Helping Entrepreneurs’ Dreams Come True in Williston, ND

iStock.com/ridofranz

Launched just before the onset of COVID-19, Hansens Unlimited Mall in Williston, ND, has grown into a vibrant hub for entrepreneurs looking to test the waters before launching a storefront of their own.

Founded by Donna Hansen after two years of planning, the space was designed to support creators frustrated by the challenges of craft shows and high startup costs during Williston’s post-boom economy.

The Williston, ND, mall features up to 60 boutique-style booths rented out to local entrepreneurs, ranging from painters and furniture upcycles to handmade bath product creators and holistic goods sellers.

“We wanted to give everyday people a place to try their business idea without the burden of overhead,” Hansen says.

Vendors pay rent but not consignment or transaction fees. Hansens Unlimited Mall covers the credit card costs and even handles quarterly sales tax filings, making it easier for creatives to focus on their craft. Over the past five years, eight vendors have graduated from booths to brick-and-mortar shops. “That’s the goal,” Hansen says. “To help them see what it really takes and to thrive.”

The Williston, ND, community has shown unwavering support of the mall and entrepreneurs, especially during the toughest of times.

“This community has been so supportive,” Hansen says. “I don’t know how many times we hear it every day, and I don’t get sick of it. People say, ‘We want to shop local. We want to support you guys.’ Even during the pandemic when we could only have six people in a 10,000-square-foot space, the community found a way to keep us going.”