Maryann Pagano and Jason Caparoso: Celebrating Entrepreneurial Excellence as EY US Finalists

Celebrating Innovation and Leadership

Maryann Pagano and Jason Caparoso, the dynamic duo behind BlackHawk Data, have recently been recognized as finalists for the prestigious Entrepreneur Of The Year® 2026 New York Award, awarded by Ernst & Young LLP (EY US). This acknowledgment, marking the 41st year of the Entrepreneur Of The Year program, highlights the ambitious entrepreneurs whose visionary approaches are not only transforming the business landscape but also uplifting communities.

The selection of Pagano and Caparoso from a competitive pool of 33 finalists illustrates the duo's significant impact in the tech industry. They were evaluated based on criteria such as entrepreneurial spirit, company growth, purpose, and their enduring influence on building long-term value. Maryann Pagano, CEO and Co-Founder, expressed her pride in this recognition by stating, "Being named a finalist is not just an honor for me; it reflects the collaborative journey we've crafted with our clients, partners, and our dedicated team. We've always aimed to deliver technology solutions that tackle genuine problems and create meaningful outcomes. This award validates the hard work we have invested in establishing a firm rooted in trust, integrity, and long-term relationships."

Alongside her, CTO and Co-Founder Jason Caparoso echoed these sentiments, emphasizing the values that underpin their operations: "The best technology is purposeful and thoughtfully designed to yield real results. Our recognition as finalists emphasizes our commitment to engineering effective solutions that simplify complexities and genuinely endorse our clients' success. We are thankful to our customers and partners for their enduring trust in our capabilities."

Founded in 2018, BlackHawk Data specializes in providing secure and tailored IT, alongside infrastructure solutions aimed at assisting organizations in navigating today's intricate technological environment. Their clientele spans various sectors, including enterprise, healthcare, finance, and public services, where they strive to deliver flexible, transparent solutions that create long-lasting value. Their client-first ethos, complemented by profound technical expertise, has positioned BlackHawk Data as a reliable partner in the field.

EY's Entrepreneur Of The Year program celebrates pioneers who display courage, ingenuity, and an unwavering entrepreneurial spirit. The awards encompass a broad spectrum of business leaders, from original founders who built their enterprise from the ground up to transformational CEOs who have integrated innovation within established organizations. This year’s New York finalists hail from diverse industries, including technology, consumer products, manufacturing, and financial services.

Winners at the regional level will be declared on June 16 at an exclusive event in Manhattan, gaining lifetime membership in a distinguished community of Entrepreneur Of The Year alumni worldwide. Following this, these winners may vie for national recognition within the prestigious Strategic Growth Forum® in November, attended by influential figures in the business world.

A notable aspect of this year’s event is its sponsorship by esteemed organizations such as PNC Bank, Marsh USA, and SAP. In addition to these, regional sponsors like ADP and DLA Piper also play a significant role in recognizing entrepreneurial excellence.

With more than 11,000 ambitious and innovative leaders celebrated since its inception in 1986, the Entrepreneur Of The Year program has expanded into nearly 80 countries, underscoring its global significance. The national overall winner will represent the United States in the World Entrepreneur Of The Year® competition, highlighting the breadth and depth of leadership excellence originating from the US.

As BlackHawk Data continues to forge ahead, the foundation laid by Maryann Pagano and Jason Caparoso remains a beacon for aspiring entrepreneurs, illustrating the profound impact that values-driven leadership can have in the business domain. Their journey reflects the potential for technology to bridge gaps, solve issues, and drive substantial change across various sectors. For further insights into BlackHawk Data’s mission and values, you can visit their official website, blackhawk11.com.