Heights Pizza Man Named Business of the Year
Under owner Chris Kolstad's leadership, Heights Pizza Man has been named the 2024 Business of the Year by the Columbia Heights Economic Development Authority (EDA). This recognition is a testament to Heights Pizza Man’s success as a local business known for continuously giving back to the community. Nominations for Heights Pizza Man highlighted the business’s generosity and commitment to the people of Columbia Heights.
“During the EDA’s review of the nominations, it became apparent that Heights Pizza Man has become an integral part of our community,” said Community Development Coordinator Mitch Forney. “Their dedication to supporting local nonprofits, assisting those in need, and fostering a sense of unity is commendable. I am proud to see them recognized for their outstanding contributions, and I do not doubt that they will continue to inspire others to make a positive impact in our community.”
Kolstad purchased Heights Pizza Man in January 2020, not knowing the COVID-19 pandemic was just around the corner. At a time of great uncertainty for businesses large and small, Kolstad chose to focus outward. During school closures, he saw the void left by the absence of school lunches and invited families to contact him for free pizza slices during lunchtime.
“We don’t have dine-in, so thankfully we were able to get back up and running,” Kolstad said of the pandemic. “We were operating with delivery when many other businesses remained closed.”
Above: From left, Mayor Amáda Márquez Simula, Heights Pizza Man owner Chris Kolstad, Kitchen Manager Ryan Beatt, and Community Development Coordinator Mitch Forney pictured in front of Heights Pizza Man after the award was presented to Kolstad on May 1.
When the Southern Anoka County Assistance (SACA) Food Shelf announced in November 2023 that it was facing a funding shortage to provide holiday meal ingredients to its clients, Kolstad stepped up. His leadership and generosity were instrumental in ensuring SACA clients could enjoy a holiday meal. His initiative inspired other businesses, organizations, and individuals to contribute to SACA, amplifying the impact of his gift.
While much of Heights Pizza Man’s philanthropy focuses on food insecurity, Kolstad also prioritizes community safety. He offers free rides home on New Year’s Eve, ensuring that cost is not a barrier for anyone to get home safely.
Just this March, Kolstad jumped on a community member’s idea and launched a “pay it forward” program to help anyone needing a meal. With community donations and a portion of sales going towards the program, Heights Pizza Man's latest effort makes meals available to community members who may not have other options.
“We were supposed to make pizza," Kolstad said. “My favorite part is that it’s become more than that.”
Kolstad said the previous owner of Heights Pizza Man took a chance on him when he was given the unexpected opportunity to purchase the business. “We’ve put everything into it and are fortunate to have the community behind us,” Kolstad said. “This recognition means a lot not only to me but also to my staff. They genuinely care about this business, which is a big deal.”
Congratulations, Heights Pizza Man! Thank you for helping build a stronger community in Columbia Heights.
The Outstanding Business of the Year Award recognizes businesses in the City for noteworthy accomplishments, long-standing contributions to the community, and significant community service efforts. The nomination window for next year's award will open in January 2025. Visit columbiaheightsmn.gov/business for more information.
5-2-2024