2026 Young Entrepreneur Of The Year

At the heart of the L.E.G.A.C.Y. Awards Weekend lies a bold promise: to uplift, amplify, and invest in the next wave of game-changers. The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Contest invites visionary business owners aged 25 or younger to step into the spotlight, pitch their dreams before a live audience of industry leaders and entrepreneurs, and compete for more than $25,000 in cash and business-building prizes. 

Applications are open.... Apply Now!

This isn’t just an award, it’s a launchpad. Finalists will gain access to mentorship, marketing and legal support, PR campaigns, and networking opportunities to help turn ideas into impact.

Established by WDB Marketing in partnership with its nonprofit arm, WDB Cares, the initiative is rooted in a purpose: to invest in young entrepreneurs, bridge resource gaps, and build generational wealth within our community.

Whether you’re a creator, innovator, or strategist, if you’re ready to write the next chapter of your business story, this is your stage. Apply (or nominate someone) and show the world what’s possible when ambition meets opportunity. The business must be established and legally incorporated, or in the process of being legally incorporated. 

Our 2026 Young Entrepreneur of The Year Winner will receive up to $25K in cash and prizes to help their vision grow, donated by experienced Black Entrepreneurs, interested in supporting the next generation of Black Entrepreneurs.

Thank you to our sponsors