PayPal and Global Citizen have joined together to celebrate small businesses that are revolutionizing commerce and advancing social and environmental impact.

The Global Citizen and PayPal Small Business Impact Awards celebrate entrepreneurs and small business owners who are driving real impact in their communities by demonstrating a deep commitment to equity and sustainability in their business practices. The award will highlight innovative leaders of small businesses and social enterprises who have developed products and services that make a positive social or environmental impact.

ELIGIBILITY:

They accept applications from all over the world, with the exception of countries and entities subject to financial or other sanctions by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) or other government entities of the United States of America that may restrict the transfer of the Prize money. 

Active Business Leader: The applicant must be the business’s owner, CEO, or founder and actively involved in business strategy and/or operations.

Small-to-Medium-Sized Business: Business has fewer than 50 full-time employees or annual revenue under $1 million and is registered as a small business in its home country.

Demonstrate Community Impact: The business should have at least 3 years of operation and show significant, tangible contributions to the local community.

Supporting local causes, charities, or nonprofit organizations. 

Engaging in community development projects or local partnerships. 

Implementing sustainable practices that benefit the local environment or economy. 

Creating jobs or providing educational/training opportunities for community members. 

Serve the Local Community: The business must operate and primarily serve the local community.

❌ Business Cannot Be:

Affiliated with an organization from any country or entity subject to financial or other sanctions by the Office of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) or other government entity of the United States of America.

A franchise or part of a national or international chain, as the focus is on independent, locally owned enterprises. 

BENEFIT:

The awards platform will grant these community leaders a $25,000 USD cash prize and connect them to data and insights, access to highly skilled commerce and payments experts, and marketing/brand activations to accelerate their work and impact.