The Seattle Medium, the Pacific Northwest’s largest minority-owned and operated newspaper, is inviting the community to participate in its inaugural “Best of the Best Northwest” Readers’ Choice Awards. The campaign gives readers an opportunity to recognize and celebrate businesses, nonprofits and community leaders that help the region thrive.
Through a public nomination and voting process, readers will help identify standout businesses, organizations and individuals across multiple categories, highlighting those who make a meaningful impact in their communities. The nominations period begins Wednesday, May 6, and runs until Thursday, May 21st. Community members can submit nominations online at bestofthebestnorthwest.com.
“It’s more important now than ever that we recognize the businesses, organizations and individuals in our community who are making a difference, empowering others, enhancing the culture and helping improve the quality of life here in the Pacific Northwest,” said Chris B. Bennett, publisher and CEO of The Seattle Medium. “We’re talking about mentors, volunteers, organizations and businesses that provide opportunities and have a direct impact on our daily lives, and they need to know that we appreciate all that they do for us.”
The awards will span eight main categories and 56 subcategories, covering areas such as Business & Enterprise, Personal Care & Wellness, Food & Dining, Non-Profits & Community Impact, Youth & Education, Coaches & Athletics and Community Leadership. From best restaurants and barbershops to youth programs, cultural institutions and community advocates, the campaign is designed to reflect the full breadth of talent, service and innovation across the region while highlighting those who make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
The campaign will unfold in three phases, beginning with nominations, followed by a public voting period in which top nominees advance and compete for community support. Winners and finalists will be announced in a special “Best of the Best Northwest” section in The Seattle Medium, as well as across its digital platforms, recognizing those who rise to the top through community voting and engagement.
The initiative is supported by key community partners, including title sponsor Lydig Construction, along with category sponsors Alliance 4 Education, Black Future Co-op Fund, Washington State Microenterprise Association and Urban Connoisseurs. Their support helps expand the reach and impact of the campaign while reinforcing a shared commitment to uplifting the community.
“We are very thankful for our community partners for this endeavor,” said Chris B. Bennett. “We could not fully execute a campaign of this magnitude without their support. Their partnership reflects a commitment to our community and to highlighting those who are doing the work to make it even better.”
According to organizers, the campaign is designed not only to celebrate excellence but also to strengthen community connections and provide meaningful visibility for businesses and organizations across the region. By encouraging participation from readers throughout the Pacific Northwest, it aims to generate strong engagement while uplifting those who continue to make a positive impact every day.
Community members are encouraged to view the various categories and submit their nominations online at bestofthebestnorthwest.com beginning May 6, 2026.
