Announcing the 2024 Annual Award Winners
Grow Cedar Valley is thrilled to announce the recipients of the 2024 Annual Awards, honoring businesses, organizations, and individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the Cedar Valley. These awards recognize achievements across areas such as inclusion, leadership, community impact, and economic growth.
The winners represent the dedication, collaboration, and innovation that drive the Cedar Valley forward. Stay tuned as we highlight each of these remarkable recipients and their contributions leading up to the Annual Celebration on April 3, 2025!
2024 Annual Award Categories
Legacy Award
2024 Recipient: Jean Trainor
This award honors an individual for their visionary leadership and noteworthy contributions to the Cedar Valley. Through philanthropy, volunteerism, and innovative efforts, they have paved the way for others by fostering a positive environment for business expansion, driving community growth, and enhancing the quality of life to attract and retain top talent.
Cedar Valley Business Leader Award
2024 Recipient: Mike Mallaro
The Cedar Valley Business Leader Award honors an exceptional individual who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in fostering regional collaboration and cooperation for economic and community development. Through both their professional work and volunteer efforts, this leader has made a significant impact on the growth and success of the Cedar Valley and embodies a spirit of partnership, vision, and dedication, driving meaningful progress that benefits businesses, residents, and the entire community.
Emerging Professional Award (New in 2024)
2024 Recipient: Don Patnode, PDCM Insurance
The Emerging Professional Award recognizes an inspiring individual, age 40 and under, who’s making a meaningful impact both in their career and in the community. This award celebrates rising leaders who not only excel in their fields but also step up to drive positive change in the Cedar Valley. Whether through innovative ideas, dedicated service, or leading by example, this professional is helping build a brighter future for us all.
Cedar Valley Cultivating Opportunity Award
2024 Recipient: Talk to Me Technologies
This award celebrates a business or organization that demonstrates exemplary leadership by fostering an environment of inclusion and belonging. This award honors those who actively create spaces where individuals feel valued, empowered, and able to contribute their best, positively impacting both their organization and the broader community.
Business of the Year Award (1-50 Employees)
2024 Recipient: Amperage Marketing & Fundraising
Business of the Year Award (51+ Employees)
2024 Recipient: Farmers State Bank
The Business of the Year Award celebrates a Cedar Valley business that has demonstrated exceptional success, innovation, and community involvement over the past year. This award recognizes a company that not only excels in its industry but also goes above and beyond to contribute to the local economy, support its employees, and engage in meaningful community initiatives.
John Deere Economic Impact Award
2024 Recipient: Wartburg College
The Economic Impact Award recognizes a standout project that has made a significant impact on the Cedar Valley’s economy in 2024. This award honors a project that has driven measurable economic growth through strategic investments, infrastructure development, or transformative initiatives that enhance the region’s economic landscape.
Cedar Valley Partner Award
2024 Recipient: Union Block
Union Block organizations include: Waterloo Community Foundation, Black Hawk County Gaming Association, McElroy Trust, and Otto Schoitz Foundation
The Cedar Valley Partner Award honors a non-profit organization, service club, or agency that has made a meaningful and measurable impact on regional economic growth. This award recognizes organizations dedicated to driving real, positive change through continuous efforts or a specific project that contributes to the economic and social vitality of the Cedar Valley.
Live the Valley Award (New in 2024)
2024 Recipient: Main Street Waterloo
The Live the Valley Award celebrates a business, organization, or initiative that has significantly enhanced the Cedar Valley as a place where people love to live, work, and play. This award honors those who create lively, inclusive, and welcoming spaces that enrich our community's character and quality of life. These efforts make the Cedar Valley a destination for talent and a home for those seeking fulfillment in both career and community.
Congratulations to all of our 2024 Annual Award winners! We look forward to celebrating your achievements on April 3, 2025!
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