EDC Symposium
EDC Symposium Event Details
2025 EDC Symposium
Date: March 13th, 2025
Time: 7:30AM - 9:30AM
Location: Precision Planting Operations Center, 801 Agriculture Dr., Morton
Tickets: $30 for EDC Investors & $40 for Non EDC Investors
The Annual EDC Symposium hosted by the Morton Economic Development Council (MEDC) serves as a platform to showcase the progress of their current strategic plan, Mission Morton 2026. One of the highlights of this event is the presentation of the Morton Venture Award, which recognizes outstanding business owners in Morton who have made significant contributions to the community and their employees through exemplary leadership, growth, and innovation.
This event is open to the public, offering an opportunity for community members, business leaders, and stakeholders to come together and celebrate the achievements of the local business community. During the symposium, attendees can enjoy breakfast, a highlight video, providing insights into the remarkable accomplishments facilitated by the MEDC network partners and resources, as well as business investments in Morton. Nominations for the Morton Venture Award are accepted in November, with the award presented to the winner during the symposium held annually in March.
2025 Venture Award Recipient:
Sara O’Shea of So Chic Boutique
Congratulations to Sara Shea, owner of So Chic Boutique, on receiving the 2025 Morton EDC Venture Award! Sara’s dedication to creativity, community, and entrepreneurship has made a lasting impact on Morton, providing a one-of-a-kind shopping experience and inspiring local business growth. Her passion for supporting small businesses and creating a welcoming space for customers makes her a true asset to our community. We are proud to recognize her hard work and leadership with this well-deserved award!
Past Venture Award Recipients
2025: Sara O’Shea, So Chic Boutique
2024: Kath Kemp, Kemp 208
2023: Mark & Kim Johnson, Johnson Funeral Home
2022: Brad Kniep, American Rental
2021: Bob Dittmer, Business and Community Development
2020: Bobby Hambrick, AutonomouStuff
2019: David Mills, David Mills CPA
2018: Tim Leman, Sam Leman Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram Fiat
2017: Sam Parrott, Season’s Gastropub
2016: Mike Murphy, Mike Murphy Ford
2015: Phil Kuhl, Kuhl Insurance
2014: Carol Lindstrom Aupperle, Oak Lawn Estates
2013: Tom Marchal, The Iona Group
2012: Jean Ann and Gordon Honegger, Morton Community Bank
2011: Bill Morton, Morton Development
2010: Katie Vanderberg, Eli’s Coffee Shop
2009: Tom Menold, Morton Construction and Restoration