Brand new to the Better Business Bureau's BBB Awards lineup is the Pause for Purpose Award, an accolade meant to honor a female business owner or entrepreneur who intentionally creates space to reflect, learn and grow, both personally and professionally.
This award was created by The Pause Community founders, Alida Lee and Catherine Honeycutt. In partnership with Lee and Honeycutt, Better Business Bureau of Eastern Carolinas (BBB) plans to award a $1,000 grant to a female entrepreneur who knows the importance of stepping back in order to leap forward.
In order to qualify, applicants must be female business owners or entrepreneurs based within our 48-county service area actively involved in business operations for at least one year demonstrating leadership qualities that empower others and embodying collaboration, integrity, and a growth mindset. Applicants must also positively impact her community and industry.
Applications are due Jan. 5, 2026 at 11:59 p.m. and can be submitted via this link: https://www.cognitoforms.com/BBBForms/ThePauseForPurposeAward
The winner will be honored along with other award winners at an awards ceremony in the spring of 2026.
Brian and Staci Graybill opened their third business together, Market Square Pantry, in December 2025. Photo provided by Faith Hatton. For Fayetteville entrepreneurs Brian and Staci Graybill, building a business has often started when they were
The venue features two levels, two fully stocked bars, audio-video systems including projectors, and lighting solutions, an in-house culinary team, lounge space, a bistro section and private rooms, a state-of-the-art DJ booth and on-site staff to hel
Brad and Kelley McLawhorn became business partners in 2001 when they first opened a restaurant on Reilly Road. Now, their highly praised catering company continues to impress community members with flexibility, quality and personalized service. Photo
