Community Builder of the Year
Armetha Pihlstrom
Pihlstrom Consulting
Armetha Pihlstrom has never been afraid to bet on herself. After a successful corporate career – including a pivotal role in helping launch Truvia at Cargill and securing Oprah Winfrey’s endorsement through sheer initiative. After leaving Cargill in 2017, she channeled that boldness into launching her own business consulting firm that same year. Today she works with clients such as Impossible Foods, Twin Cities Veg Fest, and creates community-focused events from the influential MLK Legacy awards to Bold Moves Brunches.
The turning point came through MEDA’s Ascend program, which Armetha credits with taking her business from surviving to thriving. Through Ascend she gained knowledge of P&L management, investor relations, strategic planning, and how to stop playing small.
Armetha’s story is proof that setbacks can become your greatest comebacks, and that with the right support and courage to think big, the possibilities are endless.
Learn More About Our Award Winners
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Steven Carleton
Rani Engineering, LLC
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
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Paul Edlund
J. Benson Construction Corp.
RESILIENT ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR -
Richard Esquivel
Sunrise Banks
SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPION OF THE YEAR
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Annual Report 2025
MEDA’s Impact Throughout 2025
HELPING BIPOC ENTREPRENEURS SUCCEED