The Economic Advancement Award recognizes a municipal program that strengthens the local economy. The City of Jacksonville’s Small and Emerging Business (JSEB) Certification Program supports local emerging businesses by connecting them with capital, education, and contracting opportunities. To ensure equitable access to resources, JSEB has facilitated more than 50 outreach events across all 19 districts of Jacksonville. Over the past two years, the number of JSEB-certified businesses has doubled, with participating companies earning more than $106 million in city contracts. The program’s five-pillar approach, focused on legislation, education, community, capital, and contracts, offers a replicable model for economic development.