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St. Croix Economic Development Corporation Announces 2025 Business of the Year Awards

The St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) has proudly revealed the winners of the prestigious 2025 Business of the Year awards. These awards celebrate local businesses that have demonstrated exceptional growth, made significant contributions to their communities, and positively impacted the local economy. Recognizing such achievements serves as a beacon for aspiring businesses and strengthens our community ties.

Celebrating Community Spirit and Economic Growth

Executive Director of SCEDC, Melissa Meschke, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “Each winner has an amazing story and brings energy and passion to what they do and how they lift our economy.” She emphasized that the high number of nominations showcases the vibrant energy in St. Croix County. “The awards are an important way to share each organization’s success. We are eagerly looking forward to the award dinner where we will celebrate these important achievements,” she added.

The formal recognition of the award winners will take place during the SCEDC Annual Banquet, which is scheduled for Thursday, February 26, 2026, at Ready Randy’s in New Richmond. This much-anticipated evening will bring together influential business leaders, state officials, and community members to honor excellence and impactful service. The banquet is set to commence at 5:00 p.m. and conclude by 8:00 p.m. Attendees can purchase tickets at a cost of $70. For further details or to register for the event, interested parties can reach out to Amanda Connelly via email at [email protected].

Award Winners

Emerging Business of the Year

Rodent Barriers LLC has earned the title of St. Croix EDC’s 2025 Emerging Business of the Year due to its remarkable innovation and rapid regional growth. Founded by seasoned Hudson entrepreneur and inventor Jim Bradac, the company has pioneered the development of patented solutions that protect highway lighting and signal pole infrastructure from two significant nationwide challenges: rodent damage and copper wire theft.

Rodent Barriers LLC has engineered the nation’s first customizable rodent-intrusion barriers for freeway installations. These barriers effectively keep rodents out of signal poles, mitigating damage to internal wiring, an issue that transportation agencies estimate costs millions in repairs annually. Bradac holds an impressive nine patents related to the products manufactured in the St. Croix Valley.

In addition to rodent protection, the company is currently testing an innovative anti-theft model designed to address the prevalent issue of copper wire theft, which poses significant risks and leads to considerable financial losses.

Since launching its first product in April 2024, Rodent Barriers LLC has made remarkable strides. It expanded into its own manufacturing space, doubled its sales in just one year, and broadened its product line to include over 19 models approved for use across multiple states, including Minnesota and Wisconsin, with more states expected to follow.

Bradac expressed his gratitude, stating, “I’m deeply touched to receive this award. It’s a great honor, especially since this is my second Emerging Business of the Year recognition." In 2018, the company also won this accolade for its manufacturing plant, St. Croix Valley Blow Molding.

Small Business of the Year (29 or Fewer Employees)

Homestead Veterinary Clinic has been awarded St. Croix EDC’s 2025 Small Business of the Year for its unwavering commitment to the community and impressive growth. Founded in 2011 by Dr. Danielle Johnson, the clinic evolved from a modest two-person operation to a thriving practice that now includes three doctors and sixteen employees.

The clinic stands out for its innovative programs, such as “Free Vaccines for Life,” and its extraordinary financial performance, which is highlighted by consistent double-digit annual growth. By keeping more dollars local, Homestead strives to provide adaptable, community-focused care. Its charitable involvement is notable; the clinic regularly donates pet food to the Baldwin food shelf and supports numerous local initiatives.

Through emphasizing public health and delivering top-notch veterinary care, Homestead Veterinary Clinic exemplifies the essence of small business excellence in St. Croix County, significantly impacting the well-being of residents and their pets.

Large Business of the Year (30 or More Employees)

Krumm Exteriors, LLC has been recognized as St. Croix EDC’s 2025 Large Business of the Year for nearly three decades of robust growth and community service. Under the stewardship of Penny Austad, Krumm Exteriors has broadened its scope beyond traditional roofing and siding to include advanced offerings like CertainTeed Solstice solar shingles and Versetta Stone.

Employing a team of 39, the company actively invests in training and technology, ensuring high-quality service and operational excellence. Krumm Exteriors’ commitment to community engagement is remarkable, illustrated by its contributions to local nonprofits and support for initiatives such as Habitat for Humanity.

The company’s accolades include recognition on Qualified Remodeler’s Top 500 list and being named Business Rate’s Best Roofer in Wisconsin. Their dedication to both craftsmanship and community exemplifies an ideal business model.

Non-Profit of the Year

Operation HELP has earned the title of St. Croix EDC’s 2025 Non-Profit of the Year due to its transformative support for families facing financial hardships. For 35 years, Operation HELP has provided critical assistance, expanding significantly through its merger with the Hudson Area Backpack and Food Program.

In 2024, the organization inaugurated the Alliance Center, a comprehensive facility dedicated to providing food access, financial assistance, and various essential services. This innovative model enhances service delivery and reaches more communities, ensuring that thousands of residents receive the aid they need.

Through its robust resources and programs, Operation HELP continues to demonstrate exceptional nonprofit excellence, driving financial stability and resilience across St. Croix County.

County Impact Award of the Year

Limitless Cycling, part of River Valley Trails, has been awarded the 2025 County Impact Award for its pioneering efforts in promoting outdoor accessibility. This initiative evolved from a grassroots endeavor for trail connectivity into a critical force enhancing community well-being through adaptive cycling programs.

With a growing fleet of adaptive bicycles and numerous partnerships across various sectors, Limitless Cycling provides inclusive rides to over a thousand residents annually. Their initiatives support the county’s goals around health and mobility, ensuring outdoor recreation is available to all.

President’s Award

The 2025 President’s Award has been conferred upon Tom Borowski, acknowledging his exceptional service and leadership within the St. Croix County business community. With years of invaluable contributions to Health Partners and the SCEDC Board, Borowski’s influence will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact.

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Conclusion

Each of these remarkable winners encapsulates the spirit of innovation, growth, and unwavering dedication to community well-being. The St. Croix EDC is thrilled to honor their hard work and contributions to the region. We eagerly anticipate celebrating their achievements at the upcoming St. Croix EDC Banquet and extending our support to all local businesses and organizations.

About the St. Croix County Economic Development Corporation

The SCEDC is a 501(c)6 organization dedicated to fostering economic development in St. Croix County, Wisconsin. By emphasizing workforce and entrepreneurial development, along with business expansion and collaboration among communities, SCEDC plays a crucial role in enhancing the region’s economic landscape. For further information, please visit stcroixedc.com.

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