CommunityWorks hosted its second annual Empowering Entrepreneurship event on Wednesday, May 6th, 2026. Guests gathered at Avenue in downtown Greenville, where they enjoyed a reception followed by a program and awards presentation. Held as part of a celebration of Small Business Week 2026, the event served as a spotlight for local business owners and community champions, recognizing their resilience, innovation, and impact. Empowering Entrepreneurship was made possible through the support of presenting sponsor Pinnacle and award sponsors Fifth Third Bank and Count on Us Controller Services, along with additional community and ecosystem partners committed to strengthening the small business landscape.

Award categories and winners are as follows:

Emerging Small Business Award: Sponsored by Fifth Third Bank
Recognizing a rising business demonstrating innovation, resilience, and strong growth potential.
Nominees:
• Jacqueline Page, Full Page Development — Winner
• Ian Thompson, Miracle Hummus
• Fredrick Styles, Signature Scents
• Reggie Nash, Top to Bottom Construction

Community Champion Award: Sponsored by Count On Us Controller Services
Recognizing a business, nonprofit, or organization that has gone above and beyond to uplift the community
through service and advocacy.
Nominees:
• Rebecca and John Fabanwo, Heart of Compassion SC
• Tessa May, Loaves + Fishes
• Celeste Crocker, Motivate Magazine
• Dr. Caroline Caldwell, ReFlight LLC — Winner

Business Excellence Award: Sponsored by Fifth Third Bank
Recognizing an established business demonstrating leadership, sustainability, and continued impact in the local
economy.
Nominees:
• Landon Williams, Easy Boy Web
• Jocelyn Jones, Jocelyn Janel Portraits
• Elizabeth McDaniel, LaRue Fine Chocolates — Winner
• Tanner Pittman, T Pitt Fitness LLC

Media entrepreneur, actor, and award-winning filmmaker Brittney Brackett served as emcee. Past award winner LaShonn Edmunds of CAIRS Shoes delivered opening remarks. Closing remarks were delivered by LaTorrie Geer, CEO of CommunityWorks, who emphasized the organization’s continued commitment to
supporting entrepreneurs and strengthening the small business ecosystem across South Carolina. The evening concluded with continued networking and celebration of award winners, nominees, and community partners. CommunityWorks extends its sincere gratitude to all nominees, attendees, and partners who contributed to the success of the event. Empowering Entrepreneurship continues to highlight the resilience, innovation, and leadership of entrepreneurs driving economic growth and community impact across the state of South Carolina