MASON CITY — North Iowa’s business community took center stage September 24 as entrepreneurs, established companies, innovators and student business owners were honored during the 2026 Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala at North Iowa Area Community College in Mason City.
The annual event recognized standout businesses and entrepreneurs from across the region in several categories, while also presenting special awards for long-term impact and community leadership.
NorthIowaToday.com previously reported on the slate of finalists selected for this year’s gala:
https://northiowatoday.com/2026/08/25/north-iowa-business-standouts-named-finalists-for-2026-pappajohn-entrepreneur-gala/
Dean Snyder Construction receives Legacy Award
Dean Snyder Construction, Inc. of Clear Lake received the 2026 Legacy Award.
The award recognizes a business that has made significant contributions to North Iowa through vision, passion and leadership.
Matt Curtis honored with Entrepreneur of Purpose Award
Matt Curtis of Wayne’s Ski & Cycle in Mason City received the Entrepreneur of Purpose Award.
The honor recognizes an entrepreneur whose work is driven by a strong sense of mission and a commitment to making a positive impact on the community.
The award also highlights leadership, vision, mentoring of other entrepreneurs and service to the community.
Huber Supply Co. wins Outstanding Business Award
Huber Supply Co. was named the winner of the Outstanding Business Award.
The award recognizes overall achievement in business vision, growth and community impact, along with sustained success and contributions to the regional economy.
Other finalists were IMT of Garner and Mike Molstead Motors, Inc. of Charles City.
Dean Sonquist named Distinguished Entrepreneur
Dean Sonquist of Plas-Tech Tooling, Inc. received the Distinguished Entrepreneur Award.
The award honors a North Iowa entrepreneur who has demonstrated business success, perseverance, leadership and a positive impact on the regional economy and community.
Other finalists were Alisha Johnson of A. Johnson Trucking in Northwood and Jeff and Lori Otto of Otto’s Oasis in Charles City.
Lance Studer wins Young Entrepreneur Award
Lance Studer of Lance Studer Custom Automotive received the Young Entrepreneur Award.
The honor recognizes a North Iowa entrepreneur under the age of 40 who has demonstrated business success, growth, community involvement and leadership.
Other finalists were Megumi Abbott of Churasan in Charles City and Dr. Holly Neuberger of Lake Animal Clinic in Clear Lake.
Beach Buddies & Sensory Cove take Innovation Award
Bridget Herrick and Sherri Stensrude of Beach Buddies & Sensory Cove received the Innovation Award.
The award honors entrepreneurs who lead their industries through new technology, products, systems or services and who develop creative solutions to everyday problems.
Other finalists were Lake Pin & Play of Clear Lake, represented by Tyler Kerr, Debbie Kerr, Nick Plagge and Debbie Plagge, and L&J Industries of Charles City, represented by Chris Garden, Lisa Garden, Brady Garden and Jacie Peichel.
Kylie’s Lemonade wins Student Entrepreneur Award
Kylie Johnson of Kylie’s Lemonade received the Student Entrepreneur Award.
The award recognizes a student business owner who exemplifies entrepreneurial spirit.
Jordan Klooster of Klooster Flaps in Garner was also a finalist.
Gala highlights North Iowa business growth
The 2026 Pappajohn Entrepreneur Gala brought together businesses and entrepreneurs from across North Iowa and highlighted a mix of long-established companies, younger business owners, innovators and students.
The event is organized through the NIACC John Pappajohn Entrepreneurial Center and is supported by community partners and sponsors.
NorthIowaToday.com also covered the winners of the 2024 NIACC Pappajohn Center Entrepreneur Gala:
https://northiowatoday.com/2024/10/08/winners-announced-at-2024-niacc-pappajohn-center-entrepreneur-gala/
(PHOTOS via NIACC.)