MONROE — With record-breaking attendance of nearly 300 people, the Green County Development Corporation (GCDC) held its Annual Dinner & Awards Night on Thursday, March 19 at Turner Hall in Monroe. The evening brought together community members, business leaders, and partners to celebrate the individuals and organizations driving growth and opportunity across Green County.
GCDC Executive Director Olivia Otte welcomed attendees, highlighted the year’s accomplishments, and recognized nominees across three award categories. In 2025, Green County saw $133 million in private sector investment, reflecting strong momentum and continued confidence in the local economy.
GCDC also reported a year of strong organizational impact, securing $1.4 million in grant funding, deploying $1.2 million in loans, and hosting 14 events with nearly 1,000 attendees. For every $1 invested in GCDC operations, $16 is returned to the community, demonstrating the organization’s strong return on investment and value to Green County.
The evening also featured a three-person panel discussion focused on why people choose to live and work in Green County. Panelists included Nic Owen, Green County’s new County Administrator, Dr. Stephanie Schmidt, Plant Chemist at Badger State Ethanol, and Madeline Kuhn, Cheesemaker at Emmi Roth. Each shared their personal story and perspective, reinforcing a central theme of the night: economic development is ultimately about people and the choices they make to invest in a community.
“Green County’s success comes down to people who choose to be here and invest in this community,” said Otte. “When you look at the businesses growing, the leaders stepping up, and the partnerships forming, it’s clear that we have something special here. Our job is to keep building on that momentum and creating opportunities for the next generation.”
Awards presentations followed for Entrepreneurial Spirit, Outstanding Business of the Year, and the Richard B. Schmied Leadership Award.
The Outstanding Business of the Year award, recognizing a business that has demonstrated a strong commitment to economic growth through innovation, investment, and community support, was presented to Klitzman Seed. The Brooklyn-based, family-owned business was recognized for its long-standing dedication to supporting the agricultural community and contributing to the strength of Green County’s economy.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit Award, honoring a business that exemplifies innovation, resilience, and a drive for growth, was presented to Joanne’s Dress Shop. Under new ownership by Lisa Buol, the long-standing Monroe business continues its legacy while embracing new opportunities, demonstrating both respect for tradition and a forward-looking approach.
The Richard B. Schmied Leadership Award, which recognizes selfless leadership, community commitment, and lasting impact, was presented to Nikki Austin. Austin was recognized for her steady and impactful leadership across multiple organizations, consistently giving her time and expertise to strengthen Green County.
In addition to the award recipients, GCDC recognized Klondike Cheese Company and Colony Brands for 100 years of business and their lasting contributions to Green County’s economy. Mayor Donna Douglas was also recognized for her lifetime achievement in economic development and her decades of leadership and service to the community.
GCDC is proud to recognize this year’s award recipients and all nominees, whose commitment and leadership continue to move Green County forward.
The mission of GCDC is to promote and encourage economic growth while maintaining the quality of life that makes Green County, Wisconsin a great place to live and work. Through strong public-private partnerships, GCDC continues to support businesses, expand opportunities, and build a vibrant future for the community. For more information, visit www.greencountydevelopment.com or follow GCDC on Facebook and LinkedIn.
