Recognition for small businesses

Recognition for small businesses

Eligible local small businesses are invited to apply for this year’s Lord Mayor’s Commendations.

The annual awards, which started in 2005, recognise the commitment of long-term independent small and multi-generational businesses.

Business owners are eligible to apply for a bronze commendation after 10 or more years of operation in the municipality, a silver commendation after 25 or more years of operation, a gold commendation after 40 or more years and a platinum commendation after 50 or more years.

Families that have operated the same business in Melbourne for more than three generations are eligible for the Generational Family Business Commendation.

According to Lord Mayor Robert Doyle, small operators make up 80 per cent of all businesses in the City of Melbourne.

“Small businesses are the backbone of our healthy economy, they add character, colour and vibrancy to our streets, are a significant source of employment and enhance our reputation as the world’s most liveable city,” Cr Doyle said.

“Applications for this year’s commendations are now open and I encourage operators and their customers to nominate and be part of this uniquely Melbourne tradition.”

Since 2005 the commendations have recognised more than 500 small business owners, 18 family businesses and 20 recipients who had been in business in Melbourne for more than 50 years.

Applications are open until Friday, May 20 and the ceremony will be held on September 7.

For information visit http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/about-melbourne/celebrating-melbourne/lord-mayors-commendations or call 9658 9658.

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