Photos By Kene Photography. RAPID CITY, S.D. — Nearly 400 business and community leaders gathered at The Monument on June 9 as Elevate Rapid City recognized outstanding organizations and individuals during its fifth annual business awards celebration. The evening featured 10 awards honoring businesses, nonprofits and community leaders who have made significant contributions to Rapid City and the Black Hills region. The prestigious George Award, first established by the Chamber of Commerce in 1981, was presented to Marnie Herrmann. Named after George Weedman, the award recognizes individuals who have dedicated their lives to creating positive change in the Rapid City community through leadership, service and civic engagement. Elevate Rapid City also presented the Granite Award to Monument Health. The award recognizes a longstanding business that serves as a pillar of the community and contributes significantly to the region’s economic well-being. Additional 2026 award recipients included: Small Business of the Year: Generation Plumbing Large Business of the Year: Nerdy Nuts Nonprofit of the Year: West River Mental Health Young Professionals Best Place to Work: RESPEC Emerging Business of the Year: Nanna’s Café and Bread Company Beautification Award: Aspen Federal Credit Union Business Expansion of the Year: Innovative Materials and Processes Culture of Excellence: Black Hills Works “Rapid City would not be the community it is today without the people, businesses and leaders coming together to make things happen,” Elevate Rapid City CEO Todd Kenner said in a statement. “This event is our opportunity to take a moment and celebrate those who go above and beyond to create opportunities for generations to come.” The event was sponsored by SDN Communications, Black Hills Energy, RESPEC, Ketel Thorstenson LLP, Black Hills Federal Credit Union and the Mount Rushmore Society. Nominations for the 2027 business awards will open in February, with next year’s celebration scheduled for June 8, 2027. Innovative Materials and Processes Monument Health RESPEC Generation Plumbing West River Mental Health Nerdy Nuts Black Hills Works Aspen Federal Credit Union Nanna’s Café and Bread Company Marnie Herrmann
Elevate Honors Rapid City Business Leaders at 2026 Awards Celebration
June 10, 2026
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