Meet Anna Pupo | Founder and CEO of Plus Digital

We had the good fortune of connecting with Anna Pupo and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Anna, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
The idea of starting Plus Digital came from a combination of passion and necessity. I’ve always been fascinated by the power of storytelling and how strategic communication can influence behavior and build brands. At the same time, I noticed that so many small businesses—especially in local and underrepresented communities—had amazing products or services but were struggling to be seen online.

I wanted to bridge that gap. So the thought process began with a simple question: What if we could offer not just social media management, but a full digital marketing strategy tailored to real, everyday entrepreneurs? I didn’t want Plus Digital to be another generic agency. I wanted it to be personal, flexible, and driven by results.

At first, I started small—working with just a few clients, learning their challenges, and building custom solutions. As demand grew, I realized this could be much more than a side project. That’s when I committed fully and built a team. Today, Plus Digital is not just about marketing—it’s about empowering businesses to grow with confidence in the digital space.

Starting my own business wasn’t just about being independent. It was about creating impact, choosing who I work with, and building something that reflects my values and creativity.

Alright, so for those in our community who might not be familiar with your business, can you tell us more?
Plus Digital was born from a simple but powerful idea: small businesses deserve big results. We’re a boutique digital marketing agency that offers personalized social media management, brand strategy, and content creation. But what truly sets us apart is how deeply we care about the people behind the businesses — especially women-led, immigrant-owned, and local community brands.

We don’t believe in copy-paste marketing. Every business has a unique voice and mission, and our job is to help that shine. We focus on strategy, storytelling, and results — not just flashy graphics or empty likes.

I’m most proud of the trust we’ve built with our clients. Whether it’s helping a bakery grow their online orders, rebranding a construction company, or launching a new program for a nonprofit — we meet each client where they are and grow with them.

Getting to this point wasn’t easy. Like many entrepreneurs, I started with limited resources, a lot of self-doubt, and zero team. I did everything myself — from writing content to answering emails at midnight. What kept me going was the impact. Seeing a small brand finally get noticed, or hearing that a client got their first online sale — that meant everything to me.

Over time, I learned some key lessons:

Boundaries matter. Burnout doesn’t help anyone.

You can’t be everything to everyone — niche down, focus, and serve well.

And most importantly, relationships are everything. Marketing is human. It’s not about algorithms — it’s about connection.

What I want the world to know about me and Plus Digital is that we’re not just another agency. We’re your partner. We believe in ethical marketing, in lifting up underserved voices, and in making every story count. My journey, from being an immigrant and a mom juggling multiple jobs to building a sustainable agency, is proof that with heart and strategy, you can build something meaningful — and help others do the same.

If you had a friend visiting you, what are some of the local spots you’d want to take them around to?
Oh, I love this question! Charlotte has so much to offer, and when friends visit, I love showing them the real local vibe — a mix of great food, creative spaces, nature, and community. Here’s what I’d plan for a perfect week:”

Day 1 – Arrival + First Impressions
We’d kick off with lunch at Optimist Hall — it’s the perfect intro to Charlotte’s diverse food scene, with everything from dumplings to Southern classics. After that, we’d take a relaxed walk on the Little Sugar Creek Greenway. For dinner, I’d take them to Haberdish in NoDa — the fried chicken and mac & cheese are unforgettable. And to end the day, cocktails at Idlewild, where the bartenders ask what you like and surprise you with a custom drink!

Day 2 – Arts & Uptown Energy
We’d spend the morning at The Mint Museum or Gantt Center to dive into local culture and art. Lunch at La Belle Helene adds a chic, European touch. Afterward, some mural-spotting in South End, including the Confetti Hearts Wall for fun photos. In the evening, we’d head to Merchant & Trade rooftop bar for amazing skyline views and a city sunset.

Day 3 – Farmers Market & Parks
We’d start with a trip to the Charlotte Regional Farmers Market to explore local flavors, followed by brunch at Snooze A.M. Eatery. In the afternoon, we’d relax at Freedom Park with coffee from Not Just Coffee. Dinner would be at Soul Gastrolounge if we can snag a reservation — it’s one of my personal favorites.

Day 4 – Nature Day
A day trip to Crowders Mountain for some hiking and fresh air is a must. If time allows, we’d stop by Veronét Vineyards for a glass of wine and beautiful views. That night, we’d keep it cozy with dinner at Good Food on Montford — seasonal small plates that are always a hit.

Day 5 – Creative Corners
We’d explore Camp North End — it’s like an open-air creative playground, with murals, shops, and cool industrial vibes. Lunch at Leah & Louise brings deep Southern flavor with modern flair. We’d visit CLT Find for some unique local gifts, and maybe end the day with live music at The Evening Muse or a comedy show at The Comedy Zone.

Day 6 – Reset & Recharge
Time to relax with a spa morning at OM Spa. Lunch would be at Living Kitchen — fresh, vibrant, and plant-based. Then I’d take them to a gallery or two or just have a slow day. For dinner, something elegant — like The Fig Tree or Stagioni — to enjoy the finer side of Charlotte dining.

Day 7 – Sweet Goodbye
Brunch at Easy Like Sunday is a perfect send-off — I love their eggs benedict and coffee. A final stroll through Uptown or NoDa, maybe stop for some artisan gelato or Ukrainian pastries (because I always share my roots!). Dinner at Bardo with a chef’s tasting menu would be the grand finale.

“Charlotte is such a special city — creative, diverse, and full of warmth. I love seeing people fall in love with it, one bite and one mural at a time.”

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
Absolutely — no success story happens in isolation, and I’m incredibly grateful for the people and experiences that helped shape mine. First and foremost, I want to shout out my family, who have always believed in me even when I doubted myself. Their love and patience gave me the courage to take risks and grow through challenges.

I also want to recognize the incredible community of small business owners I’ve had the privilege to work with—especially women entrepreneurs, immigrant-owned businesses, and creatives. Their resilience and hustle inspired me daily and reminded me why I started Plus Digital in the first place.

Professionally, I owe a lot to my early mentors and clients who gave me a chance when I was just getting started. They helped me understand not just marketing, but leadership and integrity.

And finally, a big shoutout to all the self-development and strategy books, podcasts, and creators who share knowledge freely—especially those focusing on ethical marketing and inclusive business practices. They gave me tools and perspective that shaped how I run my company today.

Success is never just one person’s journey—it’s a network of encouragement, ideas, and support. I’m grateful to still be learning from so many incredible people.

Website: https://theplusdigital.com

Instagram: @theplusdigital

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annapupo

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61570446809633

Image Credits
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