Small business champion
Sheletta
Brundidge
Sheletta Makes Me Laugh
Sheletta Brundidge has built a vibrant multimedia platform that thousands flock to for the word on the street in community news, public policy updates, and a daily dose of joy. Her content educates, entertains, and empowers, always with a healthy helping of laughter.
Her platform aptly named Sheletta Makes Me Laugh, is a trusted source of information and inspiration for underserved communities across the Twin Cities and beyond. Her daily newsletter greets readers with a masthead that says, “Get Your Happy Back,” and it really does make you laugh.
Sheletta has a long career as an Emmy Award-winning comedian, radio host, and social media influencer and uses humor and storytelling as a bridge to deeper conversations about equity, access, and community empowerment. She organized the first Black Entrepreneurs Day at the Capitol in 2023 and now an annual event, designed to amplify the voices of underrepresented business owners among lawmakers. Dubbed “Minnesota’s Autism Mom”, she also works tirelessly to support her three autistic children while educating the masses.
Her mission is clear – to elevate the voices of those too often left out of the conversation, and to change the narrative around the Black community by showcasing stories of resilience, resources, leadership, and success.
“We often find out about money, resources, and infrastructure when we’re reading about it in the paper – after it’s too late and already been handed out,” said Sheletta. “But I can tell my network of thousands of small business owners about opportunities like the PROMISE Act and help spread the word.”
“I help people get a seat at the table.”
Sheletta Brundidge
And she does exactly that. Sheletta is a powerful megaphone for those who have been overlooked or silenced, and is determined to use her voice always grounded in purpose.
“If you don’t move by your purpose, you’ve got nothing to do,” said Sheletta. “I’m proud to support MEDA’s efforts with the PROMISE Act. It aligns with my mission and theirs – MEDA is a trusted organization that offers real support, not empty promises. They want to see us succeed.”
Though broadcasting has been her world for over 20 years, entrepreneurship wasn’t part of her original plan.
“It wasn’t on my Bingo card,” she laughs.
“The system isn’t built for us to succeed, and it’s not changing anytime soon,” she said. “That’s why those of us with a voice have to be bold, courageous, and speak up when something isn’t right. I see my job as being the woman in front of the message. And yes, sometimes there’s a cost to that.”
But for Sheletta Brundidge, the work is worth it.
“I move with faith and purpose. That’s my grant. My contract. My future employees. My responsibility.”
And with that purpose leading the way, she’s building a legacy that lifts communities, shifts systems, and gets the word out – loud, clear, and full of heart.
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Conrad Nguyen
Kortech
ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR
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Rolando Borja-Trujillo
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4RM+ULA
4RM+ULA
COMMUNITY BUILDER OF THE YEAR
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Sheletta Brundidge
Sheletta Makes Me Laugh
SMALL BUSINESS CHAMPION OF THE YEAR