IDEA Competition winners will be announced at the IDEA Awards Banquet to be held April 25, from 5:00-8:30 p.m.at the Sanford Event Center in Bemidji.
2012 finalists are:
· Don & Sandra Buerkley, Park Rapids, MN America Log Maker – Renewable energy solution that recycles animal waste into a useable and economical heat source for horse facilities.
· Jay Fisher & James Marvin, Warroad, MN Eleven Hockey – Hockey stick manufacturer in Warroad that offers custom, unique, and historical hockey stick products.
· Mark Landes & Jennifer DeBarr, Bemidji, MN Shield Snip – Innovative hand tool to simplify the process of trimming STP and coaxial shield quickly and precisely.
· William & Julia Stephani, Puposky, MN Slot Rail Fence – Revolutionary way to construct a stronger and more-appealing wooden rail fence that is easier for DIYs to build than what is currently offered in the market.
· Brady & Jodi Dyrdahl, Shevlin, MN The Sidekick – Snowmobile work stand that stabilizes the sled, making it easier to perform repairs and enhancements underneath the snowmobile.
· Jeff Sullivan, Bemidji, MN Varimax Evaporator - Precision evaporative technology for environmentally responsible and cost effective disposal of surplus industrial and agricultural waste water.
· Tim & Adam Wagner Fisher, MN Wagner Malting & Brewing - Top quality micro brewed beer using 100% locally grown and malted ingredients to deliver exceptional taste.
Final awards will be determined by a judging panel comprised of members from three area equity funds, bankers, successful entrepreneurs and business development professionals. The panel will choose up to five winners who will each receive $10,000 to advance their business idea, plus additional technical assistance.
The 2012 IDEA Hall of Fame is inducting William S. “Bill” Marvin posthumously. The award will be accepted at the banquet by Jake Marvin, president and CEO of The Marvin Cedar and Lumber Company, on behalf of his late father. The IDEA Hall of Fame was instituted to recognize the accomplishments of northwest Minnesota’s legacy innovators and entrepreneurs – those within the region who have inspired others with their entrepreneurial vision, leadership and achievement.
Pre-registration is required for the banquet. For more information on the IDEA Competition Awards Banquet or to register, go to www.ideacompetition.org.
