Nov. 13. Nominations are open for the 2024 Crowns of Enterprise Awards, sponsored by Mecklenburg County and the City of Charlotte.

The Crowns of Enterprise Awards recognize small businesses that demonstrate exemplary leadership and sound business strategies. The awards committee specifically recognizes firms that grow and strengthen the local economy, as well as welcome and participate in diversity and inclusion efforts.

Through Jan. 19, 2024, members of the community can nominate an outstanding business or individual in each of the following categories:

—Certified Minority Business Enterprise of the Year.
—Certified Woman Business Enterprise of the Year.
—Certified Small Business Enterprise of the Year.
—Prime Contractor of the Year.
—Diversity Advocate of the Year.
—Media Personality/Media Outlet of the Year.

Self-nominations are welcomed. In some categories, the winner must hold a certification by the North Carolina Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses or the City of Charlotte.

Additional information about the certifications is available in the nomination form.

Winners will be announced at the Crowns of Enterprise Awards ceremony on May 9, 2024. Award winners will continue to build relationships and benefit from the program’s network of business leaders, officials, and government agencies.

Learn more about the awards and other efforts to support small, minority-owned and women-owned businesses by visiting Mecklenburg County Business Diversity and Inclusion.