IADG and its utility partners honor businesses that, in most cases, are quietly making big impacts on their communities, industries, and the state of Iowa annually. In early December 2023, six companies were recognized with an Iowa Venture Award. They are also recognized in the Iowa Venture Award Hall of Fame, which spotlights the 293 businesses recognized during the past 35 years.

The 2023 Iowa Venture Award Recipients

• “Outstanding Business of the Year” Cold-Link Logistics - Sioux City
  Nominated by Woodbury County REC
• Centro, Incorporated, Hampton
  Nominated by Franklin REC
• HiPer Ceramics, Spirit Lake
  Nominated by Iowa Lakes Electric Cooperative
• Ihle Fabrications, LLC, Polk City
  Nominated by Midland Power Cooperative
• M3 Fabrication, LLC, Bloomfield
  Nominated by Southern Iowa Electric Cooperative
• Post Equipment Company, LLC, Rock Valley
  Nominated by North West REC

Entrepreneurial leadership, capital investment, and job creation are key factors considered by the nominating IADG utility members. Every year, the audience is captivated by the compelling stories of the businesses and people honored. Special guest Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig served as the award presenter. Thank you to the Iowa Association of Electric Cooperatives for allowing IADG to hold this event in conjunction with their Annual Meeting.