In the fall of 2025, I was approached to be a judge for the Better Business Bureau’s 2026 award series. Like many of you in the community, I didn’t realize that the BBB had its own awards, and I was excited to learn more. Each year, the BBB of the Eastern Carolinas (which serves 48 counties across eastern North Carolina, including all seven counties covered by the Greater Fayetteville Business Journal) hosts its annual award series, the Torch Awards. 

The BBB Torch Awards honor companies and charities that demonstrate a high level of character and ensure their practices meet the highest standards of ethics in individual, small, mid-size and large business categories.

EACH YEAR, BUSINESSES ARE INVITED TO PARTICIPATE IN THE FOLLOWING CATEGORIES:

THE BBB SPARK AWARD, which is bestowed upon business leaders aged 35 and younger or new entrepreneurs of any age who have been operating a business for less than three years. Consumers and businesses can also nominate a business leader they feel is actively working to maintain an ethical marketplace while connecting with the community.

THE BBB SPARK JR. AWARD, which recognizes current high school students who demonstrate entrepreneurship. Either a business operated by a student or a business model developed by a student for future execution will qualify.

THE NEWLY INTRODUCED BBB CATALYST AWARD honors a nonprofit or mission-driven business within their service area that has made a significant impact in its chosen sector.

This year, out of 33 nominees across all of those categories, do you know how many from the greater Fayetteville region threw their hat in the ring? One. One business in Aberdeen, N.C. (Shout out to you, TGU Home Solutions!)

I had a chance to meet with many passionate, well-deserving business owners who told stories of struggles and setbacks, but also triumphs and industry-defining victories. All I could think was, “This business out in Raeford would do amazing in this category,” or “Why didn’t this local Fayetteville nonprofit apply?!” Now that this is on my radar, I plan on bringing the entire greater Fayetteville business community in with me.

In 2026, I plan on being an even louder advocate for our business community – working to bring programs, grant opportunities, workshops and educational resources to Fayetteville and the surrounding areas.

And speaking of trailblazing women, this Women’s History Month, we hope you enjoy this issue featuring some of the innovative women in our community who are spearheading their own organizations, businesses and more.

Happy Women’s History Month, and happy reading!