SEDCOR 2024 Award Winners Announced!
On September 18, 2024, SEDCOR hosted its annual Membership Meeting & Awards at the Salem Convention Center to celebrate and recognize outstanding projects and businesses making a significant impact in Marion, Polk, and Yamhill counties. The afternoon began with a warm welcome as members and guests gathered to honor the hard work and innovation within our region. After an engaging "Year in Review" presentation, the spotlight turned to this year’s award winners, who have gone above and beyond in shaping our community.
2024 Award Winners
1. Agri-Business of the Year: Ruddenklau Farms
Ruddenklau Farms was recognized for its outstanding dedication to agriculture in the region. Their collaboration with Yamasa USA for the production of hard red wheat and support for agtech startups through the AgLaunch365 business accelerator has set a high standard. Helle Ruddenklau, a prominent figure in the farm's operations, is also a champion for Oregon’s agricultural community, making an impact through her involvement with organizations such as Oregon Women for Ag and OSU Extension.
2. Business Partner of the Year: Elise Yarnell Hollamon, City of Newberg, Community Wellness Collective, Providence Health & Rallied Force
Elise Yarnell Hollamon, City of Newberg City Councilor, small business owner, and community leader, has made a significant impact in her community. In addition to her work as a City Councilor and community leader, she also runs a local business, further contributing to the vitality of Newberg’s economy. She’s been an outstanding partner for SEDCOR initiatives like Project Oasis and the Barbara Roberts CTE Center, exemplifying her role as a dedicated community advocate and change maker.
3. Community Leadership Award: Marin Arreola III, Advanced Economic Solutions Inc.
Marin has played a pivotal role in launching the Latino Microenterprise Development Program, helping aspiring entrepreneurs achieve their business dreams. His extensive experience and passion for community service make him an invaluable asset to SEDCOR’s mission.
4. Community Service Award: Juli Foscoli, South Town Glass
Juli Foscoli’s commitment to SEDCOR’s Construction Alliance and her efforts to promote women and young people in the trades have made a lasting impact. South Town Glass, under her leadership, continues to exemplify the highest standards of community service and support.
5. Entrepreneur of the Year: Revino
Revino’s innovative approach to sustainability in the wine industry has revolutionized packaging. Their refillable bottles, which can be used up to 50 times, are setting a new standard for environmental responsibility. Since launching, Revino has partnered with over 60 Oregon wineries, sold more than 315,000 bottles, and was a standout at this year’s Pitch Willamette event, securing $20,000 from investors.
6. Innovative Product of the Year: Canopii Inc.
Canopii has introduced a fully automated robotic nursery that is transforming the production of leafy greens and herbs. Their revolutionary prototype, located at GK Machine, operates without human contact from seeding to harvest, making Canopii a leader in agtech innovation.
7. Outstanding Public/Private Partnership: Fly Salem Initiative
The Fly Salem Initiative successfully reintroduced passenger airline service to the Mid-Willamette Valley in October 2023. With flights to Hollywood-Burbank and Las Vegas and plans to expand to new destinations, this public-private partnership is helping connect the Valley like never before.
8. Small Business of the Year: The Blue Raeven Pie Company
Blue Raeven has been a beloved fixture in our region, known for its farm-fresh pies and strong community support. The company’s recent expansion to a larger facility in McMinnville highlights its continued growth and commitment to the local economy.
9. Manufacturer of the Year: The Ulven Companies
With a legacy of excellence dating back to 1971, The Ulven Companies have been a pioneer in turnkey manufacturing and engineering solutions. Their products, found in satellites orbiting the Earth, exemplify innovation and craftsmanship. The company’s commitment to technical excellence and community engagement makes them a standout in our region.
Closing Thoughts
The SEDCOR Annual Membership Meeting & Awards Luncheon is more than just a ceremony; it’s a celebration of the spirit of innovation, partnership, and resilience that defines our business community. We are proud to honor these leaders and look forward to another year of progress and collaboration.
Thank you to all who attended and supported this year’s event. Let’s continue working together to strengthen our region’s economic vitality and build a prosperous future for the Mid-Willamette Valley.
For more details on the award winners and SEDCOR’s initiatives, stay tuned to our website and follow us on social media.