Legacy Award to be presented to Stellar Industries, Inc.

The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center will host the 2024 Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala on Thursday, October 3, 2024 at NIACC.

The Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala celebrates the entrepreneurs and partners who make our communities a great place to work and live. The Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala will share our story, showcase the achievements of North Iowa entrepreneurs, and honor the recipient of the prestigious Legacy Award, presented this year to Stellar Industries, Inc. for their vital contributions and support to North Iowa.

Five additional recognitions will be awarded at the gala. The NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center is now accepting nominations for these awards:

• Entrepreneur of the Year Award -The Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes the success, dedication, and contributions to the community by a North Iowa entrepreneur.
• Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award – The Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award recognizes the accomplishments of a North Iowa entrepreneur under the age of 40.
• Student Entrepreneur of the Year Award – This award recognizes a student entrepreneur who exemplifies the entrepreneurial spirit through the achievement of business ownership. Must be a North Iowa student enrolled in High School or College taking college credit classes to be eligible.
• Business of the Year Award -The Business of the Year Award recognizes a North Iowa company for overall achievement in innovation, vision, growth, and skill.
• Innovation Award – The Innovation Award honors North Iowa entrepreneurs who are industry leaders in developing and implementing emergent technology, product innovations, and/or service innovations.

Nominations can be made by contacting the Pappajohn Center directly for an application, or on the Pappajohn Center website at www.pappajohncenter.com/gala. Nominations are due August 22, 2024.

Sponsorship opportunities are available. For more information, contact Candi Karsjens at candi.karsjens@niacc.edu or call the Pappajohn Center at 641-422-4111.

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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