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          Join us for an engaging panel discussion that will explore what it takes to build a digital-first brand that resonates in today’s hyper-connected, content-saturated landscape.

          04/28/2026

          5:30pm - 7:30pm

          Santander

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          Massachusetts Apprentice Network

          The Massachusetts Apprentice Network convenes employers, training providers, and talent sources interested in developing and implementing apprenticeship programs in occupations across industries and statewide in fields such as tech, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, financial services, and more.

          Read More
          Strategic Communication for Better Collaboration

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Chamber Announces 2026 Small Business of the Year Honorees

PRESS RELEASE

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

April 13, 2026

Media Contacts:

Casey Baines [email protected]

Mattie Holloway [email protected]

Chamber Announces 2026 Small Business of the Year Honorees

Six Local Businesses Celebrated for Immense Economic Growth & Impact

BOSTON, MA—The Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and its foundation are pleased to award six Massachusetts small businesses with the title of Small Business of the Year. The Chamber’s annual Small Business of the Year Awards celebrate the remarkable vision, resilience, and contributions of small businesses that lead in the categories of Talent Development & Inclusion, Cultural Excellence, Community Impact, Innovation and Growth, Small Business Champion, and CEO Leadership.

“Congratulations to the Chamber’s 2026 Small Business of the Year honorees! Small businesses are the backbone of our economy, strengthening our competitiveness and creating a positive impact in our neighborhoods and communities. The Chamber is proud to celebrate the hard work and contributions of these six outstanding businesses.” said James E. Rooney, President & CEO of the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce.

2026 Small Business of the Year Award Categories and Honorees are as follows:

Talent Development & Inclusion: And Still We Rise

Founded in 2018 by Dr. Natasha Holmes, And Still We Rise (ASWR) is a liberation-focused collective offering mental health services and equity-centered consulting grounded in justice, healing, and collective care. ASWR supports individuals—and the spaces where they live, work, and learn—in navigating the impacts of systemic oppression while building toward equity, wellness, and systemic change.

Cultural Excellence: Another Age Productions

Another Age Productions (AAP) is an Emmy® Award-winning video production company and studio rental provider in Boston. AAP specializes in corporate video production, branded content, live event streaming, commercials, documentaries, and social media marketing videos—helping businesses, agencies, and brands create high-impact visual stories.

Community Impact: Red Apple Farm

Located in Phillipston, Massachusetts, Red Apple Farm is a year-round destination for apple picking, hard cider, seasonal festivals, and unforgettable days in the heart of Central Massachusetts. Currently under the direction of Nancy Rose and Al Rose, five generations of the Rose family have had a hand in shaping the Red Apple Farm, with each generation bringing change and new endeavors to keep the farm adaptive and relevant in an ever-changing world. Red Apple Farm also has a stall at Boston Public Market, bringing an authentic New England family experience to historic downtown Boston.

Innovation & Growth: Ferro-Ceramic Grinding Inc.

Ferro-Ceramic Grinding Inc. is an advanced ceramic component supplier and manufacturer specializing in precision machining and grinding. Founded by Phil and Carl Strasnick in 1966, and currently led by President and CEO Constantine Sideridis, Ferro-Ceramic focuses on being a full service advanced ceramic supplier of material and precision machined and ground parts. As an industry leader, Ferro-Ceramic offers its customers unparalleled knowledge, extraordinary operating efficiency, outstanding customer service, and a history of meeting extremely close tolerances with exacting precision.

Small Business Champion: Shanti Boston

Since 1999, Shanti Restaurant has gratefully been serving delicious, Indian and Indian subcontinent food to its customers in the Dorchester, Roslindale, and Greater Boston area. Co-owned by Solomon and Rokeya Chowdhury, Shanti plays an active role in Boston’s small business community. By working with organizations like Roslindale Village Main Streets and Roxbury Main Streets, Shanti supports neighborhood initiatives and helps bring visibility to local businesses. Shanti’s participation in citywide events like the Boston Local Food Festival also highlights Boston’s diverse food scene and connects small businesses with new audiences.

CEO Leadership: MM Elite Events

Built on a foundation of delivering flawless events for high-level officials and diplomats, MM Elite Events (MMEE) specializes in exceptional execution under pressure. Founder & CEO Myriam Michel brings a wealth of expertise in executing everything from complex virtual events and international summits to large-scale festivals and gala dinners for high-profile clients, universities, and dignitaries. With a network of esteemed vendors, the MME offers expert event planning and management services.

About the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce

The Chamber is the convener, voice, and advocate of the region’s business community, committed to making Greater Boston the best place for all businesses and all people to thrive. We help our members and Greater Boston succeed by convening and connecting the business community; researching, developing and advocating for public policies that contribute to our region’s economic success; and providing comprehensive learning and development programs designed to grow strong business and civic leaders. Learn more at BostonChamber.com.

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