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St. Croix Economic Development Corporation Honors 2025 Business Award Winners

The St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) has officially announced the winners of the prestigious 2025 Business of the Year awards. These accolades celebrate the remarkable achievements of businesses that have demonstrated exceptional growth, made substantial contributions to their communities, and positively impacted the local economy.

Celebrating Community Impact and Achievement

Melissa Meschke, Executive Director of SCEDC, expressed her enthusiasm about the award winners, stating, “Each winner has an amazing story and brings energy and passion to what they do and how they lift our economy.” The significant number of nominations received this year underscores a shared enthusiasm and energy that persistently thrives throughout St. Croix County. Meschke emphasized the importance of these awards in highlighting each organization’s success and looked forward to the upcoming banquet where their achievements would be celebrated.

Upcoming Award Ceremony Details

The winners will be honored at the St. Croix EDC Annual Banquet, set for Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Ready Randy’s in New Richmond. This gala event aims to gather business leaders, state officials, and community members in a grand celebration of excellence and positive influence. The banquet will take place from 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM, and tickets are priced at $70. For further details or to register, please reach out to Amanda Connelly at [email protected].

Meet this Year’s Award Winners

Emerging Business of the Year

Rodent Barriers LLC has earned the title of 2025 Emerging Business of the Year, celebrated for its groundbreaking innovation, rapid growth trajectory, and expanding regional influence. Founded in 2023 by seasoned entrepreneur and inventor Jim Bradac, the company has pioneered patented solutions that safeguard highway lighting and signal pole infrastructure from two significant issues plaguing the nation: rodent damage and theft of copper wiring.

This innovative business has introduced the first customizable rodent-intrusion barriers for freeway appurtenances, effectively preventing rodent infiltration and protecting internal wiring. Transportation agencies have documented that such damage incurs millions of dollars in repair costs annually, marking Rodent Barriers LLC as crucial to mitigating these challenges.

In addition to their rodent protection solutions, the company has developed an anti-theft prototype currently under testing, designed to thwart copper wire theft, which poses severe infrastructural and safety concerns nationwide.

Since launching its first product model in April 2024, Rodent Barriers LLC has doubled its sales volume, secured its own manufacturing site, and expanded its line to over 19 models approved for diverse states, including Minnesota, Wisconsin, North Dakota, South Dakota, Ohio, and Michigan, with more to follow. Their commitment to advancing infrastructure protection continues with their wire theft-deterrent technology, presently under evaluation by the Department of Transportation (DOT).

“I’m deeply touched to receive this award and proud that this is my second Emerging Business of the Year recognition,” expressed Bradac. “In 2018, we also received this honor for our manufacturing plant, St. Croix Valley Blow Molding, which remains operational today. Being recognized once again for innovation in manufacturing in our region means a lot to me.”

Small Business of the Year (29 or Fewer Employees)

Homestead Veterinary Clinic has been distinguished as the 2025 Small Business of the Year for its sustainable growth, exceptional service, and profound dedication to the Baldwin community. Established in 2011 when Dr. Danielle Johnson acquired and revitalized a struggling practice, Homestead has expanded from a two-person operation into a bustling clinic with three doctors and sixteen employees.

Renowned for its forward-thinking initiatives like the "Free Vaccines for Life" program, Homestead maintains consistent double-digit annual growth and a commitment to remaining independently owned. This ensures that a more significant portion of its earnings remains within the local economy while delivering adaptable, community-oriented veterinary care.

The clinic has also garnered recognition for its charitable endeavors, including weekly donations of pet food to the Baldwin food shelf and support for Helping Hands for Pets. Dr. Johnson’s longstanding leadership in regional health boards further emphasizes the establishment’s community orientation.

By prioritizing public health initiatives, investing in its personnel, and delivering compassionate, high-quality veterinary services, Homestead Veterinary Clinic epitomizes small business excellence and continues to play a vital role in the well-being of animals and residents alike within St. Croix County.

Large Business of the Year (30 or More Employees)

Krumm Exteriors, LLC has been honored as the 2025 Large Business of the Year, recognizing nearly three decades of consistent growth, industry leadership, and unwavering community service. Under the stewardship of Penny Austad, the company has broadened its scope beyond roofing and siding, now offering advanced exterior solutions, including CertainTeed Solstice solar shingles and Versetta Stone. They have also expanded operations by opening a Menomonie branch to adequately serve western Wisconsin.

With a workforce of 39 employees, Krumm Exteriors continues to invest in training, certifications, and technology—enhancing customer experiences and promoting long-term operational excellence. Their ongoing financial growth reflects disciplined strategic planning and strong customer relationships, along with their commitment to maintaining high-quality craftsmanship.

