The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce is excited to announce the 2025 Business of the Year nominees. The following are nominated for Large Business of the Year: Jensen Motors, J&R Schugel, and Nuvera. The Small Business of the Year nominees are Inspired, MN Valley Funeral Homes, and Schaefer Companies. Congratulations to all of the businesses for their recognition from the New Ulm business community.
Since 1974, the New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce has recognized businesses in the New Ulm area for their Chamber involvement, community involvement and economic impact. Chamber members were asked to nominate businesses for this award. The Chamber Board of Directors reviewed all nominations and selected the top 3 nominees in each category. Now it is time for the Chamber Membership to decide who will be awarded this coveted recognition. The Large and Small Business of the Year Award recipients will be announced and recognized at the Chamber Annual Meeting, taking place on Thursday, February 20th at Turner Hall. Tickets are on sale now online or at the Chamber Office.
Every Chamber Member Business/Organization can vote once in each category, Large and Small. We’ve compiled profiles on each of the nominees to ensure voters can make an informed decision before casting their votes. This year, there is online and in-person voting options. Online voting is open now through February 19th. In-person voting will take place at the Chamber Annual Meeting on February 20th.
Chamber Members, please review the profiles below and then click here:
Online Voting Link (Google Form)
Note that each Chamber member business only gets one vote, so you will be required to enter which business you are representing, and we will only accept one vote per business. Please work with other staff internally to make these decisions. You will be allowed to vote for one small business and one large business. If you experience any issues with voting online, please contact the Chamber: chamber@newulm.com, 507-233-4300, or visit the Chamber Office at 1 N Minnesota St.
Small Business Nominees:
Inspired
MN Valley Funeral Homes
Schaefer Companies – Well, Crane and Contracting Services
Large Business Nominees:
Jensen Motors
JR Schugel
Nuvera
Inspired
Small Business Nominee
Inspired, a gift shop nestled in the heart of New Ulm, MN, is more than just a retail destination; it is a reflection of the community it serves. Established with the mission to inspire joy, connection, and creativity, Inspired offers a curated selection of women’s clothing, faux florals, children’s gifts, religious gifts, home décor, and more. What sets Inspired apart is not just the products we sell but the passion we pour into fostering a sense of community, supporting local artisans, and giving back in meaningful ways.
Community Involvement One of our most cherished traditions is our annual “Give Back” month in April, held in honor of our anniversary. During this special month, we select a local organization and donate $1 from every sale throughout April. This year, we partnered with Heart to Home Furnishings, raising both funds and awareness for their cause. It’s a way for us to celebrate another year in business while directly contributing to the community that has supported us so faithfully.
Another initiative we are especially proud of is our standing arrangement with NUMAS Haus, a local organization that provides emergency shelter and support services to women and children experiencing homelessness. Understanding the importance of confidence in pivotal moments, we donate outfits to women for job interviews or court dates. This small gesture not only provides them with appropriate attire but also serves as a boost to their self-esteem during challenging times.
In 2024, Inspired also supported nearly 40 different organizations through donations, ranging from local schools and churches to nonprofit groups. Whether it’s a gift basket for a silent auction or financial contributions to community events, we strive to be a business that actively uplifts those around us.
Economic Contributions As a proud local business, we understand the importance of supporting the local economy. Inspired’s operations contribute directly to New Ulm’s economy through employment opportunities, sourcing from local vendors, and drawing shoppers to the downtown area. Our Second Saturday Pop-Up events have become a staple of our business model. Each month, we invite a local maker or artisan without a storefront to showcase their work in our shop. This initiative provides these entrepreneurs with a platform to connect with customers and build their brands while enriching the shopping experience for our visitors.
Additionally, our commitment to showcasing unique, high-quality products encourages residents and visitors alike to shop local instead of traveling outside the community. This not only keeps dollars circulating within New Ulm but also helps strengthen our town’s reputation as a vibrant shopping destination.
