National Small Business Week 2024: Two clients shine bright, secure national awards
GRAND FORKS, N.D. – National Small Business Week is April 28 through May 4, 2024. During this week, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and Resource Partner Programs shine a spotlight on our nation’s small businesses. Through community events across the country, we recognize the hard work, ingenuity, and dedication of America’s small businesses, and celebrate their contributions to the economy.
In addition to a range of in-person and virtual events, SBA takes the opportunity to highlight the impact of outstanding entrepreneurs, small business owners, and community members from all 50 states and U.S. Territories. The Center for Business Engagement & Development at the University of North Dakota hosts two of SBA’s Resource Partner Programs and is proud to share that two of the national SBA winners for 2024 are clients of their programs.
Cherie Harms, president and CEO of Leonardite Products, has been named SBA’s North Dakota Small Business Person of the Year, and Monika and Peter Johncour, owners of Timber Ridge Campground, have been named South Dakota Veterans Small Business of the Year. Leonardite Products is a client of the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers (ND SBDC) and Timber Ridge Campground is a client of the Veterans Business Outreach Center (VBOC of the Dakotas). Both national programs operate under the Center for Business Engagement & Development, UND’s business outreach hub.
“In celebrating National Small Business Week, we are immensely proud to see the outstanding achievements of our clients recognized on a national scale,” said Tiffany Ford, Center for Business Engagement & Development director. “Their dedication, innovation, and resilience exemplify the spirit of entrepreneurship that drives our economy forward. We are honored to have supported them on their journeys. Congratulations to Cherie, Monika, Peter, and all small business owners across the nation who inspire us with their passion and commitment.”
Leonardite Products—a company specializing in high-quality leonardite products for agriculture and industrial use, based in Williston, N.D., has worked with the ND SBDC since 2008. Upon receiving the award, Harms expressed, “I’m honored to receive this award from the SBA, yet admit Leonardite Products had support all along the way. I encourage all entrepreneurs to establish a relationship with their local SBDC advisor, who can be a trusted advisor and introduce beneficial programs.”
The ND SBDC is particularly proud of this achievement, as Cherie Harms is not only a valued client but also an integral member of our State Advisory Board. Harms overcame obstacles with the support of her advisor and the ND SBDC, she utilized SBA loans to achieve success in expanding Leonardite Products’ mining and processing operations. Her success stands as an inspiration to entrepreneurs across the state.
Monika and Peter Johncour, owners of Timber Ridge Campground, have worked with VBOC of the Dakotas for several years. It began with participating in a Boots to Business training at Ellsworth Air Force Base and continued with one-on-one advising. Their journey represents the spirit of entrepreneurship and dedication.
Upon learning of the award, Monika said, “We’re thrilled. We are so incredibly grateful to receive this award. We never imagined that in 2.5 years that this was even a possibility.”
Timber Ridge Campground, under the guidance of VBOC and the South Dakota Center for Enterprise Opportunity (SD CEO) West, has flourished into a cherished destination. Their success story represents the impact of VBOC’s support in turning entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
About the Center for Business Engagement and Development
The Center for Business Engagement & Development is UND’s business outreach hub. Hosting three separate national business assistance and resource programs, the network provides these services to individuals and businesses throughout the state – at no cost.
While each of the three programs has its own unique mission and set of services, they routinely work together to help businesses start and thrive. Being located within the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration provides opportunities for collaboration and student engagement on real business development, highlighting the skills, offerings, and talents within the college.
Whether looking to start a business based on the hint of an idea, grow your established business, or plan ahead for business succession, these programs can help.
About the ND SBDC
The North Dakota Small Business Development Centers are the catalyst for business development and growth. The ND SBDC team of credentialed advisors serves small business owners and entrepreneurs across the state, providing expertise, insights, and connecting and leveraging resources to ensure client success, resulting in economic impacts that strengthen local communities. Since its inception in 1986, services have been provided at no-cost, thanks to funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration. Currently match funding is provided by the Bank of North Dakota and local supporters across the state.
For more information on the ND SBDC programs or services, call 701.777.3700, email leadcenter@ndsbdc.org, visit our website, ndsbdc.org or find on social media (Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram).
About VBOC of the Dakotas
The VBOC program offers entrepreneurial development services to eligible veterans, active-duty service members, and military spouses, assisting them in starting, growing, and succeeding in their businesses.
For more information about VBOC of the Dakotas and the services offered to veterans, call 701.738.4850, email Dakotas.VBOC@UND.edu, visit our website, UND.edu/dakotasvboc, or find us on social media (Facebook, X, and LinkedIn)
