Asian Business Empowerment Council urges Massachusetts to discover more this May with #ShopAAPIMonth

May 1, 2026

BOSTON – May 1, 2026 — This May, in celebration of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, businesses, community organizations, philanthropic partners, and local leaders across the Commonwealth are coming together once again for #ShopAAPIMonth, a statewide campaign encouraging people to support AAPI-owned small businesses in cities, towns, and neighborhoods across Massachusetts.

“May is when we showcase the myriad of Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) owned businesses throughout the state,” said State Representative Tackey Chan (D- Quincy)- Chair of the Massachusetts Asian and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus. “These businesses contribute billions of dollars in employee payroll and expand across a broad range of industries from manufacturing to retail to professional services. We encourage everyone to try somewhere new or highlight their favorite AAPI business on social media this month.

From family-run restaurants and neighborhood bakeries to bookstores, salons, makers, and markets, AAPI-owned businesses are a cornerstone of Massachusetts’ local economies and cultural life. #ShopAAPIMonth invites residents, students, and visitors alike to try something new, discover hidden gems, and turn everyday outings into moments of exploration and connection.

“Supporting AAPI-owned businesses is one of the most joyful ways to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month,” said Qingjian (Q.J.) Shi, Senior Director of the Asian Business Empowerment Council “#ShopAAPIMonth is about turning everyday choices, where we eat, shop, and gather, into meaningful acts of discovery and community support. Try something new, bring a friend, and share your experience.”

Asian Business Empowerment Council logo
Massachusetts AAPI Legislative Caucus logo

A Statewide Celebration

AAPI entrepreneurs across Massachusetts continue to face issues such as rising costs, limited access to capital, and language and cultural barriers. #ShopAAPIMonth provides support to these entrepreneurs by increasing their visibility, driving foot traffic, and encouraging sustained engagement with AAPI-owned small businesses statewide.

Throughout May, the campaign invites individuals and groups to explore together, share recommendations, and spotlight businesses that others should know about, creating a ripple effect of discovery across communities.

“At a time when many small businesses are navigating a tough economy and rising costs, we deeply admire the grit, determination, and perseverance of AAPI business owners,” said Representative Tram T. Nguyen (D-Andover), Vice Chair of the Massachusetts Asian and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus. “#ShopAAPIMonth is a chance to support AAPI-owned businesses, celebrate the resilience and entrepreneurship behind them, and recognize the critical role they play in strengthening our communities.”

How to Join #ShopAAPIMonth

Whether you're a student, a foodie, part of a workplace team, or organizing a group outing, there are many ways to participate:

Visit:

  • Try something new: Visit an AAPI-owned restaurant, café, or shop you have not been to before.
  • Go together: Plan group outings with friends, colleagues, or community groups. Organize team lunches, client meetings, or social gatherings at AAPI-owned businesses.
  • Make it a series: Turn it into a weekly tradition throughout May and explore different neighborhoods across Greater Boston and beyond.

Shop and Support:

  • Choose AAPI-owned businesses for everyday needs and special occasions, from Mother’s Day gifts to team appreciation.
  • Encourage corporate teams and organizations to host gatherings, catering, and offsite meetings at AAPI-owned businesses.

Share and Amplify:

  • Post your experience using #ShopAAPIMonth, tag the business, and @abec_ma + @asiancaucusma.
  • Start the challenge: Share your pick using #ShopAAPIMonth — “This is my #ShopAAPIMonth pick, what’s yours?” — and tag 3 friends to keep it going.

Be Seen:

  • The Massachusetts Asian and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus and ABEC will feature select stories all month long, highlighting the businesses and communities powering our local economy.

Digital toolkits and participation ideas can be found through this link.

"The AAPI community has contributed immensely to economy, culture and community in Massachusetts. AAPI Heritage Month provides a great opportunity to come together and uplift our AAPI business owners across the Commonwealth,” said Representative Tara Hong (D-Lowell).

"Join us in celebrating AAPI heritage by participating in Shop AAPI. Every purchase you make not only supports our local businesses, it strengthens our shared commitment to expanding opportunity, amplifying our diversity, and empowering the creative and innovative spirit of the AAPI community," said Representative Amy Mah Sangiolo (D- Newton).

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The Massachusetts Asian and Pacific Islander Legislative Caucus is a bipartisan legislative caucus dedicated to bringing greater awareness to issues facing the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community in Massachusetts and increasing participation and representation within our state government.

The Asian Business Empowerment Council (ABEC) is a hub and champion for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) businesses across Massachusetts. We support AAPI businesses by tackling challenges, expanding opportunities, and leading efforts to build a strong ecosystem where they have the resources and support needed to thrive.