Chamber Involvement Inspired has been an active member of the New Ulm Chamber of Commerce since our inception in 2017. Our owner, Christina Schwab, recently completed her second three-year term on the New Ulm Business & Retail Association (NUBRA) board. During her tenure, she worked alongside other local business leaders to promote commerce and collaboration in New Ulm.
Our participation in Chamber events extends beyond committee work. Inspired regularly takes part in Chamber-sponsored promotions and initiatives, such as the Halloween Hop, Shopping Opener, Small Business Saturday, and more. These efforts help strengthen the bonds between local businesses and provide a united front in attracting both locals and visitors to explore what New Ulm has to offer.
What Sets Inspired Apart At its core, Inspired is about connection. From our carefully curated inventory to our customer-centric events, everything we do is designed to make people feel seen and valued. Our focus on giving back—whether through financial donations, partnerships with organizations like NUMAS Haus, or our Second Saturday Pop-Ups—is a natural extension of our belief that a thriving business is one that lifts others up.
Inspired also prides itself on creating a welcoming atmosphere. Shopping here isn’t just about purchasing goods; it’s about experiencing joy, discovering unique finds, and feeling like part of a larger community. Our commitment to customer service, combined with our dedication to supporting local causes and artisans, creates a shopping experience that is as meaningful as it is enjoyable.
Looking Ahead As we reflect on 2024, we are filled with gratitude for the support of our customers, community, and fellow Chamber members. Being nominated for Small Business of the Year is an incredible honor and a testament to the relationships we have built and the values we uphold. We remain committed to being a positive force in New Ulm, continuing to give back, foster connections, and contribute to the vibrancy of our beloved town.
Thank you for considering Inspired for this recognition.
Minnesota Valley Funeral Homes
Small Business Nominee
Minnesota Valley Funeral Homes is honored to be nominated as the Chamber of Commerce’s Small Business of the Year. As your community-owned, nonprofit cooperative funeral home, we pride ourselves on the deep connections we share with the residents and the businesses of New Ulm. Our commitment to providing compassionate services, supporting our citizens at their most difficult times of need, and investing in the economic strength of our community truly sets us apart.
Since our establishment in 1929, Minnesota Valley Funeral Home’s mission has been simple: to serve our community with care, respect, and professionalism. As one of the last remaining nonprofit, community-owned cooperative funeral homes in the country, we are committed to providing the highest quality funeral services that honor the lives of those we serve while remaining deeply rooted in the values that make New Ulm a special place.
One of the most prominent ways we contribute to the beauty and vibrancy of New Ulm is through being the primary funding source for the flowers that adorn our downtown area. This initiative of honoring each family we served the previous year with a plaque in each flower basket ensures that New Ulm remains a beautiful city and shows our community members we still have each of their families in our hearts year after year.
Minnesota Valley Funeral Homes is an active member of the New Ulm Chamber of Commerce. We recognize the invaluable role the Chamber plays in supporting businesses, promoting economic development, and creating opportunities for growth. Our team is deeply involved in the Chamber’s initiatives, especially through our staff’s participation in Network New Ulm, a program that strengthens business connections, and professional growth. We also see the impact the Chamber has on tourism throughout the community and do our best to sponsor or participate in as many events as we can. Last year we donated to Baggin in the Streets, Spikin’ in the Street, the Annual Meeting, Oktoberfest, as well as had our staff participate in countless other Chamber sponsored events to keep growing strong business connections.
As a community-owned cooperative funeral home, we take great pride in our role in New Ulm’s local economy. We are committed to supporting fellow Chamber members and ensuring that our business practices benefit the community as a whole. By working exclusively with as many local Chamber members as we can, we ensure that the economic benefits of our services stay within New Ulm. From the flower arrangements for our funerals, to the catering services for luncheons, to the work that is done to maintain our buildings and vehicles, we prioritize supporting Chamber businesses that make our community strong. Our investments help sustain jobs, promote growth, and reinforce the strength of the local businesses, allowing New Ulm to prosper. By supporting each other, we create an environment where all businesses can succeed, making New Ulm a place where people are proud to live, work, and shop.
