Carolinas Gateway Awards

For decades, the Carolinas have served as a vital gateway for German-American business. Since 2004, when former North Carolina Honorary Consul Klaus Becker first presented the award, the Carolinas Gateway Awards have recognized exceptional companies, organizations, and individuals who embody the spirit of transatlantic partnership.

On September 12, 2026, GACC South’s North and South Carolinas Chapters will bring the German-American business community together at the Mint Museum in Charlotte for an evening celebrating the trailblazers of transatlantic excellence.

Each fall, the Carolinas Gateway Awards shine a spotlight on those who are not only doing business across borders, but building lasting bridges between Germany and the United States. The awards honor outstanding contributions to the German-American economy through bold investments, job creation, innovation, quality, and a strong commitment to community and society.

What to Expect:
Guests can look forward to an elegant evening of recognition, connection, and celebration in one of Charlotte’s signature cultural venues. The program will highlight outstanding companies, organizations, and leaders whose work has helped shape the German-American business landscape across North and South Carolina.

The evening will offer meaningful networking, inspiring award moments, and the opportunity to celebrate the companies and individuals driving transatlantic growth in the Carolinas.

Why Join:
The Carolinas Gateway Awards are one of the region’s signature gatherings for the German-American business community. By joining us, you will be part of an evening that celebrates economic impact, international partnership, and the people and organizations strengthening ties between Germany and the Southeastern United States.

Whether you are a long-standing member of the community or looking to build new connections, this event offers a unique opportunity to engage with leaders, partners, and decision-makers who are shaping the future of German-American business in the Carolinas.

Who You Will Meet:
The event brings together executives, business leaders, investors, economic development representatives, government officials, community partners, and members of the German-American business network across North and South Carolina.

Guests include representatives from German-owned companies, U.S. companies with strong transatlantic ties, regional institutions, sponsors, award finalists and recipients, and key partners who are committed to strengthening the German-American business relationship in the Carolinas.