Submitted by Melissa Meschke, SCEDC
ST. CROIX COUNTY, WI – St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) announced that nominations for 2025 Business of the Year Awards are now open. These awards celebrate excellence, innovation, and impact in the St. Croix County business community. Nominations are open from Wednesday, October 1, 2025, through Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
Each year, the SCEDC recognizes businesses and organizations that contribute to the vitality and success of our local economy and quality of life. New this year, there will now be five categories.
“This is a chance to nominate businesses to help share good news and business successes that are so important to our economy and communities,” said Melissa Meschke, Executive Director of the St. Croix Economic Development Corporation. “Join us in honoring the innovation, dedication, and community spirit of the businesses that make St. Croix County thrive. We look forward to receiving your nominations!”
Award Categories
Emerging Business of the Year: For companies operating less than five years and headquartered in St. Croix County. Small Business of the Year: For companies with 29 or fewer employees, located in St. Croix County for at least five years. Large Business of the Year: For companies with 30 or more employees, located in St. Croix County for at least five years. Non-Profit of the Year: For non-profit organizations making significant contributions to the community. County Impact Award: For organizations addressing regional needs such as daycare, healthcare, workforce education, housing, and more.
Eligibility and Criteria
To be eligible, all nominated operations must be headquartered in St. Croix County. Small and Large Business nominees must have been in operation for at least five years. Emerging Business nominees must be in operation for less than five years.
Nominees will be evaluated across the following five areas: Innovation and Growth, Financial Performance, Community Impact, Sustainability and Environmental Practices, Regional Impact and Overall Excellence.
Special consideration will be given to recent milestones and accomplishments including anniversaries, expansions, product launches, employment or sales growth, workforce training initiatives, and community engagement efforts.
Nomination Details
Nominations open: Wednesday, October 2, 2025. Deadline to submit: Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
Who can nominate? Businesses may self-nominate or be nominated by others. Multiple submissions for the same business do not increase selection odds.
More information: stcroixedc.com/business-of-the-year.
Nomination form: forms.office.com/r/S6qWptMzHH.
Annual Banquet Registration
The honorees will be announced in January and recognized at the St. Croix EDC Annual Banquet on Thursday, February 26, 2026, from 5:00–8:00 p.m. at Ready Randy’s in New Richmond. Help us celebrate their achievements—register to attend at business.stcroixedc.com/events.
The St. Croix EDC St. Croix Economic Development Corporation is a 501(c)6 that supports economic growth and vitality by promoting business development, supporting local employers, and fostering partnerships in St. Croix County, Wisconsin. To learn more please visit stcroixedc.com.