In conclusion, Minnesota Valley Funeral Homes is more than just a place where families come for funeral services—it is a true cornerstone of the New Ulm community. Through our economic impact, involvement in the Chamber of Commerce, and deep commitment to community service, we strive to make New Ulm a better place for all who live here. It is with great pride that we accept this nomination and look forward to continuing our work in support of our amazing community.
Schaefer Companies – Well, Crane and Contracting Services
Small Business Nominee
A Century of Dedication and Growth
In 1922 a family-owned enterprise that began as the Schaefer Well Company was founded by Art Schaefer, the company has consistently provided crucial water-related services to the region.
In the 1980s Steve Schaefer was the pioneer of the next step for Schaefer companies, with the introduction of Schaefer Crane Service. This addition officially expanded their operations and the company then became Schaefer Well Company Inc. – Schaefer Crane Service, further broadening their capabilities and establishing them as a multi-faceted provider. Their first crane, a 12 ½ ton crane was purchased, and the company took off. Fast forward, to today, with a fleet of ten cranes, the largest being a 350-ton crane.
Most recently, in 2021, with the vision of Ryan Bauer, and Derek MacHolda, Schaefer Contracting LLC was established. This leg of the company, expanded services to general contracting and millwright services for the grain elevator, ethanol and processor industries. This addition solidified their position as a family of three sister companies working in synergy.
“Our longevity isn’t just about surviving; it’s about adapting to the changing needs of our customers and community,” says Willis Schaefer, the current owner and grandson of the founder. “We’ve always strived to be more than just a service provider; we aim to be a trusted partner.”
Today, Schaefer Companies offers a comprehensive suite of services, including water well drilling, repair, maintenance, well sealing, waterline excavation, and crane services, all under the banner of family ownership and a proven track record.
This 100+ year milestone is a testament to the importance of core values, a dedication to expertise, and the strength of a family legacy.
Schaefer Companies have been in volved or hosted many community events over the last year, including Spiking in the Streets, they sponsored the main event concert at the Brown County Free Fair, were integral in displaying the upside-down Christmas tree with a retired, vintage crane at Herman Park – this was featured with New Ulm on national news. They hosted Trunk-or-Treat as well as Deck the Trucks with ROC Truck Club, featuring Santa and a new family friendly tradition for the residents of the region. Schaefer also donated to multiple organizations throughout the year, maintaining ways to give back to the community that has supported them for so many years. They have plans to continue to contribute in this way, looking forward to upcoming events such as Artic Blast, and Bagging in the Streets 2025. Being a family-owned company, Schaefer companies is all about family, community and bringing people together. They look forward to being an even more present fixture of the community for years to come!
Jensen Motors
large Business Nominee
History: Past to Present
Jensen Motors Inc was established in 1988 by purchasing Heritage Autostrasse. At that time, it was located in the current Jensen Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram building, formerly Maday Motors. In 1996 we purchased the undeveloped 6 blocks South of that location and built the current Jensen Buick GMC facility. We sold land to Joe’s Campers to move their business to their current location. In February 2018 we built and opened The Tunnel Car Wash between Jensen Buick GMC and Joe’s Campers. In March of 2021 we purchased Maday Motors from Paul and Denny Maday and returned to our original facility that Paul and Denny had made some nice upgrades to.
Two of Rick and Joan’s children, Ben and Nicole, are part of the family business as well. Ben Jensen is the General Manager at the Buick GMC Dealership and Nicole Briggs is the General Manager at the Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Dealership. Their youngest son, Zack, found a different calling and is a Funeral Director at Minnesota Valley Funeral Home.
