The Florida League of Cities (FLC) has awarded the City of Jacksonville the prestigious
2025 Economic Advancement Award for its innovative Jacksonville Small and Emerging Business (JSEB) Certification Program. Jacksonville is one of just four cities statewide honored by FLC this year for excellence and innovation in municipal governance.
Jacksonville earned top honors for its JSEB program, which empowers local small and emerging businesses through access to capital, education, and city contracting opportunities. The program’s five-pillar approach—legislation, education, community, capital, and contracts—has become a model for economic inclusion and local investment.
In just the past two years, the number of certified businesses has doubled, with participating companies securing more than
$106 million in city contracts. To expand reach and equity, the program has conducted more than 50 outreach events across all 19 of Jacksonville’s districts.
“This award is a testament to Jacksonville’s commitment to economic growth that uplifts local businesses and builds long-term prosperity in every corner of our city,” said
Mayor Donna Deegan. “We’re proud to be recognized by the Florida League of Cities and even prouder of the local entrepreneurs leading the way.”
Each year, the Florida League of Cities’
Florida Municipal Achievement Awards celebrate standout programs across four categories: Economic Advancement, Environmental Stewardship, Local Action, and Public Engagement.
The 2025 winners include:
- Economic Advancement Award – City of Jacksonville, Jacksonville Small and Emerging Business (JSEB) Certification Program
- Environmental Stewardship Award – Village of Pinecrest, Community Composting and Everglades Earth Cycle
- Local Action Award – City of Oldsmar, Oldsmar Support Services Alliance
- Public Engagement Award – City of Jacksonville Beach, Take 2 Tuesdays Video Series
Award recipients will be honored with trophies and featured in the League’s
Quality Cities magazine, website, and social media.