Nominations Open for 2026 Crowns of Enterprise Awards in Charlotte-Mecklenburg

The 2026 Crowns of Enterprise Awards are now accepting nominations, inviting the Charlotte-Mecklenburg community to recognize outstanding local small businesses. Sponsored by Mecklenburg County and the City of Charlotte, this annual event celebrates its 15th anniversary, highlighting the significant economic contributions of small enterprises in the region.

 

Community members are encouraged to nominate exceptional small businesses for one of six prestigious awards. These accolades not only honor the hard work and dedication of local entrepreneurs but also provide winners and nominees with valuable networking opportunities among business leaders, officials, and government agencies.

 

Nominations are open until January 23, 2026, and self-nominations are welcomed. Detailed eligibility criteria are available in the nomination form.

 

Award Categories:

 

Innovation Catalyst Award: Recognizes individuals whose vision and leadership have driven positive change in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg area, implementing solutions that enhance growth and efficiency.

 

Enterprise Trailblazer Award: Honors businesses exemplifying exceptional leadership and a forward-thinking approach to enterprise development, setting standards for strategic execution and community engagement.

 

Small Business Enterprise Leadership Award: Presented to certified small businesses demonstrating outstanding performance and contributions to economic development in the region.

 

Industry Stewardship Award: Acknowledges firms modeling responsible stewardship in the contracting and business industry, championing equitable opportunities and sustainable practices.

 

Young Entrepreneur Award: Celebrates young business owners aged 10 to 25 who have shown remarkable vision and resilience in launching or growing a business.

 

Community and Economic Impact Award: Recognizes businesses or individuals committed to community growth through innovative and impactful initiatives.

 

The awards ceremony is scheduled for May 2026, where winners will be announced and celebrated for their contributions to the local economy. This event underscores the region's commitment to fostering a vibrant small business community.

 

In recent developments, Charlotte has seen significant economic growth, with companies like SoFi Technologies and Scout Motors expanding their presence in the area, creating numerous job opportunities. These expansions highlight the region's appeal to businesses and the importance of recognizing local enterprises that contribute to this dynamic environment.

 

For more information on the Crowns of Enterprise Awards and to submit nominations, visit the official Mecklenburg County website.