Grand Awards honor Grand Forks entrepreneurs for innovation, resilience, success – Grand Forks Herald

EAST GRAND FORKS – Seven outstanding entrepreneurs and businesses were honored at the second annual Grand Awards on Tuesday, April 9, at The Prohibition Comedy and Event Center in East Grand Forks.

The occasion, which drew about 80 people, was meant to celebrate local entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to the community in a variety of ways, according to the event organizers. The event showcased the innovation, resilience and success that defines the local business landscape.

The awards and winners are:

Deep Roots Award: Phil Gisi, Edgewood Management Group – recognizing an entrepreneur who makes Grand Forks and East Grand Forks their home and has established themselves as an iconic figure in the community; their legacy and roots run deep here, and they do what they can to help others grow;

Forkin’ Grand Award: Justin Auch and Jonathan Hoth, Urban Stampede – recognizing a company or organization that is doing something right, this is a people’s choice award;

Sky’s the Limit: Sadie Gardner, 322 Hospitality Group – recognizing the exciting potential for this entrepreneurial venture to go above and beyond;

True Grit Award: Michelle Hajicek, Darcy’s Cafe – recognizing an individual who tirelessly works to achieve their aspirations to become a prosperous entrepreneur and consistently shows resilience in overcoming various challenges along their journey;

Social Impact Award: Kay Derry, Northern Roots Boutique – recognizing an entrepreneur who cares about others, strives to create a sense of community and inspires others through their process; and

Trailblazer Award: Rachael Eider, RH Standard – the award is given to a woman who deserves recognition and visibility in their industry; it serves as a powerful testament to the hard work, leadership and determination of trailblazing women who inspire others to follow in their footsteps.

At the event, Eider was represented at the event by Jill Proctor; Gardner was represented by Allison Johnson.

The Greater Grand Forks String Quartet provided the musical entertainment.

Event sponsors were Harry’s Steakhouse, Gate City Bank, Bifrost Manufacturing, Frandsen Bank and Trust, and The 701 Fund.

Evolve Grand Forks and the Grand Forks Entrepreneurial Ecosystem hosted the event.

Members of the Grand Forks Entrepreneurial Ecosystem including the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation, Evolve Grand Forks, the Greater Grand Forks Young Professionals, Chamber of Commerce, Downtown Development Association, City of Grand Forks, SCORE, Small Business Development Center and UND Center for Innovation.