Involvement in the Community in 2024
Jensen Motors is deeply rooted into New Ulm and the surrounding area. The Jensen family all reside in New Ulm. With spouses and grandchildren, it totals 16 involved in schools and activities. We pride ourselves in being supportive of the area schools, non-profits and churches. Along with being active on various boards and in community clubs, our employee family is also active in New Ulm and the surrounding area.
In 2024, our employee family was involved in and/or supported: New Um Area Foundation; New Ulm Country Club; United Way of Brown County Area; New Ulm Club; New Ulm City Charter Commission; New Ulm Jaycees; Rolling Thunder Youth; Wrestling Golf Sponsor; New Ulm Hockey/New Ulm Civic Center rink sponsor; New Ulm Figure Skating; NUBBA; New Ulm Soccer Assoc; ISD 88 Eagles Foundation. Extravaganza and Wash Card Sales; NUACS; MVL Golf Classic Sponsor; MLC Golf Classic Sponsor; Network New Ulm; Rotary; Sertoma; Lion’s Club; Ducks Unlimited; Pheasants Forever; Flying Dutchmen; Brown County Fair; New Ulm Baseball/Legion and Jr Baseball; Bavarian Blast; New Ulm Chamber/Spikin’ in the Sand /Willkommen Committee/Crazy Days Ping Pong Ball Drop/Parade of Lights; Turner Halle membership and Dodge Ball; Numas Haus; B the Light Gala; Farm Show; Bridging Brown County; State Street Theatre; New Ulm Journal page sponsors; Many area school fundraisers and after prom party donations.
Our Motto
Our advertising tagline is “Where friends send their friends since 1988”
In the 36 years in business, we have tried to simply do what’s right.
The Rotary 4-way test has been a great reference to live and work by:
* Is it the Truth?
* Is it Fair to all Concerned?
* Will it build Goodwill and better Friendships?
* Will it be beneficial to all Concerned?
Thank you for the honor of being considered for the Large Business of the Year.
J&R Schugel Trucking
large Business Nominee
J&R Schugel Trucking, founded in 1974, proudly celebrated its 50th anniversary this past year. Over the last five decades, the company has remained committed to its mission to provide safe, innovative, and superior transportation and logistics services while supporting both nationwide operations and local communities. In 2014, J&R Schugel transitioned to being 100% employee-owned, a pivotal milestone that gave employees a direct stake in the company’s success and fostered a culture of pride and empowerment.
In 2024, J&R Schugel made significant contributions to the local economy and actively engaged with the community through various initiatives. The company partnered with Disabled American Veterans (DAV) to unveil a military-themed Kenworth T680 truck as a tribute to veterans, raising awareness of their service and sacrifices. As part of this partnership, Wisconsin Kenworth, a CSM Company, donated $25,000 to DAV on behalf of J&R Schugel.
Additionally, the company supported local charities such as 2B Continued and Numas Haus, organizations providing crisis support and family stability. Demonstrating a commitment to helping those in need, J&R Schugel also lent a trailer to a local group collecting supplies for hurricane victims in North Carolina, ensuring essential goods reached impacted areas.
J&R Schugel’s New Ulm office employs around 90 corporate team members and, through its terminal, facilitated the onboarding of 180 drivers in 2024. These efforts provide high-quality, stable jobs, supporting the livelihoods of employees and their families. Beyond employment, the company drove economic growth with a $60 million capital investment, purchasing 216 trucks and 306 trailers, enhancing fleet capabilities while supporting the regional economy.
In 2024, J&R Schugel’s fleet traveled an astounding 63,586,559 miles—the equivalent of 266 trips to the moon—and handled 105,415 shipments. The company maintained a strong focus on southern Minnesota, picking up 6,685 outbound loads for customers in the region, with over 50% originating in New Ulm. Local partners included Kraft (2,998 loads), 3M (287 loads), AMPI (190 loads), and American Artstone (123 loads). Additionally, 3,621 inbound loads were delivered to support businesses in southern Minnesota, highlighting J&R Schugel’s dedication to strengthening the local economy.
