Entrepreneurs at the heart of their communities have a new opportunity to gain recognition and financial support. PayPal and Global Citizen have launched the Small Business Impact Awards, a program designed to highlight small business owners and social entrepreneurs making substantial social or environmental contributions within their localities. With $25,000 awarded to five winning businesses and an exclusive masterclass on brand-building led by marketing experts from Global Citizen, this initiative is tailored to support small business growth and community engagement.
“Small businesses are vital to the health of our local economies, communities, and cultures,” remarked Liza Henshaw, President of Global Citizen. “We believe that global citizens everywhere can create positive change and look forward to receiving inspiring submissions from small businesses that are deeply committed to their communities and advancing social good.”
This initiative reinforces the critical role small businesses play in fostering community resilience and driving local economies. Amy Bonitatibus, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at PayPal, emphasized this sentiment: “Building a thriving economy isn’t just about big industries – it starts with small businesses, local innovation, and entrepreneurial leadership.” By empowering local entrepreneurs, both organizations aim to spotlight those who are at the forefront of societal transformation, enhancing job creation and community stability.
Entrepreneurs interested in applying for the awards can do so through the online application portal. The submissions should detail the positive social or environmental impacts made by the small business and include specific examples of community development, sustainable practices, or educational initiatives. Importantly, applicants must also address any challenges they have faced and present a viable business plan for scaling their impact.
The application window closes on August 15, 2025, so potential candidates should prepare their submissions promptly. The opportunity to win a cash prize alongside expert-led guidance on brand-building is particularly appealing for small businesses looking to enhance their market presence and operational efficacy.
To foster community engagement, local residents and social media users can promote the awards by encouraging small business owners to apply. Global Citizen invites community members to share and comment on their social media platforms, including TikTok, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn, to raise awareness of the program.
This initiative not only highlights extraordinary businesses but also underscores the mutual benefits of community support and innovation. While the prospect of receiving financial support and expert guidance may be attractive, business owners should also consider the effort involved in articulating their impact and challenges effectively in their applications. Reflecting on these elements can enhance their understanding of their own business’s strengths and areas for improvement.
With a commitment to uplifting entrepreneurs and driving significant change, the Global Citizen and PayPal Small Business Impact Awards provide a promising avenue for small business owners dedicated to social good. With an increasing number of consumers prioritizing businesses that reflect their values, such initiatives could enhance brand reputation while simultaneously contributing to local community welfare.
For more detailed information about the awards, including guidelines on how to apply, interested parties can visit Global Citizen’s page.
As small businesses continue to navigate challenges in a post-pandemic world, opportunities like these can ignite both innovation and community commitment, paving the way for a more resilient local economy. It’s clear that through partnerships like those formed between PayPal and Global Citizen, the potential for positive change is both substantial and achievable.
In a climate where the impacts of small businesses extend far beyond their immediate transactions, these awards could inspire a new wave of entrepreneurs committed to creating value—not just for themselves, but for their communities as well. By fostering a spirit of collaboration and action, programs like the Small Business Impact Awards can truly make a difference in local ecosystems.
For the full details, refer to the original announcement from PayPal and Global Citizen here.
Image Via Envato: Wavebreakmedia
