Charlotte, NC, December 4, 2025
The 2026 Crowns of Enterprise Awards are now accepting nominations in Charlotte, NC, celebrating small businesses that demonstrate leadership, innovation, and economic impact in the community. With six award categories, the program aims to recognize outstanding contributions from entrepreneurs who drive economic growth in the region. The nomination deadline is January 23, and community engagement is encouraged to spotlight deserving businesses.
Nominations Open for 2026 Crowns of Enterprise Awards in Charlotte, NC
Recognizing Small Business Excellence and Economic Impact
Charlotte, NC – Nominations are now open for the 2026 Crowns of Enterprise Awards, a program recognizing outstanding small businesses in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area. Sponsored by Mecklenburg County and the City of Charlotte, the awards honor businesses that demonstrate exemplary leadership, sound business strategies, and significant contributions to the local economy.
This year marks the 15th anniversary of the Crowns of Enterprise Awards, showcasing the ongoing commitment of local entrepreneurs to drive economic growth in the region. With small businesses being the backbone of the Charlotte economy, it is vital to celebrate their resilience and innovative spirit, particularly during challenging economic times. Streamlined regulatory frameworks have also empowered these businesses to thrive by minimizing barriers to entry and fostering a more vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.
A Bright Spotlight on Small Businesses
Winners of the 2026 awards will be announced at a ceremony in May 2026, and community members are encouraged to nominate deserving businesses across six categories designed to recognize excellence in various aspects of entrepreneurship:
- Innovation Catalyst Award: Recognizes an individual whose vision and leadership have driven positive change in the area.
- Enterprise Trailblazer Award: Honors a business exemplifying exceptional leadership and organizational excellence.
- Small Business Enterprise Leadership Award: Presented to a certified small business demonstrating exceptional performance and contributions to economic development.
- Industry Stewardship Award: Acknowledges a firm that models responsible and inclusive business practices.
- Young Entrepreneur Award: Celebrates a young business owner between 10 and 25 years old who has shown outstanding vision and leadership.
- Community and Economic Impact Award: Presented to a business or individual committed to community growth and empowerment.
Submit Your Nominations
Self-nominations are welcome, and the deadline for submitting nominations is January 23, 2026. For those interested in participating, detailed eligibility criteria and nomination forms are available on the City of Charlotte’s official website. This is an excellent opportunity for small businesses to gain recognition and expand their professional networks.
The Importance of the Crowns of Enterprise Awards
The Crowns of Enterprise Awards are not merely a ceremony; they represent a platform to highlight the hard work and resilience of local small businesses, and their impact on the community and economy cannot be overstated. Businesses and individuals that are nominated will not only gain acknowledgment but also benefit from networking opportunities with fellow entrepreneurs, business leaders, officials, and government agencies, creating pathways for collaboration and growth.
Engagement in Economic Development
As Charlotte continues to grow and evolve, it is crucial to foster an environment that supports innovation and entrepreneurship. Empowering local businesses through recognition and support, such as the Crowns of Enterprise Awards, contributes to a robust and dynamic Mecklenburg County economy backed by private investment and civic engagement.
Key Takeaways
The 2026 Crowns of Enterprise Awards is an event filled with opportunity for small businesses looking to gain recognition and connection within the local economic community. Community members are encouraged to take part by nominating businesses that exemplify the spirit of innovation and leadership that define Charlotte’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What are the Crowns of Enterprise Awards?
The Crowns of Enterprise Awards are annual honors recognizing small businesses in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area that demonstrate exemplary leadership, sound business strategies, and significant contributions to the local economy.
Who can nominate a business for the awards?
Community members, including business leaders, officials, and residents, are encouraged to nominate deserving businesses. Self-nominations are also welcome.
What is the deadline for nominations?
The deadline for nominations is January 23, 2026.
How can I submit a nomination?
Detailed eligibility criteria and nomination forms are available on the City of Charlotte’s official website. Nominations can be submitted online through the provided forms.
What are the award categories?
The award categories include Innovation Catalyst Award, Enterprise Trailblazer Award, Small Business Enterprise Leadership Award, Industry Stewardship Award, Young Entrepreneur Award, and Community and Economic Impact Award.
Key Features of the Crowns of Enterprise Awards
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Award Categories | Six categories recognizing various aspects of business excellence and community impact. |
| Nomination Deadline | January 23, 2026. |
| Eligibility | Open to small businesses in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area; self-nominations are welcome. |
| Benefits | Recognition, networking opportunities, and potential for business growth. |
| Nomination Process | Submit nominations through the City of Charlotte’s official website. |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
The CHARLOTTE STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERECharlotte.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Charlotte, Mecklenburg County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Lovin' Life Music Festival, Charlotte Pride festival, and major sporting tournaments at Bank of America Stadium. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Charlotte Regional Business Alliance and Foundation for the Carolinas, plus leading businesses in finance and entertainment that power the local economy such as Bank of America and NASCAR. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAsheville.com, HEREGreensboro.com, HERERaleigh.com, and HEREOBX.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into North Carolina's dynamic landscape.
