America’s SBDC Iowa has announced the winners of its 2022 special entrepreneur awards.
“We are honored to have clients who have worked diligently to move their businesses forward while showing a strong commitment to their communities and customers,” said Lisa Shimkat, State Director of America’s SBDC Iowa in a release. “We are delighted to be able to recognize their hard work and success with these awards.”
Below are the three winners of this year’s awards:
Think Big Award (Jackson Kimle, Kimle Aquaculture)
Jackson Kimle with Kimle Aquaculture is the 2022 winner of the SBDC Think Big Award. The Think Big Award recognizes an up-and-coming entrepreneur who has displayed extraordinary potential on their entrepreneurial journey. This award is given to an individual who not only develops their own business ideas, but encourages others to participate in the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Iowa.
“Jackson has been working with the Iowa SBDC at the Iowa State University center since 2016. I was instantly impressed with his passion for creating a sustainable ‘tank-to-table’ business model that provides fresh shrimp to consumers right here in the Midwest. Every time we connect he always has something to share about how they are pursuing and meeting key milestones,” said Dave Biedenbach, SBDC Mentor.
Tenacity and Grit Award (Krista Tedrow, No Opportunity Wasted)
Krista Tedrow with No Opportunity Wasted is the 2022 SBDC Tenacity and Grit Award winner. The Tenacity and Grit Award recognizes an entrepreneur who has an unstoppable spirit. Although they have faced challenges along their journey, they achieved their goals and success without giving up or backing down. They lift up others around them.
“I have the privilege of working with Krista on clarifying her growth goals for her company. She has great vision, energy and passion for her business and the success of other entrepreneurs.” Krista Tedrow has overcome adversity and is a role model to many,” said Kelly Prickett, Regional Director of the Indian Hills Community College SBDC.
Encompass Award (Terrence Thames, Cocoa Creative)
Terrence Thames with Cocoa Creative is the winner of the 2022 Encompass Award. The Encompass Award recognizes an entrepreneur who has a passion for not only growing their business but bringing others along with them. They incorporate giving back to their community, including others and doing what is right, directly into their business model.
“Terrence Thames is the perfect choice for the Encompass Award because when Terrence succeeds, others succeed,” said Austin Strawhacker, SBDC Iowa Associate State Director. “His passion for his community is infectious. I have had the pleasure of knowing and working with Terrance for almost 10 years, and if you spend more than a few minutes with him, you will immediately see someone who embodies each attribute of the Encompass Award.”