Progress Lakeshore announces its Excellence in Economic Development Award winners

June 2, 2025

MANITOWOC – Progress Lakeshore recognized the people, projects and partnerships driving growth in Manitowoc County at its 14th Annual Excellence in Economic Development Awards Breakfast last month.

At the event, Progress Lakeshore presented awards to those who made a strong impact over the past year through job creation, innovation and community support. 

Manitowoc Public Utilities received the Corporate Investment Award for its innovative conversion of two power plant boilers from fossil fuels to 100% Wisconsin-recognized renewable fuel pellets

This low-capital project extends the life of a vital community asset, preserves more than 30 skilled jobs, maintains a $2 million annual PILOT payment to the city and strengthens grid resiliency. 

The honorable mention in this category was presented to Braun Building Center. 

The Entrepreneurial Achievement Award – which honors individuals or emerging small businesses that have successfully transformed their ideas, products or services into viable and competitive ventures while positively impacting their community – was presented to The Nook.

As the area’s first mocktail lounge, which also operates as a coffee shop and bookstore, The Nook offers an alcohol-free environment that promotes connection and creativity. 

The honorable mentions in this category were awarded to Little Sips Play Cafe and Real Aesthetics & Wellness. 

The Neighborhood Development Award – which recognizes innovative real estate development or re-use projects purposely built – was awarded to Lakeshore College for its significant investment in healthcare education and workforce development.

In August 2024, the college opened a new 37,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art facility that doubled its capacity to train up to 1,500 students annually in high-demand fields, such as nursing, emergency medical services (EMS) and radiography. 

The honorable mention in this category was awarded to Yard 65 Brewery and Events. 

The Community Enhancement Award – which honors those who create projects and initiatives to make the county a more attractive place to live and work – was presented to Ascend Services, Inc.

Ascend earned this award for its dedication to empowering individuals with disabilities and strengthening the Manitowoc County community. 

The honorable mentions in this category were awarded to The Haven of Manitowoc County and PetSkull Brewing Company. 

The Economic Accelerator of the Year Award – which recognizes an individual or organization that has played a key leadership role in economic development, workforce development, entrepreneurship, community collaboration and/or business retention and expansion – was presented to Adam Tegen.

Tegen was honored for his visionary leadership and transformative impact on the county’s economic growth as the community development director for the City of Manitowoc.

The honorable mention in this category was presented to the Small Business Development Center at UW-Green Bay.