MASON CITY, Iowa – The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center will host the NIACC Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala on Tuesday, October 29, 2019. The NIACC Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala celebrates the entrepreneurs and partners who make our communities a great place to work and live. The NIACC Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala will share our story, recognize the region’s entrepreneurs, and honor John K. and Luise V. Hanson’s vital contributions and support to North Iowa with the NIACC Pappajohn Legacy Award.

Four additional recognitions will be awarded at the gala: Entrepreneur of the Year, Young Entrepreneur of the Year (Under 40), Business of the Year, and the Innovation Award. Nominations can be made by contacting the Pappajohn Center directly for an application, or on the Pappajohn Center website (www.niacc.edu/pappajohn/gala).

We are pleased to announce Gary Schoeniger, co-author of the book, “Who Owns the Ice House? Eight Life Lessons from an Unlikely Entrepreneur”, as the keynote speaker and invited guests, Governor Kim Reynolds, Director Debi Durham, IEDA, and John and Mary Pappajohn.

Sponsorship opportunities to underwrite the gala and support the NIACC Pappajohn Center and North Iowa Area SBDC are available. In order to take full benefit of sponsorship, please express level of commitment by August 25, 2019 to Tim Putnam at 641-422-4192 or Tim.Putnam@niacc.edu.

The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center is the expert in rural business innovation and success. In partnership with North Iowa’s Small Business Development Center, together we provide tools, support, and resources to Iowa’s entrepreneurs. We counsel both new and existing local businesses, from Main Street to industry leaders. We are growing Iowa’s entrepreneurial culture through grade school initiatives, college and community programs, and business training and development. Contact the NIACC Pappajohn Center at 641-422-4111 or pappajohn@niacc.edu.

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