Recognition

Honoring Southern Business Leaders

Our annual recognition programs celebrate the founders, executives, and innovators whose work is shaping the South's economic future.

2026Nominations Open

Southern CEO 50

The 50 most influential business leaders across the South — founders, executives, and innovators whose work is defining the region's economic future.

50 honorees

2026Nominations Open

Celebrating the women-led companies and executive leaders driving growth, innovation, and impact across Southern industries.

25 honorees

2026Coming Soon

Emerging founders and rising executives under 40 who are building the next generation of Southern business.

30 honorees

2026Coming Soon

Multi-generational businesses that have built lasting legacies — and the families keeping them thriving in a changing economy.

20 honorees

Past Honorees

Darnell Washington

CEO, Meridian Group

Southern CEO 50 2025

Alicia Monroe

Founder, SwiftLogix

Ones to Watch 2025

Marcus Tillman

CEO, Tillman Ventures

Southern CEO 50 2025

Dana Reeves

President, Reeves Family Holdings

Family Enterprises 2025

Nominations for our 2026 recognition programs are now open. Submit your nomination and help us celebrate the leaders shaping Southern business.