Nominate an Entrepreneur, Business, or Community Leader
The FSU Entrepreneurial Impact Awards Gala celebrates individuals and businesses making extraordinary contributions to entrepreneurship, innovation, economic growth, and community development. Nominations are open to the public, and we encourage community members, customers, colleagues, employees, and business partners to recognize those who are making a difference.
Nomination Period
Nominations Open
July 15
Nominations Close
August 15
All nominations must be submitted through the designated category-specific nomination forms linked below.
Finalist & Winner Selection
Following the nomination period, submissions will be reviewed by an independent committee.
Two to Three Finalists
Two to three finalists will be selected per category.
Finalist Notification
Finalists will be notified prior to the event and must provide their bio and logo.
Winners Announced Live
Winners will be announced live during the gala on September 10.
Each finalist will receive one complimentary ticket to attend the gala.
Award Categories
Nominations are now closed.
Student Entrepreneur of the Year
Recognizes a Fayetteville State University undergraduate or graduate student with the most promising entrepreneurial venture.
Faculty of the Year
Honors a Fayetteville State University faculty member whose research, mentorship, or community outreach has significantly strengthened the local small business ecosystem.
Alumni Entrepreneur of the Year
Recognizes a Fayetteville State University graduate who has built a high-growth business and demonstrated expansion into new markets, regions, or global opportunities.
Emerging Business Award
Recognizes a business operating for less than two years that is already making a meaningful impact within the business community.
Micro Business Award of the Year
Honors a business with 1–9 employees that has demonstrated exceptional growth, innovation, customer service, and community impact.
Veteran-Owned Business of the Year
Recognizes a veteran-owned business that demonstrates strong leadership, resilience, and positive economic and community impact.
Community Impact Award
Honors a nonprofit organization that demonstrates outstanding commitment to improving the community through service, outreach, advocacy, and programs that create lasting positive impact.
Small Business Award of the Year
Recognizes a business that has achieved sustained growth, delivered outstanding customer service, and fostered a positive organizational culture.
Multi-Generational Excellence Award
Honors a business that has successfully transitioned through two or more generations while continuing to innovate and thrive.
Legacy Award
Recognizes a business that has served as a cornerstone of the community for ten years or more.
Industry Titan of the Year
The premier award recognizing a company that has demonstrated exceptional market leadership, business stability, innovation, and influence within its industry.
Entrepreneur of the Year
Recognizes a visionary entrepreneur who has taken significant risks, overcome challenges, and built a successful venture from the ground up.
Celebrate Entrepreneurial Excellence
Join us at the FSU Entrepreneurial Impact Awards Gala as we recognize the entrepreneurs, businesses, and community leaders making a lasting impact throughout our region.
View Gala Information