Ashley Louw honored as 2025 North Dakota SBDC State Star
Ashley Louw, business advisor for the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers in Devils Lake, has been awarded the 2025 State Star, the highest recognition for individual achievement within the program’s national network, America’s SBDC.
Each year, the America’s SBDC State Star is presented to individuals who demonstrate exemplary performance, make significant contributions to their state’s network, and show dedication to the success of America’s small businesses. Louw and the other State Stars were honored nationally at the America’s SBDC annual training event which was held in Orlando, Fla., in early September.
“We are very proud to recognize Ashley Louw as North Dakota’s 2025 State Star,” said Tiffany Ford, state director of the North Dakota SBDC. “Ashley’s commitment to her clients is evident in the thoughtful, practical guidance she provides every day. She actively builds strong relationships with partners across the north central region and the state, expanding the reach and sharing the impact of our program. Within our team, Ashley plays a meaningful role in shaping strategy and strengthening collaboration across the network. We are excited to honor her with this recognition and celebrate the difference she makes every day.”
Louw, originally from Portland, N.D., and with the North Central Planning Council, joined the ND SBDC team in December of 2020 and brought in more than 16 years of management and retail experience. She holds an associates degree in Business Administration from the Minnesota School of Business and a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Business Administration from Mayville State University.
“North Central Planning Council is proud to host the ND SBDC for the Devils Lake region and have Ashley Louw as an outstanding part of the team,” said Sandy Shively, NCPC executive director. “Ashley consistently demonstrates professionalism with her clients, engaging each new client with enthusiasm and attentively addressing their individual needs. NCPC leadership and Board of Directors commend Ashley for her well-deserved State Star award.”
About the ND SBDC: The ND SBDC is a statewide outreach program of the Center for Business Engagement & Development within the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration at the University of North Dakota. The network offers confidential, no-cost business advising and training to help small businesses overcome challenges, scale operations, and navigate financial and regulatory landscapes.
ND SBDC services are provided at no cost to clients, thanks to funding from the SBA, the Bank of North Dakota, and local supporters across the state.
For more information on ND SBDC programs or services, call 701.777.3700, email leadcenter@ndsbdc.org, visit https://ndsbdc.org, or connect with us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn).
