Leesburg business owners, nonprofit leaders, and community advocates gathered in downtown Wednesday night as the Town of Leesburg recognized some of the people and organizations helping shape the community’s identity and growth.
Mayor Kelly Burk, members of the Town Council, and the Leesburg Economic Development Commission presented the annual Leesburg Business Awards during a ceremony held at Shutters on King in the heart of the historic downtown district.
This year’s awards recognized businesses and individuals across seven categories, highlighting everything from innovation and entrepreneurship to community service and support for the arts.
A total of 25 businesses, nonprofits, and individuals were nominated.
Birch Tree Books & Plants took home the Arts and Culture Award, which recognizes contributions to Leesburg’s creative community. The downtown business has become a gathering place for residents looking for books, plants, and local events that bring people together.
The Community Ambassador Award went to Blossom & Bloom Thrift Shop for its work supporting the Leesburg community beyond day-to-day business operations. The award recognizes organizations that help strengthen the town’s image and support local growth and engagement.
Floor Coverings International – Leesburg earned the New Business Award, which honors businesses launched in 2023 or 2024 that have already made an impact on the local economy and business culture.
Casa de Avila Tacos received the Expanding Business Award for growing its investment and presence in Leesburg while contributing to the town’s evolving small business scene.
LAWS Domestic Violence & Sexual Assault Services was recognized with the Non-Profit/Philanthropic Award for its continued work supporting residents and improving quality of life throughout the community.
The Innovation Award went to uAvionix, a Leesburg-based aerospace technology company known for developing advanced aviation safety and communications systems.
One of the evening’s highest honors, the George C. Marshall Award, was presented to Sola Erickson Pallotta for outstanding leadership and commitment to the community beyond business contributions.
The public also had a chance to weigh in through the People’s Choice Award, which was open to nominees in several categories. That award went to Second Ave Photography.
Town leaders said the annual awards are meant to highlight the people and organizations helping Leesburg maintain its unique character while continuing to grow.
In a town balancing rapid change with its historic roots, many of Wednesday night’s winners reflected the local businesses and nonprofits residents say give Leesburg its sense of community.
Leesburg’s Department of Economic Development, along with the Economic Development Commission and Town Council, congratulated all nominees and winners recognized during the event.
