Time to celebrate small businesses

Applications for the 2023 Lord Mayor’s Small Business Awards officially opened on March 29 and the council is seeking nominations for businesses that have helped shape the city.

“Small businesses are the heroes of our city – they keep Melbourne humming, adding vibrancy, character and appeal to our iconic streets and precincts,” Lord Mayor Sally Capp said.

“From hidden gems to well-loved institutions, our Small Business Awards recognise the people and places that make Melbourne so magnetic.”

The award program has run since August 2005, with more than 800 City of Melbourne small business proprietors recognised. Given the struggle over the past couple of years, the council is looking forward to celebrating all milestones again this year.

From small businesses that have been around for 10-plus years, to businesses that are celebrating more than 20 years or 40 years, all milestones are recognised, with one outstanding business awarded Small Business of the Year.

For 2023, the council has also introduced a new category called the Small Business Innovation Award to recognise a City of Melbourne business that is “always looking outside the box to demonstrate excellence through innovation.”

The winners of 2023’s Small Business and the Innovation categories will also receive a cash prize of $3000 and be announced at the annual Lord Mayor’s Small Business Ceremony.

“Now’s your chance to recognise Melbourne’s exceptional small businesses and the people behind them,” Cr Capp said.

“Do you know a legendary and deserving small business in our city? Encourage them to apply for the Lord Mayor’s Small Business Awards today.”

Last year, Southbank’s very own IGA Express Southbank was recognised for its commitment to serving the city for the past 18 years, an achievement that owner Jeff Harper said was nice, as small businesses could often be forgotten.

Nominations for the awards can be made via melbourne.vic.gov.au/smallbusinessawards until April 28