WILLISTON ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT
NEWS & UPDATES
November 11, 2021
Dear Williston Wire Readers,

We had a busy week with Workhorse Aerospace demonstrating its Horsefly drone in Williston. "UAS will become tremendously helpful for us because they are going to help our industry, whether it be oil and gas or agriculture, reduce costs and increase efficiencies," said Shawn Wenko. Read the media's full stories below.

Shawn, Ann, Barb, Brenda and Devyn
Drone Demonstration held in Williston

KUMV-TV - The future of how you could possibly receive deliveries was presented in Williston. On Tuesday, a drone manufacturing company showed off a device capable of sending small packages to homes and businesses. Drone technology and the opportunities it can provide are moving at a rapid pace. With Williston and Watford City showing interest in the industry, Workhorse Aerospace wanted to give the community a glimpse into what they can do. Read More
Williston STAR Fund Allocations total
$256,000 in November

Williston Economic Development - The Williston City Commission, City Administrator David Tuan and the STAR Fund Board of Directors have allocated up to $256,000 in STAR Fund incentives in November. The projects include four Flex PACE Interest Buydown grants for small businesses that are growing. “What’s unique about these applications is that business expansion is the name of the game,” said Williston Economic Development Executive Director Shawn Wenko. “All of the businesses that were seen (at the City Commission meeting on Tuesday, November 9) were existing businesses that are expanding their footprint; they’re either buying new buildings, expanding in their existing space, or taking steps to own their existing buildings.” Read More
New Wayfinding System featured on
Williston Works Podcast

Williston Economic Development - In Episode 7 of the Williston Works Podcast, Williston Economic Development Executive Director Shawn Wenko interviews Rachel Laqua, Williston Principal Planner, about Wayfinding efforts in Williston. Wayfinding systems help visitors understand a space and find their way so they feel comfortable. Watch the full podcast here.
Mini Match Monday to highlight Pit 105
on November 15

Williston Economic Development - Next week's Mini Match Monday small business will feature Pit 105. Owners Caleb and Micki Hinricksen opened the business in early 2021. The Hinricksen's utilized the Williston STAR Fund Mini Match program to help launch their business. Learn more on WED's social media sites November 15.
Genesis Owner featured on America's SBDC
Tribute Page in honor of Veteran's Day

SBDC News Release - As part of the Small Business Development Center's efforts to recognize and honor veterans this Veterans Day, America's SBDC, the SBDC's national association, asked for submissions of veteran staff members or clients. From North Dakota, the SBDC is pleased to showcase Lenny Johnson, owner of Genesis in Williston. Lenny served in the Air Force before relocating to North Dakota and attending Minot State University. Read More
Williston's Genesis to open in
Dakota Square Mall for Holidays

News Release - Locally-owned and operated clothing store Genesis recently announced its plans to open a store in Dakota Square Mall in Minot for the upcoming holidays. Genesis, located next to Journey’s in the mall, is scheduled to open their doors to the public the week of November 15. Read More
Save the Date: NW North Dakota Semi-Annual
Job Fair March 24 in Williston

News Release - Mark your calendars! The Spring Northwest North Dakota Semi-Annual Job Fair will be held on Thursday, March 24 from 2-6 p.m. at Williston State College. Employer registration will open in January.
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New Study ranks North Dakota Happiest State

Inforum - North Dakotans, look in the mirror. Are you smiling? There's a good chance you are, according to a new study that says you live in America's "Happiest State." The research by sleep experts Amerisleep analyzed 17 factors that contribute toward happiness, such as health, income, work-life balance and environment, to find the happiest state in America. Read More
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