Small businesses often see opportunities others overlook. This year’s AT&T Small Business Contest finalists are creating new ways for people to come together, opening the door to athletics, expanding food access, and helping sport fans turn their loyalty into impact.
We received more than 8,250 entries from small business owners at different stages across industries. From long-standing neighborhood institutions to innovative startups, every application reflects the resilience that defines small business owners. What makes this contest so special is the opportunity to celebrate the people behind those businesses and connect them with the resources and support to fuel their next chapter.
Having had the opportunity to be a business owner, I know firsthand the passion and determination it takes to build something that lasts. Serving on this year’s selection committee reinforced what I’ve seen throughout my career: meaningful connections help businesses grow, communities thrive, and greater possibilities emerge.
The five finalists in the 2026 AT&T Small Business Contest.
Meet the Five Finalists in the 2026 AT&T Small Business Contest
Alongside my fellow judges, Sarita Rao, Head of AT&T International Ecosystem Solutions; Val Vargas, SVP of Creative Content and Advertising; and Zee Hussain, SVP of Global Enterprise Solutions, I’m honored to share the top five finalists for the 2026 AT&T Small Business Contest:
Dope People Meet (Atlanta, GA) was founded by Porchia Marie to create inclusive experiences that bring people together through the power of play while fostering authentic relationships, healthier lifestyles, and economic opportunities. Through DPM® League, Porchia is reimagining the traditional intramural sports experience by blending competitive co-ed sports with live entertainment, wellness activations, networking opportunities, small business exposure, and community engagement. By bringing sports, culture, and connection together under one platform, DPM® League is creating new ways for people to build community both on and beyond the field.
Flovara (Hollywood, FL) is a tech company that reflects founders Eduardo Flores and Stephen Hopkins' vision of curing modern social isolation by turning physical venues into interactive, real-world social hubs. Its flagship mobile platform is Bente, a location-based social and gamified infrastructure designed to revolutionize how young adults form authentic, safe, real-world connections. Through Flovara, Eduardo and Steve are helping to reimagine how technology can bring people together and strengthen local communities.
Mission Valley Track & Field Club (Union City, CA) has spent 45 years helping people develop into stronger, healthier, and more confident individuals regardless of their financial situation, personal struggles, or athletic ability. Founded by Lee Webb, the organization supports many participants from underserved communities where access to organized athletics, educational support, and mentorship is limited. Through free cross country and track and field programs, mentorship, education, and community service, Mission Valley uses the power of connection to positively shape futures.
Prosperity Market (Los Angeles, CA) was launched by Carmen Dianne and Kara Still in 2020 during the pandemic when connecting in person was especially challenging. Their mission is rooted in building community through connection. Today, the mobile farmers’ market and online marketplace create opportunities for farmers, food producers, chefs, and artisans while helping transform their local ecosystem and economy through agriculture, food access, nutrition education, and community partnerships.
REP MVP By TRES J (Dallas, TX) was founded by Jess Jan on the belief that fandom should bring people together. The sports division of her jewelry brand TRES J, carried across three continents, REP MVP brings officially licensed sports jewelry to female sports fans, building connection, identity, community, and a story. Through Jess's charity of choice model, REP MVP directs support toward causes its collaborators care about, turning fan loyalty into community impact.
She’s Connected by AT&T
Later this year, we’ll announce our grand prize winner. Four finalists will receive $5,000 to invest in their business, while one winner will receive a grand total of $50,000, a year of AT&T service with a new device, and access to resources, tools, and a growing community designed to help small businesses thrive.
The grand prize winner will also be featured in an upcoming episode of She’s Connected by AT&T, a docu-style series now in its sixth season that highlights entrepreneurs breaking barriers across sports and business and paving the way for the next generation.
Our newest She’s Connected episode features Sabrina Ionescu, point guard for the New York Liberty and one of the most accomplished players in the game. In the episode, Sabrina reflects on how she’s balancing life as an elite athlete, entrepreneur, part-owner of the National Women’s Soccer League's Bay FC, and philanthropist while creating opportunities for the next generation through her foundation, SI20 Foundation.
"Who I am as an athlete has always been embodied in what I'm trying to accomplish as a businessperson," Sabrina shared. "Both of my parents from a young age instilled the confidence in me to lead by example, believe in myself, and work really hard when all the odds are stacked against me. This has helped shape who I am and how I lead in business."
Congratulations to our finalists and to everyone who applied this year. Your stories are a reminder that innovation and connection continue to drive positive change in communities across the country.
We look forward to announcing this year's winner in November.
Learn more about the five AT&T Small Business Contest finalists and their businesses
