Celebrating Small Business Heroes: Gusto Launches Impact Awards in Charlotte

Celebrating Small Business Heroes in Charlotte!

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — It’s an exciting time for small businesses in Charlotte and beyond! The city is buzzing with the energy and creativity that small business owners bring to their communities. With over three years of growth unlike anything we’ve seen before, more entrepreneurs are stepping up to the plate and launching their own ventures. Last year alone, America saw a record-breaking number of applications for new businesses—higher than we’ve seen in the past two decades!

Recognizing the Unsung Heroes

However, amid all that entrepreneurial spirit, it’s easy to overlook these dedicated individuals and the incredible work they put in every day. That’s where Gusto comes in. They are launching the Gusto Impact Awards, a fantastic initiative dedicated to recognizing the contributions of small businesses in our local communities. Morgan Cornelius, the Head of Community and Events at Gusto, shares this exciting news with us.

The Gusto Impact Awards are about shining a light on the hardworking small business owners who often go unrecognized. According to Cornelius, “We focus on supporting small-to-medium businesses (SMBs) by developing valuable programs rooted in human connection and real business success.” It’s all about celebrating the impact that these businesses have on their customers, employees, and communities.

A Call to Action for Charlotte’s Business Owners

If you’re a small business owner in Charlotte, we want to hear your story! This is your chance to share how your business makes an impact—whether that’s through outstanding customer service, innovative hiring practices, or by giving back to your community. The Gusto Impact Awards will be taking place in five cities: Charlotte, Dallas, Denver, Houston, and Miami.

What’s Up for Grabs?

The awards come with some pretty impressive prizes! Each winning business in Charlotte will not only receive the prestigious Gusto Impact Award but also:

• $40,000 in local advertising: Gusto will create and place digital and physical advertisements to help promote your business around the city, including a giant billboard!
• $10,000 in cash: A generous check to help businesses grow in the way they know best.
• Free Gusto payroll service for a year: Enjoy a full 12-month payroll subscription on Gusto, whether you’re a new customer or already part of the Gusto family.

But wait, there’s more! A total of 30 runner-ups in each city will receive a $500 Visa gift card to assist in supporting their businesses. It’s a fantastic opportunity that should not be missed!

How to Get Involved

If you want to learn more about the Gusto Impact Awards and how your business can compete, head over to gusto.com/win. This is your chance to stand out and have your hard work recognized on a larger platform!

A Resource for the Queen City

And for those looking for more local content, there’s also a vibrant lifestyle segment called Charlotte Today, hosted by Mia Atkins and Eugene Robinson. Tune in weekdays at 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. for everything trending in the Queen City—from delicious restaurant news to the hottest events rolling into town!

Charlotte is alive with potential, and with initiatives like the Gusto Impact Awards and vibrant local programming, there’s never been a better time to celebrate small businesses. Let’s get out there, support our local entrepreneurs, and recognize the hard work that fuels this great city!

Got a question for the Charlotte Today team or interested in advertising? Don’t hesitate to reach out via email or call them up today!

Here’s to the incredible small business owners in Charlotte—your impact is seen and celebrated!