Nominations sought for Entrepreneur of the Year awards

Nominations are open for the second annual Entrepreneur of the Year Awards sponsored by the Northeast Oregon Economic Development District.

The award is sponsored by the Northeast Oregon Economic Development District and coincides with the celebration of National Entrepreneurship Week.

Nominations are due by Feb. 13.

“Entrepreneurs add value and vitality to our communities with no guarantee of emotional or monetary payoff,” Dawson said. “We want to give citizens the opportunity to show their appreciation to entrepreneurs.”

Past winners include Greg Barreto of Barreto Manufacturing in La Grande, and Kathy Shoemaker of The Cougars’ Den in Wallowa.

Barreto was recognized for his vision and dedication. Through the creation of a successful business, Barreto has added wealth to the community, Dawson said.

Similarly, Shoemaker was recognized for her ability to experiment and adapt her pizza crust recipe to meet the demands of the local market and for creating an important gathering space in her community.

The Entrepreneur of the Year should demonstrate entrepreneurial characteristics including owning a business no older than two years or expanding an existing business, providing new products or services or providing products and services in a way they haven’t been offered previously, and growing a business with new market locations or distribution channels.

To nominate an entrepreneur contact Julie Mullen at 541-426-3598 or email juliemullen@ neoedd.org. 

The winners will be recognized at the February PubTalk business networking events. networking event, taking place in La Grande from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 24 at Foley Station and in Enterprise from 6 to 9 p.m. Feb. 25 Terminal Gravity.

Both events are free and open to the public. Light appetizers will be served and there will be a no host bar.

For more information, call Mullen 426-3598 or 800-645-9454.