FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: March 17, 2026
Durham & Chapel Hill, NC — Therapy Smarts, a leading pediatric therapy provider serving families across the Triangle, has been named a 2026 FAST 100 Asian American Business honoree, a prestigious national recognition celebrating the fastest-growing Asian American-owned companies in the United States.
The award is presented by the U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation (USPAACC) and will be recognized at the annual CelebrASIAN Business + Procurement Conference, the nation’s largest business development and procurement conference convened by Pan Asian American businesses.
The FAST 100 Asian American Business Award highlights companies demonstrating exceptional revenue growth, innovation, and impact, recognizing them as key contributors to the U.S. economy.
A Milestone Achievement for a Family-Owned Practice
Therapy Smarts was founded in 2016 by Avani Shah, a speech-language pathologist and entrepreneur whose vision was to create a practice centered on compassionate, family-focused pediatric care.
Now, as the organization celebrates its 10-year anniversary in 2026, Therapy Smarts has grown into one of the Triangle’s leading pediatric therapy providers, with a team of nearly 100 employees dedicated to serving children and families across the region.
In January 2025, Sarup Shah joined the organization as Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer, bringing with him a long and successful career in the Triangle’s technology sector. Since stepping into this leadership role, Sarup has played a pivotal role in scaling operations and strategic growth, including guiding the team through the opening of Therapy Smarts’ second clinic in Chapel Hill, North Carolina in May 2025.
“This recognition is incredibly meaningful to us,” said Avani Shah, Founder and CEO. “As a South Asian, family-owned business, we are proud to represent our community while building something that makes a real difference in the lives of children and families every day—especially as we celebrate 10 years of impact.”
Sarup Shah added, “The FAST 100 honor reflects not only our growth, but the dedication of our nearly 100 team members and the trust families place in us. We are excited about what lies ahead as we continue expanding access to high-quality pediatric therapy across the Triangle.”
Growth Rooted in Purpose
Therapy Smarts has experienced rapid expansion in recent years, growing its footprint across Durham and Chapel Hill while continuing to invest in comprehensive, family-centered care. The practice offers a full range of pediatric services including:
The company’s growth aligns with the mission of the FAST 100 program, which recognizes businesses that are “building the American Dream” through job creation, innovation, and community impact.
Elevating Asian American Entrepreneurship
The FAST 100 program shines a national spotlight on Asian American-owned businesses that are driving economic growth through resilience, innovation, and leadership.
Honorees will be celebrated on a national stage alongside corporate leaders, government agencies, and fellow entrepreneurs at the CelebrASIAN Conference in June 2026.
Growth Rooted in Purpose
Therapy Smarts has experienced rapid expansion in recent years, growing its footprint across Durham and Chapel Hill while continuing to invest in comprehensive, family-centered care. The practice offers a full range of pediatric services including: The company’s growth aligns with the mission of the FAST 100 program, which recognizes businesses that are “building the American Dream” through job creation, innovation, and community impact.
Elevating Asian American Entrepreneurship
The FAST 100 program shines a national spotlight on Asian American-owned businesses that are driving economic growth through resilience, innovation, and leadership.
Honorees will be celebrated on a national stage alongside corporate leaders, government agencies, and fellow entrepreneurs at the CelebrASIAN Conference in June 2026.
Click the link below to learn more about U.S. Pan Asian American Chamber of Commerce Education Foundation (USPAACC) or the CelebrASIAN Conference.
ABOUT THERAPY SMARTS
Through play therapy, exploration of their environment, and joyful engagement- Therapy Smarts of Durham and Chapel Hill help improve your child’s communication, motor, behavior, & social skills. Click below to learn more about our services.
JOIN OUR TEAM
Are you a pediatric therapist looking to grow your career with a supportive, innovative team? Join Therapy Smarts of Durham and Chapel Hill — recently ranked #1,792 on Inc. Magazine’s 2025 Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing companies in America!
We’re passionate about helping children thrive — and helping our team members do the same. Apply today!
