Lloyd F. Silverman Entrepreneur of the Year Award

Purpose:  To recognize and celebrate a business owner within the Downtown Somerville Special Improvement District (SID) who demonstrates exemplary community engagement, leadership, and philanthropic contribution to the vitality and well-being of Somerville.

Eligibility Criteria

Nominees must:

1. Own or operate a business located within the official boundaries of the Downtown Somerville SID.
2. Be in good standing with the Borough of Somerville (no outstanding violations or unpaid fees).
3. Have operated their business in the SID for at least one full year as of January 1st of the nomination year.
4. Demonstrate meaningful contributions to the community through:
   • Volunteerism or support of local causes
   • Participation in Downtown Somerville events or initiatives
   • Support of other local businesses
   • Sustainability and inclusivity practices
5. Not be a current board member, employee, or contractor of the Downtown Somerville Alliance.

Nominating Process

• Nominations Open: January 15, 2026
• Deadline for Submission: March 1, 2026
• Nomination Methods:
  • Self-nomination
  • Peer nomination by another business, community member, or organization
• How to Nominate: Complete the official nomination form – link will be available here on January 15th – and submit by the deadline.

Announcement & Recognition

• Winner Announcement Date: First Friday of June, 2026
• Venue: Public recognition at Downtown Somerville’s First Friday Event
• Awards Package Includes:
  • Trophy or plaque
  • Feature article and video spotlight on DSA website and social media
  • Promotion in local press release and newsletter
  • Opportunity to serve as judge for the following year’s award

Selection Committee Process

1. Composition:
   The selection committee will consist of 5 members:
   • 2 DSA Board Members (not eligible for nomination)
   • 1 Borough Representative
   • 1 Past Entrepreneur of the Year recipient (if applicable)
   • 1 Community Leader (e.g., nonprofit, school, or civic organization representative)
2. Review Process:
   • All nominations are reviewed anonymously (nominee names removed during scoring)
   • Each committee member scores nominations using a rubric based on criteria
   • Top 3 scorers are discussed in a final meeting for consensus selection
3. Scoring Rubric (out of 100 points total):
   • Community Engagement (20 points)
   • Support of Local Economy and Businesses (20 points)
   • Civic Participation and Volunteerism (20 points)
   • Innovation and Leadership (20 points)
   • Overall Impact (20 points)