Nominations for 2026 Business. Well Crafted. Awards
The City of Hickory’s Business Development Committee (BDC) is now accepting nominations for the 2026 Business. Well Crafted. Awards program.
The City of Hickory’s Vision for Economic Development is to serve as a regional economic leader by fostering innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth across key high-potential sectors to enhance the quality of life for all. The BDC’s Business. Well Crafted. Awards program seeks to recognize businesses and individuals that support and affirm this vision.
Awards may be presented in the following categories:
- Individual (Entrepreneur of the Year)
- Youth (Entrepreneur 25 years of age or younger)
- Woman-Owned Business
- Veteran-Owned Business
- Historically Underutilized Business
- Business or Organization (10 or fewer employees)
- Business or Organization (11 to 50 employees)
- Business or Organization (51 or more employees)
To qualify, businesses must have operated for at least two years, and the business or its owners must not have received a Business. Well Crafted. Award within the past five years.
“Hickory is fortunate to be home to many successful businesses and inspiring entrepreneurs,” said Hickory Business Development Director Dave Leonetti, who also serves as staff liaison to the BDC. “The BDC is excited to offer this opportunity to recognize community members who share the City’s vision for growth and economic strength and who work to enhance the quality of life for Hickory residents through thoughtful, forward‑looking business practices.”
Nominations may be submitted online at www.hickorync.gov/business-well-crafted-awards through 5 p.m. on Friday, Sept. 30. Nominees will receive a response form asking them to describe how their work promotes the City’s Vision for Economic Development, why these efforts are significant, and to list related activities.
Questions about the Business. Well Crafted. Awards may be directed to Business Development Coordinator Amy Le at ale@hickorync.gov or 828-261-2293.