Zach Haptonstall of Rise48 Equity Recognized as 2026 EY Entrepreneur Of The Year Finalist

Zach Haptonstall of Rise48 Equity: Acknowledged as a 2026 Entrepreneur Of The Year Finalist

In a significant achievement for the multifamily real estate sector, Zach Haptonstall, the Co-Founder and CEO of Rise48 Equity, was recently announced as a finalist for the renowned Entrepreneur Of The Year 2026 Pacific Southwest Award hosted by Ernst & Young LLP (EY US). This event, which celebrates bold market disruptors and innovators, marks its 41st year in honoring visionary leaders who demonstrate exceptional entrepreneurial spirit and contribute positively to economic growth.

Zach has been selected by a panel of independent judges who recognized his impactful leadership, driving the remarkable expansion and sustained value of Rise48 Equity. His dedication to the mission of creating a scalable platform that benefits investors, residents, and employees has resonated throughout the community and beyond. In his own words, he remarked, "This recognition reflects the resilience, grit, and commitment of everyone at Rise48. Our mission has always been to build a scalable platform that creates long-term value—for our investors, residents, employees, and communities. I'm grateful to our team, investors, and partners. This honor belongs to all of them."

Founded in 2019, Rise48 Equity is committed to multifamily real estate investments that yield passive income, tax advantages, and long-term wealth for both accredited and non-accredited investors alike. Under Haptonstall's guidance, the firm has expanded its workforce to over 300 employees, managing more than 12,500 units across Arizona, Texas, and North Carolina. Furthermore, the company has successfully acquired assets exceeding $2.6 billion and currently boasts over $2.2 billion in assets under management.

Rise48 Equity stands out in the market due to its vertically integrated framework that includes in-house property management, construction services, and a proprietary investor portal. This operational efficiency ensures seamless experiences for residents while empowering investors with control over their investments. The company's growth illustrates the substantial impact of its innovative approach in a competitive industry.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards highlight remarkable business leaders recognized for their ingenuity, tenacity, and entrepreneurial spirit. The Pacific Southwest finalists include inspiring leaders from southern California, Arizona, and Nevada across diverse industries, all chosen for their exceptional contributions and leadership within their sectors. Regional winners will be announced on June 6, 2026, in Orange County, with the opportunity to join the lifelong alumni community of the Entrepreneur Of The Year.

After regional honors are unveiled, the selected finalists will vie for national recognition at the Strategic Growth Forum in November. Notably, the national winner will represent the United States at the global Entrepreneur Of The Year competition.

The Entrepreneur Of The Year program is not only a celebration of success; it signifies EY's commitment to supporting bold leaders who think creatively to drive the economy forward. With partners like PNC Bank, Cresa, LLC, and the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation, EY continues to enrich the landscape of entrepreneurial influence.

Zach Haptonstall's recognition as a finalist affirms his leadership in the real estate sector and encapsulates the innovative spirit driving Rise48 Equity's success. The firm’s trajectory is a testament to what visionary leadership combined with a steadfast commitment to community growth can achieve.

For more on the Entrepreneur Of The Year program and Zach Haptonstall’s journey at Rise48 Equity, visit EY’s official website.