Emerging Prairie is excited to announce the recipients of their annual awards! Each year, Emerging Prairie and a selection committee identify individuals and organizations that made a significant impact in the startup community and contributed to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem over the past year. This year’s award recipients are:
Rookie of the Year Award—Sadiyo Hassan
This award is given to an early stage entrepreneur that has made significant progress.
While in high school, Sadiyo was part of a winning Startup Weekend team and also co-founded a tech company, Rising Tide Software. After graduating from high school, Sadiyo chose to stay in Fargo and attend NDSU. In 2018, she gave a great talk at TEDxFargo about how to solve the nationwide emergency response crisis. Her poise, positive example and desire to make an impact are a true inspiration.
Dr. David Wells Belief Award—Roger Larson
This award is given to an individual that believes in the potential of entrepreneurs and the difference they can make in our community.
Roger is committed to entrepreneurs. He’s a loyal volunteer at Emerging Prairie events, including being the cheerful greeter at 1 Million Cups Fargo. Roger also mentors with SCORE and is a dedicated champion of others. He lives the spirit of Dr. Wells – engaging and encouraging young people and those young at heart to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams.
Social Impact Award—F5 Project
This award is given to an individual or organization that has demonstrated the ability to positively impact the community for social change.
F5 has proven to be a thought leader in social impact, scaling their work around the region and being an active voice in key policy discussions. Their services have transformed lives and increased the workforce for our area.
Team Player Award—Kilbourne Group
This award is given to an organization whose teammates contribute in meaningful ways to support the startup community.
The Kilbourne Group’s support for and collaboration with local organizations, entrepreneurs and creatives runs deep. Their team members are active in the community and are tremendous advocates for raising the profile of our community.
Startup of the Year Award—Aldevron
This award is given to an organization that is demonstrating significant growth and success beyond our region.
Aldevron’s pioneering spirit has led to expansion that spans the world. Their work makes significant contributions to research, research that enables discoveries that help improve the human condition.
The award winners will be celebrated during 1 Million Thanks, a community event that takes place on Thursday, January 31st, 2019 at the Fargo Air Museum. Come and raise a glass to these individuals and organizations for their contributions to our community. We’d love to have the community join us at the event which features hors d’oeuvres, live music, a surprise performance, the awards ceremony, and a signature champagne toast. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit 1millionthanks2019.eventbrite.com.
