Mike Morra

Small businesses don't just serve their communities. They shape them. For these businesses, supporting communities and addressing environmental challenges are central to their work. Global Citizen and PayPal created the Small Business Impact Awards to support entrepreneurs addressing social or environmental challenges. This year, 15 small business owners across four regions will each receive $20,000 USD to help grow their businesses.

In 2025 alone, over 200 climate-related disasters affected more than 87.8 million people worldwide. According to the UN Office for Disaster Risk Reduction, 7,348 major disasters were recorded between 2000 and 2019, compared with 4,212 recorded between 1980 and 1999. A disaster can quickly disrupt access to essentials such as clean clothes, running water, and soap. For families rebuilding, these everyday essentials may be difficult to access.

Technology that helps grow food in challenging climates without soil. A toilet that requires no water, sewer, or plumbing. A sanitary pad made from agricultural waste that can help girls stay in school. Three innovations, three innovators, and one shared goal: developing practical solutions to challenges affecting communities around the world. Now in its 12th year, the Global Citizen Waislitz Awards are recognizing three exceptional individuals working to end extreme poverty.