The Charles River Regional Chamber is now accepting nominations for the inaugural Newton Small Business Awards, a new celebration recognizing Newton-based businesses, nonprofits, and individuals who have made a meaningful impact in the past year.

Awards will be presented at a special event this fall (date and location to be announced soon), bringing together Newton’s business and nonprofit community for an evening of recognition, networking, and celebration. The event will feature local food and drink, spotlighting the people and organizations that help Newton thrive.

Nominations are due Sunday, Aug. 3, and can be submitted here.

Award Categories

Public Choice Awards (to be voted on by the public in August):

• Best New Small Business (opened in 2024 or later)
  
  
• Outstanding Independent Retailer of the Year.
  
  
• Outstanding Independent Restaurant of the Year

Judges-selected awards (honorees will be determined by our awards committee from among the nominations).

• Small businessperson of the year: A small business owner or operator who exemplifies leadership and resilience. They play a key role in shaping the business landscape and addressing challenges faced by small businesses.
  
  
• Nonprofit Leader of the Year: A standout leader of a Newton-based nonprofit who has made a measurable impact in the past year. This person is a visionary changemaker, advancing their mission while making a meaningful contribution to the broader community. Employees of the Chamber are not eligible.
  
  
• Small Business Champion of the Year: An individual who has gone above and beyond to advocate for Newton’s small businesses, either during the past year or continuously throughout many years of doing business in the city. This award is for someone who is not a business owner. Employees of the Chamber are not eligible.

For more details or to submit a nomination, visit the event webpage or contact the Charles River Regional Chamber at info@charlesriverchamber.com. 

For Press Inquiries, contact mwoolf@charlesriverchamber.com