Krumm Exteriors stands out for its active community engagement, which includes award-winning contributions to the Freedom Park Center, support for Habitat for Humanity, and involvement in local events and nonprofits.

Recognized on Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 list and awarded Business Rate’s Best Roofer in Wisconsin, Krumm Exteriors showcases how skilled expertise merges with genuine commitment to serving homeowners, team members, and the broader community.

Non-Profit of the Year

The title of Non-Profit of the Year goes to Operation HELP, celebrated for its transformative influence on families across St. Croix County and its innovative model for enhancing regional nonprofit infrastructure. For over 35 years, Operation HELP has provided essential aid to residents facing financial difficulties.

Recently, the organization has expanded its reach through a merger with the Hudson Area Backpack and Food Program and the establishment of the county’s first comprehensive nonprofit hub. In 2024, it unveiled the Alliance Center, a newly renovated 20,000-square-foot space that consolidates food access, emergency financial assistance, basic need items, and referrals, bringing multiple partner nonprofits together under one roof.

This collaborative framework has increased operational efficiency, dismantled barriers for families, and broadened service availability to communities throughout the county and beyond. With a modern Fresh Harvest Pantry and various other support programs, Operation HELP now assists thousands of residents annually. Their $4.3 million capital campaign and commitment to a sustainable financial structure illustrated their strong stewardship and visionary aspirations.

Guided by the principles of dignity, compassion, and partnership, Operation HELP exemplifies nonprofit excellence and significantly contributes to strengthening families and economic stability, thereby cultivating a more resilient St. Croix County.

County Impact Award of the Year

Limitless Cycling, a branch of River Valley Trails, has been declared the 2025 County Impact Award recipient, recognizing its inspirational leadership in broadening accessible outdoor recreation and enhancing community well-being. This initiative originally began as a grassroots effort focused on improving trail connectivity and has profoundly evolved, particularly through its signature program—Limitless Cycling, which provides adaptive bicycles and Trackchairs® to residents who can no longer access outdoor spaces independently.

With its rapidly growing fleet, a plethora of trained volunteers, and partnerships with senior living communities, healthcare providers, conservation groups, and county agencies, River Valley Trails now facilitates over a thousand inclusive rides annually across the St. Croix River Valley. Their initiatives directly support county objectives surrounding health, aging, mobility, and overall quality of life by ensuring that residents of all skill levels can enjoy parks, trails, and community areas.

Additionally, as St. Croix County’s representative on the Wisconsin Bike Fed Advisory Committee, the organization holds a crucial role in advocating for accessible recreation at a statewide level.

Through its innovative strategies, collaborative spirit, and unwavering belief in equitable access to the outdoors, River Valley Trails has emerged as a model for inclusive infrastructure, significantly connecting the community throughout St. Croix County.

President’s Award

The SCEDC is pleased to announce that Tom Borowski has been awarded the 2025 President’s Award for his remarkable leadership, dedicated service, and long-standing commitment to the St. Croix County business community. Tom has been a member of Health Partners since 2017 and served on the SCEDC Board from 2018 to 2024, providing invaluable insights and steadfast guidance throughout his service.

As he approaches retirement at the end of 2025, the EDC feels honored to recognize the meaningful impact he has made on both the Hudson community and the organization as a whole. Tom’s commitment to service, partnership, and advocacy has immeasurably strengthened the area, ensuring that his legacy will continue to benefit St. Croix County for years to come.

Each of these recognized enterprises captures the spirit of innovation, growth, and commitment to the community. We are excited to honor their diligent efforts and significant contributions during the upcoming St. Croix EDC Banquet.

How AI legalese decoder Fits Into the Picture

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Given the diverse nature of the award-winning businesses this year—from Rodent Barriers LLC to Homestead Veterinary Clinic, understanding intricate legal documents is crucial for their growth. The AI legalese decoder can help these businesses ensure compliance, make informed decisions, and streamline their operational processes. By breaking down complex legal terminologies into easily understandable language, businesses can focus on what truly matters: their growth, community impact, and success.

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About the St. Croix County Economic Development Corporation

The SCEDC is a 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to fostering economic growth throughout St. Croix County, Wisconsin. Their initiatives cover a wide array of areas, including workforce development, housing, entrepreneurial advancement, business retention and expansion, and community collaboration. SCEDC is committed to building strong partnerships among the 35 cities, towns, and villages within St. Croix County and collaborates closely with neighboring Pierce and Polk Counties to enhance the entire St. Croix Valley region.

To discover more about their initiatives and community impact, please visit stcroixedc.com.

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