Entrepreneur. Strategist. Builder of People, Brands & Businesses.
Shelly Gould Peterson
Founder & CEO of Promoting Me | Founder of EMPOWER ME | Speaker | Business Strategist | Community Leader
For nearly three decades, Shelly helped deliver major construction projects throughout the United States while developing teams, leaders, and businesses along the way.
During her executive career, Shelly was also a serial entrepreneur, owning 8 businesses across multiple industries, including restaurants, a catering company, mini storage facilities, apartment rentals, an electrical company, and an accounting business. She also invented and patented a product, ultimately selling the rights to bring it to a broader market.
Her experience wasn't learned only in a boardroom. It came from building businesses, managing people, navigating risk, solving problems, creating opportunities, and understanding firsthand what it takes to turn an idea into something viable.
The most important thing she built wasn't a building or a business.
It was people.
Today, Shelly brings nearly three decades of executive leadership and entrepreneurial experience to business strategy, branding, leadership development, personal branding, community impact, and EMPOWER ME—helping people and organizations recognize their value, strengthen their identity, and build what's next.
$3.5B+
Projects Delivered
2,500+
People Led & Mentored
14
States
30+
Years of Leadership Experience
115+
Major Projects
13
Businesses Owned
What She's Building Today
In The Media - Press & Featured Stories
From magazines to podcasts, see where Shelly has been featured.
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30 Years of Leadership That Builds More
Awards, Recognition, Leadership & Community Impact
Shelly’s impact extends beyond volunteerism. Her work represents three decades of business leadership, economic development, industry involvement, and community building that continues to create meaningful opportunities for others.
AGC Minnesota DEI Affiliate Impact Champion
Recognized for advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion within the construction industry while creating greater opportunities for people and businesses.
Business Enhancement Chair Leadership Award
Honored by the Cloquet Area Chamber for exceptional leadership supporting business growth, strengthening the local economy, and building a more vibrant and connected community.
Women in Leadership Award
Recognized for outstanding leadership, mentorship, and a commitment to creating opportunities for women in business and throughout the community.
Chamber Leadership
Advanced business advocacy, business enhancement, professional development, training, and public speaking.
Contruction Industry Leadership
Provided industry leadership through involvement with AGC Minnesota and other construction organizations.
2009–2018
Cloquet Economic Development Authority
Supported strategic growth, business development, and long-term economic opportunities throughout the Cloquet area.
2021–Present
BNI Wood City Leadership
Helps build a strong network of local professionals and encourages business growth through collaboration, relationships, and referrals.
Current
Board President, United Way of Carlton & Pine County Area
Provides strategic leadership focused on strengthening lives, supporting families, and creating lasting regional impact.
Founder
Hidden Gems of Cloquet
Founded a community initiative that celebrates local businesses, promotes the people and places that make Cloquet unique, and strengthens community pride.