JACKSONVILLE, N.C. — The Jacksonville Onslow Chamber of Commerce held its annual awards luncheon on Oct. 8, marking a pivotal moment in the organization’s history. The event, previously known as the Minority Enterprise Development luncheon, was rebranded this year as the “Business Diversity Awards,” reflecting a modernized, holistic approach to community leadership.
The ceremony highlighted the region’s evolving professional landscape, where local entrepreneurs are increasingly leveraging digital tools, community-focused business models, and collaborative networking to drive economic growth in Onslow County.
A Strategic Shift Toward Inclusion
The rebranding of the event follows years of organizational development. According to Adrienne James, chair of the Business Diversity Council, the chamber has spent nearly two decades championing minority-owned businesses. The transition to a “Business Diversity” framework was prompted by a comprehensive inclusion plan initiated in 2018.
“The name change does not diminish the importance of recognizing minority entrepreneurs or the challenges they have overcome,” James said. “Rather, it allows us to expand the conversation and celebrate the full spectrum of diversity within our business community.”
This shift mirrors broader trends in the tech and business world, where organizations are moving away from siloed diversity initiatives in favor of inclusive ecosystems. Much like how modern AI platforms are being optimized to handle diverse datasets to minimize bias, the Chamber is evolving its outreach to reflect the multifaceted backgrounds and experiences of modern entrepreneurs.
Honoring Advocates and Digital-Savvy Entrepreneurs
The event’s top honors went to leaders who demonstrate high-level engagement with the community. Pat Fontana, publisher of Onslow Business and founder of Words Working, received the 2026 Linda L. Richardson Business Advocate of the Year award.
Fontana has been instrumental in bridging the gap between established professionals and the next generation of workers. Beyond her publishing work, she facilitates “Business Over Breakfast” networking sessions and coordinates programs connecting career and technical education students with local industries. Her work highlights the importance of content curation and digital information hubs in fostering professional development, a sector that continues to see innovation through AI-driven analytical tools that help small businesses optimize their operations.
Community-Driven Leadership at Eggs Up Grill
The 2026 Diverse Entrepreneurs of the Year award was presented to the ownership team behind the Jacksonville location of Eggs Up Grill. The franchise partners—Joseph and Tomeka Benton, Sammie and Estrella “Star” Rogers, and Shantá Cooks—were recognized for more than just their culinary venture.
The team’s success is rooted in a culture of “hands-on leadership” and extensive community service. Their backgrounds read like a roadmap for modern community building: military service, social work, environmental management, and education. By integrating their individual professional passions—such as running nonprofits for homeless families and founding counseling services—into their business model, they have created a collaborative enterprise that emphasizes social impact alongside profitability.
Sustaining Momentum Through Technology and Engagement
Looking forward, the Chamber’s Business Diversity Council aims to maintain this momentum by continuing its year-round programming, which includes dedicated events for Black History Month, Women’s History Month, and the Hispanic Heritage Vendor Fair.
Lashea Cavers, the Chamber’s business diversity consultant, emphasized that the organization is actively seeking to integrate more local businesses into its support network. As the business climate becomes increasingly influenced by digital transformation—from automated inventory management to data-driven marketing—the Chamber is positioned to act as a central hub, ensuring that all entrepreneurs, regardless of background, have access to the resources and insights necessary to thrive in an increasingly connected global economy.
The luncheon was made possible by major corporate sponsors, including Jones-Onslow Electric Membership Corp., Marine Federal Credit Union, and Onslow Memorial Hospital, all of whom are signaling a continued investment in the diverse future of North Carolina’s business landscape.
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