Bonnie’s Hometown Grocery is a small business owned and operated by Bonnie Carlson in Clinton, Minnesota. With the support of the city of Clinton, Bonnie has invested in infrastructure to save energy and provide food access to the community. Moreover, Bonnie’s partnered with Big Stone Garlic Farm, the University of Minnesota, Russ Davis Wholesale and Mason Brothers Wholesale to build efficient and sustainable supply chains using existing rural infrastructure.

Honorable Mention

Preferred Hauler Deal

The East Side Area Business Association partnered with local development centers to address a common concern their members faced. By consolidating member waste haulers, the Preferred Hauler Deal reduces the carbon footprint of waste hauling and hauler costs, increasing business participation.

About the Sustainable Leadership: Small Employer Category

An employer with fewer than 500 employees that demonstrates collaborative efforts to pursue sustainable business practices or offer private-sector-based solutions to environmental challenges. The project should demonstrate commitment to environmental stewardship, economic benefit and social equity.