June 2026

Williston Economic Development Announces Date of Annual Banquet

In partnership with the North Dakota Small Business Development Center, Williston Economic Development (WED) is excited to announce that our annual banquet will take place on August 21, 2026, from 6:00 - 10:00 pm. Location, ticket information, and more will be announced in the coming weeks. STAR fund recipients will be honored during the banquet.

To save the event as a calendar invite, please use the button below.

City of Williston to Host Economic Development Association of North Dakota's 2026 Fall Conference

The City of Williston has been picked to host the EDND's 2026 Fall Conference! The Conference will bring Economic Developers, Community Leaders, and Industry Professionals from across the state of North Dakota to continue to champion the growth and diversification of North Dakota's economy through professional development, networking, and advocacy.

Sponsorship opportunities are available for EDND's Fall Conference. Sponsorship information, as well as more information on the event, can be found below.

Community Action Partnership of North Dakota to conduct Statewide Community Needs Assessment

CAPND, in partnership with North Dakota State University, is in the process of conducting a Statewide Community Needs Assessment. The survey helps Community Action and other partners develop local action plans based on the needs of the communities they serve.



CAPND is asking that at least one adult from every household participate. Every response helps strengthen their network. The survey closes June 30th.

Find the Good Life Candidate Marketplace

The North Dakota Department of Commerce, through Find the Good Life, has announced that North Dakota employers now have access to the Candidate Marketplace. The marketplace provides employers with a pipeline of candidates looking to make North Dakota their home. Employers must fill out the Employer Access Request, which can be found using the button below.

U.S Small Business Administration Announces America's Seed Fund Summit

Taking place across the month of July, The Summit includes virtual and in-person events connecting entrepreneurs, innovators, and researchers from across the country to various programs known as America's Seed Fund. The programs are the nation's largest source of early-stage, non-dilutive funding for high-growth technology startups.

By completing this registration, you will officially be registered for the full Summit, which includes all five virtual programming events hosted by SBA each Wednesday (3-4 PM ET) in July (July 1, July 8, July 15, July 22, and July 29). If you cannot attend specific sessions, video recordings will be available.

Further information, including registration, can be found below.

Up to $15 Million Available to Help Communities Build New Playgrounds Across the Midwest and Northeast

Communities across North Dakota (and other states) can now access up to $15 million in funding for new playground projects through the 2026 Health Kids Initiative. The program is offered by Play & Park Structures in partnership with Commercial Recreation Specialists (CRS). The program is designed to help park districts, schools, and community organizations secure additional funding for projects.

Applications close June 30, 2026.

$400,000 in grant funding available to expand evidence-based services that strengthen ND families

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that $400,000 of FamilyFirst Services Training and Implementation Grant funds are available for agencies and professionals to complete training and provide approved, evidence-based FamilyFirst prevention services. Grant applications are open through March 1, 2027, or until all funds are allocated.

MDU Resources Announces Opening of 2027 Grant Cycle

MDU Resources Foundation has announced the opening of its 2027 grant cycle. Applications will be considered for requests focusing on Community & Culture, Human Services, Education, and Environment & Recreation. Applications will be accepted from June 1 to October 1, 2026.

More information on the grant can be found below.

Williston State College Announces 2026 Summer Registration Dates

Williston State College has announced registration days for its upcoming semester. In order to register for classes and attend a registration day, students must be accepted for admission. Drop-in advising will be available this summer for students who are unable to attend the specific registration days.

For more information, please visit the link below.

Williston Basin School District #7 Announces Back-to-School Open Houses

Williston Basin School District #7 has announced 3 total Back-to-School Open House sessions. The sessions offer an opportunity to meet teachers, see classrooms, and get ready for the upcoming school year.

For more information on Back-to-School, please visit the link below.

Williston Works Podcast: Episode 803 - Select USA: Williston's Competitive Edge

Did you catch Episode 803 of the Williston Works Podcast? In this special episode of the Williston Works Podcast, host Anna Nelson records live from the SelectUSA Investment Summit, where leaders from around the world gather to discuss business growth, investment, and economic opportunity.

Featuring guests Joe Wiegand, Margaret Rose, Susan Donkers, and Ann Rybka, this conversation explores what makes communities stand out to investors, the importance of relationships in economic development, and how communities like Williston compete on a national and global stage.

New Bakery Opens in Williston

Ambassadors of the Chamber of Commerce, City staff, and local community members came together on June 26 to celebrate the opening of Williston's newest bakery, 8 West. 8 West prides itself on serving fresh pastries and delicate desserts made right on site, comparable to a Parisian cafe, all while being located right here in Williston! To find out more about 8 West, including hours, location, and more, please visit their Facebook page, using the button below.

Williston Economic Development Celebrates Economic Development Week

What an incredible week celebrating the businesses, innovators, and workforce that keep Williston moving forward. From our Industry & HR Roundtable to groundbreakings, your energy and engagement made this year’s Economic Development Week one for the books.

Weren't able to make it, or want to catch up on events you may have missed throughout the week? Check out our Recap on our Facebook page using the link below!