Honoring Community Leaders with 2026 Impact Awards
Posted: Mar 23 2026
The Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) recognized four outstanding contributors to the community during its 2026 Annual Meeting on Monday evening, presenting the fourth annual Impact Awards for Military Support, Small Business, Leadership, and Community Impact. The awards highlight individuals, businesses, and organizations making a meaningful difference across the Minot area.
The Impact Award for Outstanding Military Support was presented to QDOBA and Jersey Mike’s for their extraordinary support of Minot Air Force Base Airmen when they donated 100 percent of their earnings for a single day in December to support Operation Homebound.
“Minot has always stepped up to support our military, and this was an incredible example of that commitment in action,” said MACEDC President | CEO Brekka Kramer. “By donating an entire day’s proceeds, QDOBA and Jersey Mike’s helped raise more than $31,000 to bring Airmen home for the holidays – an impact that meant so much to the members of Team Minot.”
The Impact Award for Outstanding Small Business was awarded to Val’s Cyclery, a longtime downtown staple that has served the Minot community for more than 60 years.
“For three generations, Val’s Cyclery has helped people explore, stay active, and connect with one another,” said 2026 MACEDC Board Chair Jarid Lundeen. “They do more than sell bicycles – they bring people together by hosting weekly rides when North Dakota weather allows it and make lifelong connections. Minot wouldn’t be the same without this business.”
The Impact Award for Outstanding Leadership was presented to Jessica Ackerman of Local Motives for her vision and leadership in bringing Citizens Alley to life in downtown Minot.
“This project is a powerful example of what can happen when vision meets persistence and collaboration,” said Kramer. “Citizens Alley has quickly become a vibrant community space that brings people together year-round, and Jessica’s leadership made that vision a reality.”
The Impact Award for Outstanding Community Impact was awarded to the Union Silos Public Art Project, a transformational effort that has created a landmark in the heart of Minot.
“This project quite literally changed the skyline of our community,” said Lundeen. “The Union Silos mural is something thousands of people see every day. It’s something we can all feel proud of, and a reminder of what’s possible when a community comes together around a shared vision.”
MACEDC leaders emphasized that the awards are a reminder of what makes Minot special.
“Minot is home to so many impactful people who work hard and dream big,” Lundeen said. “With these four awards, we shine a spotlight on these people and the businesses and organizations they dedicate themselves to, day in and day out.”
MACEDC congratulates each of the 2026 Impact Award recipients and thanks the many community members
who submitted nominations to recognize the individuals and organizations making a difference.
The Impact Award for Outstanding Military Support was presented to QDOBA and Jersey Mike’s.
The Impact Award for Outstanding Small Business was presented to Val’s Cyclery.
The Impact Award for Outstanding Leadership was presented to Jessica Ackerman of Local Motives.
The Impact Award for Outstanding Community Impact was presented to Union Silos Public Art Project.
