Van Buren County’s Market One hosted its Fifth Annual Awards Event at the scenic Black River Barn in South Haven. The event brought together local business owners, civic leaders, and community partners from Cass and Van Buren counties to celebrate the achievements of standout businesses and forward-thinking municipalities making a difference in Southwest Michigan.
The evening featured a keynote address by Tim Terrentine, Founder & Chief Translator of Translator’s Consulting Group.
A highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to organizations recognized for their innovation, leadership, and economic contributions. Winners were selected through a nomination and application process. The 2025 Market One Award recipients are:
- Community Champion of the Year: Hydro Aluminum Metals USA, LLC (Cassopolis)
- Municipal Trailblazer of the Year: The City of South Haven & South Haven Area Water Sewer Authority
- Business Innovator of the Year: Consumers Energy
- Economic Pioneer of the Year: Holtec – Palisades Power Plant (Covert)
- Legacy Award: Edward Lowe
- Best New Business of the Year: Lake Effect HVAC Company (Dowagiac) & Sly’s Seafood & Co. (Paw Paw)
“Businesses and municipalities across Cass and Van Buren counties are making remarkable strides and should be recognized,” said Zach Morris, Executive Director of Market One. “We are proud to celebrate these organizations, which exemplify the innovation, resilience, and leadership that is essential to building a thriving regional economy.”
In addition to the award winners, Market One also recognized ten distinguished supporters as Torchbearer Investors for their support within the last year and contributions to the organization’s mission. These investors include: Aileron Communications, City of Dowagiac, EDP Renewables, Edward Lowe Foundation, Hydro Aluminum Metals USA, LLC, PNC Bank, Southwest Michigan Regional Chamber, Village of Marcellus, Village of Vandalia, and Wightman.
“We are incredibly grateful for the local businesses and municipalities that invest in Market One,” said Luke Barber, Chair of the Market One Board. “Their support enables us to launch programs, secure grant funding, and provide the critical resources our employers and communities need to grow and succeed.”
About Market One
Market One is a nonprofit focused on connecting people, investments, and organizations with strategies and services that improve the quality of life and economic conditions in Cass and Van Buren counties. Its staff focuses on developing strategies that will allow communities to thrive by addressing needs related to workforce, community, and business development.
For more information, visit www.marketone.org, follow on Instagram @market1edo, or “like” on Facebook @Market1Edo.
