Goldsboro, N.C. — The Firehouse in downtown Goldsboro was alive with energy on Thursday, as the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual Launch Party & Small Business Meet-Up to honor the latest graduates of the Launch Wayne program. The event celebrated the achievements of local entrepreneurs who successfully completed the 12-week business development initiative, which offers training, networking opportunities, and access to capital through generous community partnerships and sponsors.

This year marked a major milestone for the program, with a record-breaking amount of funding raised—allowing for not one but three standout businesses to be recognized with awards.

Pearlie Gail’s Bakery, founded by Sharon Evans Thompson, took home the top honor. Inspired by her grandmother, whom she affectionately named her sourdough starter “Pearlie” after, Thompson credited the program with giving her the knowledge and confidence to expand her homegrown business. “For me, I learned a lot, and I highly encourage anyone to go through the program,” she said, applauding the collaborative and supportive environment it fosters.

The second-place award went to Fairwinds Aviation, founded by Christina Sargent. Dedicated to creating access for underprivileged youth interested in aviation, Fairwinds provides scholarships and spearheads community outreach initiatives, including emergency airlifts and disaster relief missions through its nonprofit foundation.

Sarah Limon Benavides, who moved to Seymour Johnson Air Force Base from Texas in 2017, earned the third award. Alongside her husband, Benavides realized a long-held dream of business ownership much earlier than expected. The couple now runs SolFit and BarreHaus, a joint fitness and wellness studio that has quickly become a hub for community well-being. “This amazing program gave us the tools to master our endeavors,” she said.

The event also served as a valuable networking opportunity, with established local business owners attending to share insights and support the next wave of entrepreneurs. It was a testament to the close-knit yet forward-looking spirit of Wayne County’s business community.

Launch Wayne continues to be a beacon for small business development in the region, offering a platform for local changemakers to connect, grow, and thrive.

For more information on upcoming events and future Launch Wayne programs, visit the Wayne County Chamber of Commerce website at www.waynecountychamber.com.

Check out the photo gallery by Chelsea Collins: @chelseacollins.co