Each year, The Honors awards celebrate the individuals and organizations whose work is shaping the future of our region. From long-standing institutions to emerging leaders, these recipients reflect the strength, innovation and commitment that continue to move Charleston forward.
We are proud to recognize the 2026 Honors Award recipients, whose impact can be seen across our business community and around the Charleston region.
Join us as we celebrate their achievements on April 23 at The Grand at 81 Mary.
The Honors – Tickets on Sale Now
Meet this year’s honorees and learn more about the work driving their impact across the Charleston region.
Business of the Year: South Carolina Federal Credit Union
South Carolina Federal Credit Union has grown alongside the Charleston region for nearly 90 years, adapting to change while staying grounded in its original purpose. Today, that legacy shows up in the way members experience the organization day to day through thoughtful service, strong relationships and a clear focus on financial well-being. Just as important is the credit union’s presence in the community, from sustained philanthropic investment to hands-on volunteerism and accessible financial education. It is a model of long-term growth that remains closely tied to the people and places it serves.
Small Business of the Year: Rosemary & Rye
Rosemary & Rye Catering has built its reputation in Charleston by pairing thoughtful growth with a focused sense of purpose. What began as a boutique operation has expanded into a trusted hospitality partner, serving events across the region while maintaining a strong focus on creativity, detail and genuine service. That same intentional approach extends to its team, where culture is actively shaped through leadership, feedback and recognition. Beyond the events themselves, Rosemary & Rye shows up in meaningful ways through its ROOTS program, investing time and resources into local organizations and initiatives. The result is a business that continues to grow while staying closely connected to the people and community it serves.
Non-Profit of the Year: Trident United Way
For more than 80 years, Trident United Way has helped shape a stronger, more connected Charleston region by focusing on the systems that influence everyday life. Its work centers on advancing financial stability for ALICE households, translating data into coordinated action through community investment, partnerships and policy engagement. That approach brings together nonprofits, businesses and volunteers to address complex challenges like housing, food access and workforce development in a more unified way. Alongside this work, thousands of volunteer hours continue to strengthen neighborhoods across the region. The result is an organization that not only responds to immediate needs, but also helps build the foundation for long-term community well-being.
Community Impact Champion: Truist
Truist has established a strong and consistent presence in the Charleston region through sustained investment in the issues that shape long-term community well-being. Its work reflects their focus on expanding opportunity, from advancing affordable housing solutions to strengthening workforce development and supporting organizations that serve those most in need. These efforts are carried out in close partnership with local institutions and nonprofits, creating momentum around shared priorities rather than isolated initiatives. Truist’s willingness to invest both resources and leadership has helped move forward complex, region-wide efforts, contributing to a more resilient and connected community.
One to Watch: Bhaumik Desai, United Community
Bhaumik Desai is building a reputation in the Charleston region as a leader who pairs financial expertise with a genuine commitment to helping others succeed. In his role at United Community, he approaches his work as more than transactions, guiding clients and small business owners with a focus on long-term financial understanding and stability. That same mindset carries into his broader involvement across the community, from mentoring entrepreneurs to shaping the next generation of leaders through Charleston Young Professionals. With a steady focus on connection, growth and shared success, he is helping strengthen both individual opportunity and the region’s future.
Entrepreneur of the Year: Whitney Whitlock, WeThrive HR
Whitney Whitlock has taken an intentional approach to entrepreneurship, building WeThrive HR to meet a need she saw firsthand in growing businesses across the Charleston region. Drawing on experience from large-scale organizations, she launched the firm to bring structure, clarity and strategic HR support to small businesses navigating growth. In just a few years, that vision has translated into meaningful impact, helping local companies strengthen their teams, improve retention and build systems that support long-term success. Through that work, Whitney is not only growing her own business, but also helping shape a more resilient and sustainable small business community.
