At the September 25 Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan event, dozens of local innovators, nonprofits, and business leaders were honored for their creativity, community impact, and leadership.
The Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan Awards, hosted by the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC, recognizes outstanding contributions across categories like Small Business, Large Business, Unsung Hero, Women-Owned Business, and newly introduced Community Bridge.
Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC
This year’s nominees and winners reflect a growing emphasis on connection, innovation, and equity in our region.
To Bismarck readers, this isn’t just a ceremony—it’s a showcase of your neighbors turning ideas into impact. From small cafés expanding opportunities, to nonprofits bridging gaps in services, the winners mirror the values and ambitions of our community.
And the new Community Bridge Award, spotlighting nonprofits that link people and resources, signals a shift toward recognizing service and collaboration beyond traditional business metrics.
“You don’t always see the heroes behind the scenes. To be named Unsung Hero is humbling,” said Jessie Hilfer (recipient) among several nominees in that category.
“Our mission has always been to connect people to opportunity. Being named the first Community Bridge Award winner means we’re on the right track,” said a representative from Dream Center Bismarck
The 2025 Celebrate Bismarck-Mandan Awards weren’t just a night of trophies—they were a reflection of where our community is headed: toward stronger collaboration, inclusive growth, and a recognition that innovation is more than profit metrics. As next year’s nominees prepare, these stories remind us that remarkable change often starts at home—with neighbors, nonprofits, and small teams doing big work.
