Founded in Baltimore in 2018, 4MyCiTy began with one simple act: rescuing surplus food and getting it to families who needed it. What started with one person and a car has grown into Maryland’s only full-service, community-powered “Zero Waste to Zero Hunger” Sustainability Hub. Every day, 4MyCiTy transforms rescued food into nourishment, composts what can’t be eaten, and turns waste into opportunity through paid job training and workforce development.

Research shows that chess gives children a foundation to perform better in school. For more than 20 years, Chess4Life has helped more than 100,000 students across Seattle build skills that last far beyond the board. From preschool classrooms to juvenile detention centers, their programs teach confidence, focus, problem-solving, and perseverance. At Chess4Life, every win, draw, or loss is a chance to learn—and to help kids see their own potential more clearly.

Greene Thumb Landscaping grows more than just grass. They grow stronger communities. A second-generation, Black-owned, woman-led company, they strive to create opportunity for those often overlooked in the workforce. Serving clients across Indianapolis since 1992, Greene Thumb pairs high-quality work with deep local impact, donating services through their Purple Thumb program and investing in training, leadership, and second chances for veterans.

Hello Brew Co. was built on the belief that a small brewery can be a big community force. Operating out of a 130-year-old house in downtown Fort Collins, the team treats their taproom as an open invitation—for local artists, musicians, nonprofits, and neighbors who need support. From rotating art shows and charity beer releases to a 24/7 Narcan kiosk in their yard, Hello Brew Co. makes good on its motto: good beer for better people.

Navigating postpartum, career pressure, and overwhelming expectations, Nicole Gonzalez-Cumberbatch launched a podcast in 2019 to give new moms a voice. By 2021, those conversations became The Motherhood Village: a Miami community offering expert-led workshops, peer support, and social connection focused on mental health and personal growth. In 2025, the mission expanded further—into a permanent 5,000-square-foot space where Motherhood Village reaches more mothers and families than ever before.

We’re honoring our winners and all 150 runners-up with a series of celebration parties across the country. Want to meet fellow small business leaders and cheer on the entrepreneurs making a difference in their cities? We’d love to see you there.