Community involvement remains at the heart of J&R Schugel’s operations. The company participated in events such as the ECFE (Early Childhood Family Education) vehicle fair, local parades, the adopt-a-family program, and Santa’s Closet during the holidays. J&R Schugel also continued its collaboration with New Ulm High School’s Career and Technical Education (CTE) program, inspiring the next generation of skilled workers in diesel mechanics, logistics, and commercial driving.
To commemorate its 50th anniversary, J&R Schugel unveiled a 53-foot utility trailer showcasing its history and achievements. This milestone not only highlights the company’s enduring legacy but also emphasizes its dedication to empowering people, supporting communities, and driving progress forward.
Nuvera
large Business Nominee
Empowering New Ulm Through Connectivity
With over 115 years of dedication to growth and innovation, Nuvera stands as a proud hometown service provider, equipping hundreds of New Ulm residents with the high-speed internet, voice and video services. Our mission is to empower the communities we serve by delivering superior products, services, and technical support that enhance modern digital lifestyles. At Nuvera, the heart of what we do lies in building strong, long-term partnerships with residential and business customers, all while emphasizing exceptional customer service.
Nuvera’s most significant recent achievement is the ongoing commitment to the communities we serve – including New Ulm – with our Gig Cities fiber internet overbuild and expansion project. The Gig Cities investment in New Ulm alone reached $10 million in 2024 and $16 million over the last five years. Our fiber network now passes nearly 7,000 homes and businesses in New Ulm making them ready to connect to fiber internet, video and voice services.
The Gig City project extends opportunities for businesses and families, enabling broader access to remote work options, medical services, and enriched connections with one another. A reliable fiber internet network fosters economic growth and enhances community prosperity by ensuring communities like New Ulm remain competitive in a global economy. Our commitment to fostering a thriving, interconnected community with fast and reliable service drives everything we do.
Beyond delivering technology, Nuvera is deeply rooted in the communities we serve. We are proud to be the only New Ulm internet provider with a local office where customers can interact in person with our staff when they have questions or concerns. Our team at Nuvera takes pride in our customer-first approach, where personalized service and reliable support are at the core of our operations. Nuvera employes almost 100 people in the New Ulm area.
Headquartered in New Ulm, Nuvera actively support local events and initiatives, including sponsorships of the following:
• Oktoberfest
• Halloween Hop
• Festive Facades Contest
• Annual Chamber Dinner table sponsor
• Holiday trees
• Baggin’ in the Streets
• Spikin’ in the Streets
• HermannFest
• Bavarian Blast
Our commitment to education is unwavering, evidenced by four annual scholarships awarded to students from New Ulm area schools. Additionally, in 2024, Nuvera proudly donated more than $12,000 to schools, nonprofits, community fundraising events, local institutions like the fire and police departments, and more.
Looking ahead, innovation continues to be our driving force as we explore new technologies to better serve our communities. From expanding our fiber network to adopting sustainable practices in our operations, we remain steadfast in our pursuit of excellence. Nuvera’s vision revolves around not only meeting the needs of today but also anticipating the challenges of tomorrow, ensuring we remain a trusted partner for every customer we serve. Together, we’re building a future where technology empowers and unites our communities like never before.
Nuvera is not just shaping the future of connectivity—we’re strengthening the very fabric of our community, ensuring a legacy of innovation and support for generations to come.
Congratulations to all of this year’s nominees!
Vote here
1 vote per Chamber Member Business/organization
The New Ulm Area Chamber of Commerce has a membership of 380+ businesses including New Ulm’s largest and smallest employers, retailers, professional services and interested individuals. The Chamber’s mission is to encourage economic growth in our community by supporting our members through business development, networking, education, advocacy, and access to resources. A variety of businesses have been recognized as Business of the Year since 1974, including both large employers, small businesses and retail stores. To learn more, or to purchase tickets to the Chamber Annual Meeting, contact the Chamber at www.newulm.com, chamber@newulm.com, or 507-233-4300.