Awards Finalists 2025
Solopreneur
Kimberly Melton
Joni Hough
Mindy Mills Hinson
Established Woman Business Owner
Chris Jarrett
Nicole Reina
2025 NAWBO Charlotte Awards Gala
Tue, May 20Bank of America Tower: The Greenway RoomWe invite you to step into an era of glamour and grit as we honor the trailblazers, visionaries, and unstoppable forces of Charlotte’s business community at the 2025 NAWBO Charlotte Awards Gala. Register today!
Announcing our Exciting New Awards Program - Honoring Women Who Lead & Inspire!
NAWBO Charlotte is thrilled to shine a spotlight on the powerhouse women business owners in our community! This year, we are elevating our awards to new heights —revamping two signature honors, introducing an exciting new category, and expanding our recognition program to celebrate even more outstanding women. These awards are designed to showcase the brilliance, perseverance, and leadership of our members. Get ready to be inspired!
Signature Awards
Emerging Entrepreneur Award
Celebrating a trailblazing NAWBO Charlotte member who has built a thriving business within the past five years, this award honors innovation, creativity, and perseverance But it’s about more than just business success—it’s about impact. This award recognizes a woman who not only leads with excellence but uplifts her community and champions NAWBO’s mission. This award replaces our previous Rising Star of the Year Award.
Established Woman Business Owner of the Year Award
Reserved for a NAWBO Charlotte member who has successfully led a business for over five years, this prestigious honor recognizes strong leadership, business growth, and financial stability. She is a force of nature—balancing ambition with generosity, mentoring other women, and fully embracing NAWBO’s core values.This award replaces our previous Women Business Owner of the Year Award.
Solopreneur of the Year Award
A tribute to the resilience, creativity, and strength of a business owner who runs her enterprise single-handedly, this award goes beyond numbers to honor the sheer dedication and ingenuity required to build and sustain a thriving business alone. The recipient exemplifies NAWBO’s mission - creating opportunities for all and upholding its core values of inclusivity, integrity, and innovation.
Expanded Award Categories - More Ways to Shine!
We’re taking recognition to the next level! In addition to our application-based awards, we’re expanding our honors to highlight even more trailblazing women and supportive community partners. No application required, nominations will be accepted from Premier Members- a nomination form will be sent to those members very soon.
Next Gen Award
Celebrating young women entrepreneurs who are already making waves.
Community Involvement Award
Recognizing our community partners who are supporters of NAWBO Charlotte and go above and beyond to give back.
Legacy Award
Honoring long-standing members who have made a lasting impact.
New Member of the Year
Shining a light on a first-year NAWBO member who has already making a difference.
