North Charlotte Today

On May 17, 2024, the City of Charlotte and Mecklenburg County recognized six local businesses as recipients of the 2024 Crowns of Enterprise Awards. The awards are an annual tradition, now in its 13th year, honoring small businesses that exhibit leadership, implement effective business strategies, contribute to the local economy, and promote diversity and inclusion.

The awards are bestowed by the Business Diversity and Inclusion division of the Mecklenburg County Office of Economic Development and the Charlotte Business INClusion program run by the City of Charlotte. One such award is given to a minority-owned business certified by North Carolina's Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses that exemplifies robust business strategies while spurring economic development in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region.

One recipient is Behavioral Health Intervention Center (BHIC), which provides organizations with employee assistance services such as clinical mental health and substance use assessments. Founded in 2011 by Chris Matthews, a licensed marriage and family therapist, BHIC aims to foster employee retention through individual counseling.

Another award recognizes a woman-owned business certified by North Carolina's Office for Historically Underutilized Businesses. This year's recipient is HAVEN Creative, a communications consultancy founded by Jeni Bukolt that aids organizations in growth through brand positioning, strategic communications, public relations and advertising.

A third award is presented to a small business certified by Charlotte Business INClusion. The WashRoom Laundry Service received this recognition for their high-tech residential and commercial laundry delivery services. Founded in 2016 by Saichelle McNeill, The WashRoom operates out of the Graham Street and North Tryon corridor of Charlotte.

Customized Construction was awarded for demonstrating exemplary leadership while embracing diversity initiatives. Owned by Hosea Morgan for over ten years, Customized Construction offers modern indoor and outdoor renovations of residential and commercial spaces.

QCity Metro was recognized for providing outstanding community engagement and exemplary coverage in support of the minority, women, and small business community in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region. Founded by Glenn Burkins in 2008, QCity Metro focuses on elevating awareness of Black-owned businesses.

Lastly, Super Global Mart was honored for championing diversity and inclusion practices to increase the overall participation of minority, women and small business enterprises in the Charlotte-Mecklenburg region. Peter Han, vice president for business development, and his team are expanding the store into a Global Culture Fest and food hall that could create as many as 100 local jobs.