present at the ceremony to celebrate their business's success.

The Office of Small Business is dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs by providing them with resources and guidance to start, grow, and sustain their businesses in Boston. Since 2022, they have provided over 11,608 hours of one-on-one Technical Assistance to more than 530 businesses. They have also funded over 70 storefront signage and facade renovation projects and streamlined processes for participation in the annual Outdoor Dining program.

Mayor Wu's administration remains committed to supporting small businesses and recognizing their contributions to Boston's communities. The Legacy Business Awards serve as a reminder of the vital role these establishments play in making Boston a thriving city for all its residents.

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