🎉 Congratulations on Taking the First Step to Spotlight Your Business! 🎉

By completing this registration form, you’re joining the excitement of the Best of Berkeley and the East Bay—one of the most celebrated honors for local businesses, restaurants, shops, services, and more!

• Register to receive your free “Vote For Us” logos to promote your nomination campaign.
• Promotional visibility on the nomination ballot pages is available through paid marketing options—stand out with a Regular or Featured Listing, eBlast, Social Media Post, or full Sponsorship Package!
• Connect with thousands of engaged East Bay locals eager to discover and support the best businesses in their community.

Celebrate your success. Get seen. Make this your moment.
Submit your registration today and claim your place in the Best of Berkeley spotlight!

📚 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the Best of Berkeley?

The Best of Berkeley is an annual celebration honoring the top businesses, restaurants, service providers, shops, entertainment venues, and local favorites across Berkeley and the East Bay, all driven by reader nominations and votes.

How does the voting process work?

• Round One: Open Nominations (May – June 2025)
  Readers submit nominations for their favorite businesses across dozens of categories.
• Round Two: Final Voting (July – August 2025)
  The top nominees advance to the final ballot for readers to vote on the winners.
• Winners are announced in September 2025 both online and in our special Best of Berkeley issue.

Does completing this form list my business on the nomination ballot?

No. Completing the form does not automatically place you on the ballot. The ballot is populated by reader nominations. However, by registering, you gain access to marketing opportunities that can increase your visibility during the campaign and encourage more nominations and votes.

How can my business be seen during the nomination round?

To promote your business directly to voters, you can select a paid promotional package from the options listed in the form, including Regular Listings, Featured Listings, eBlast Promotions, Social Media Spotlights, and Sponsorship Packages.

What’s the purpose of the Best of Berkeley contest?

We love Berkeley and the vibrancy that’s created by our business community. The Best of Berkeley contest promotes shopping local in Berkeley by spotlighting small businesses, boosting their visibility and credibility. It helps our merchants succeed by attracting new customers, building community pride, and encouraging residents to support their hometown shops, restaurants, and services.

How are winners chosen?

Winners are chosen by the community after a round of write-in nominations and a month-long round of voting. We typically receive upwards of 20,000 votes as the community gets engaged. There is no cost to any business to participate.

What do I get for free by completing the form?

When you register, you receive exclusive “Vote For Us” logos within 48 hours to use in your marketing. You’ll also have the opportunity to select paid promotional options to maximize your visibility during the campaign.

What are the promotional options available?

See promotional options for the current round on the form above. Options change from round to round.

What is a “Featured Listing”?

A Featured Listing showcases your logo, business name, address, phone number, and website—making your business stand out visually among listings during the nomination and voting periods.

How do I get my “Vote For Us” logos?

Once you submit this form, your customized digital logos will be emailed to you within 48 hours. Use them across social media, newsletters, websites, and print materials to drive engagement.

Is there a deadline to register and promote my business?

Yes! Nomination promotions run from May through June 2025, and Final Voting promotions run from July through August 2025. Register early to maximize your exposure! Each round’s promotions last for that round only.

Who do I contact if I have more questions?

If you have any questions, simply leave a note in the “Notes or Questions” section of the form, or email our team directly. We are happy to assist you!