Cornelius entrepreneur and former elected official John Bradford III, founder and chief executive of PetScreening, has been named a finalist in the Southeast region for Ernst & Young’s 2026 Entrepreneur Of The Year.

The program recognizes business leaders across Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina and Tennessee who are driving growth and innovation. Bradford was selected from a pool of 35 finalists by an independent panel of judges evaluating entrepreneurial spirit, company performance and community impact.

PetScreening, based in Mooresville, provides a digital platform for tenant and pet screening used by property managers nationwide. Organizers said Bradford’s selection reflects his role in scaling the company and shaping property technology services.

Bradford served four terms in the North Carolina House of Representatives, representing the 98th district in North Mecklenburg, before founding the company.

Bradford is among 35 Southeast finalists in the 41st year program class honor, and one of only two in the Charlotte area, joining Community Concierge Services CEO Cody Campbell.

Winners will be announced June 18, with regional award recipients advancing to national consideration at the EY Strategic Growth Forum in November.