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2024 Annual Award Categories
Cedar Valley Cultivating Opportunity Award
This award celebrates a business or organization that demonstrates exemplary leadership by fostering an environment of inclusion and belonging. Nominees should embody a commitment to embedding inclusive practices into their operations, cultivating a workplace culture where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and supported. 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.
Past Winners (formerly Economic Diversity & Inclusion Award):
2023 – Community Bank & Trust
2022 – Western Home Communities
2021 – CBE Companies
2020 – Friendship Village
2019 – Inclusion Connection (small company) & UNI (large company)
2018 – UnityPoint Health – Allen Hospital
Emerging Professional Award (New in 2024)
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, these professionals are helping build a brighter future for us all.
Cedar Valley Business Leader Award
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. Nominees should embody a spirit of partnership, vision, and dedication, driving meaningful progress that benefits businesses, residents, and the entire community.
Past Winners:
2023 – Bob Greenwood
2022 – Mark Kittrell
2021 – Katy Susong
2020 – Milt Dakovich
2019 – Pamela Delagardelle
2018 – Sue Armbrecht
Business of the Year Award
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. Nominees personify the spirit of business leadership and serve as an example of how businesses can thrive while making a positive impact on the Cedar Valley.
Please note: The Business of the Year Award will be presented in two categories: 1-50 full-time employees and 51+ full-time employees.
Past Winners (1-50 full-time employees):
2023 – ALL-IN-GROCERS
2022 – AECOM Technical Services
2021 SERPRO of Black Hawk County
2020 – ISG
2019- Waterloo Black Hawks
2018 – Bloom Manufacturing
Past Winners (51+ full-time employees):
2023 – Warren Transport, Inc.
2022 – Fahr Beverage
2021 – Soifer Family McDonald’s
2020 – Crystal Distribution Services
2019 – Advanced Heat Treat Corp.
2018 – Omega Cabinetry/MasterBrand Cabinets
John Deere Economic Impact Award
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. Nominees should demonstrate a commitment to strengthening the Cedar Valley’s economy by creating opportunities for business expansion, increasing regional competitiveness, and contributing to the overall vitality of the community.
Past Winners:
2023 – Hawkeye Community College – Automation and Robotics Center
2022 – Lost Island Themepark
2021 – Lincoln Savings Bank
2020 – Holiday Inn Suites & Bein VenU Event Center, Open Door Hospitality
2019 – VGM Group, Inc.
2018 – KWWL Television, Inc.
Cedar Valley Partner Award
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.
Nominees should demonstrate innovative approaches, measurable outcomes, and a commitment to fostering an inclusive and sustainable community, ultimately strengthening the region for residents and businesses alike. This award celebrates impactful initiatives that uplift the Cedar Valley by expanding opportunities, enhancing quality of life, and creating a thriving environment for all.
Past Winners:
2023 – North Star Community Services
2022 – 24/7 BLAC
2021 – UnityPoint Health – Black Hawk-Grundy Mental Health Center
2020 – Allen College, UnityPoint Health
2019 – Northeast Iowa Food Bank
2018 – UNI
Live the Valley Award (New in 2024)
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. Nominees should demonstrate dedication to placemaking through projects or programs that strengthen the Cedar Valley’s appeal, offering residents and newcomers a genuine sense of belonging and joy.
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