Press Release: IgniteMN Executive Director Transition
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Date: Tuesday, February 4, 2025
Contact:
Valerie Lockhart
Communications Director
[email protected]
IgniteMN Announces Executive Director Transition
Stacy Nimmo to Step Down After Five Years of Leadership, Leaving a Legacy of Growth and Regional Impact
RED WING, MN – IgniteMN today announced that Stacy Nimmo, who has served as Executive Director for the past five years, will be stepping down from her role as she and her family relocate to Western Illinois. Stacy will lean on her experience in regional economic development, and bring her dedication to an organization focused on community action, continuing to foster entrepreneurship and innovation in communities of need.
During her tenure, Stacy led a transformation of the organization, evolving Red Wing Ignite to IgniteMN, expanding its reach beyond Red Wing to serve the broader Southeast Minnesota region. Under her leadership, IgniteMN established the E1 Ecosystem, launched new programs such as the Ignite Accelerator, and deepened partnerships with organizations like Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF) to provide greater support for entrepreneurs.
“Stacy’s leadership has been nothing short of extraordinary,” said Matthew Lessard, Executive Board Member and Treasurer of IgniteMN. “She transformed IgniteMN into a regional powerhouse for innovation and entrepreneurship, ensuring that startups and small businesses in Southeast Minnesota have the resources and connections they need to thrive. While we will miss her deeply, we are grateful for the strong foundation she has built, and we are committed to continuing this important work.”
The IgniteMN Board of Directors will lead the search for the organization’s next Executive Director and will support the staff through the transition process.
“IgniteMN’s mission and vision will continue to thrive beyond my tenure,” said Stacy Nimmo. “The incredible team, the engaged partners, and the supportive ecosystem we have built together will ensure the long-term success of this organization. I’m proud of all we have accomplished and excited to see IgniteMN continue to flourish in the years ahead.”
IgniteMN will remain dedicated to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic development in Southeast Minnesota, ensuring that Stacy’s legacy of impact continues.
The IgniteMN Board of Directors will oversee the transition, appoint an interim ED for key community initiatives, and provide support to the staff until a new Executive Director is appointed. IgniteMN’s existing team will continue running day-to-day operations. If you have specific questions or concerns you can reach out to our Board of Directors at [email protected].
For more information about IgniteMN and updates on the transition, visit www.ignitemn.org and stay connected by subscribing to the newsletter.
### About IgniteMN
IgniteMN is a regional hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and economic development in Southeast Minnesota. Through mentorship, education, and strategic partnerships, IgniteMN helps startups and small businesses access the resources they need to succeed. Programs like the Ignite Cup, the IgniteMN Accelerator, and the E1 Collaborative are designed to foster a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem in the region.
