2023

Executive of The Year: Howard Makler

Entrepreneur / Executive

Category

Executives & Professionals of the Year - Entrepreneur of the Year

Client's Name

Innovation Refunds

Country / Region

United States

In 2021, Howard Makler established Innovation Refunds to help facilitate the growth of small and mid-sized businesses (SMBs) by democratizing access to working capital through government-funded programs like the Employee Retention Credit (ERC).

Studies show that the number of SMBs applying for ERC is well below those who are eligible – leaving billions of dollars unclaimed. Makler believed that was due, in part, to the extensive process and requirements to determine eligibility. Historically, SMBs were required to hire a tax professional directly – incurring upfront costs – and spend time away from their business to find out if they were eligible.

Makler believed there was a better way and built Innovation Refunds to disrupt the conventional model. He created a marketplace of CPAs, tax attorneys, and other tax professionals who examine SMBs tax situations and determine their eligibility – without any up-front costs. Clients only pay if they are qualified, file for the ERC, and receive a check from the government.

Credits

Founder and CEO, Innovation Refunds
Howard Makler
 
2023
SOAX
Customer Service

Entrant

SOAX

Category

Customer Service - Best Innovation in Customer Service

Country / Region

United Kingdom

 
2023
Freshmore
Product & Services

Entrant

SHANGHAI FINC BIO-TECH INC.

Category

Product & Services - Food & Beverage

Country / Region

China

 
2023
Melissa Wong, CEO and Co-Founder
Entrepreneur

Entrant

Zipline

Category

Entrepreneur - Retail

Country / Region

United States

 
2023
Affinix - Big Data Solution
Business Technology Solutions

Entrant

PeopleScout

Category

Business Technology Solutions - Big Data Solution

Country / Region

United States