Why Do Williston Entrepreneurs Thrive?
It’s easy to see why people choose Williston when they’re looking to start a business. Not only does it have a sturdy economy built on oil, agriculture and tourism, but area residents are known for being supportive, kind and hardworking, and the city continues to prioritize advancement.
Additionally, the region is as beautiful as it is bountiful, meaning Williston entrepreneurs can live a thriving life outside of work, as well. Situated near the confluence of the Yellowstone and Missouri rivers, Williston offers convenient access to extraordinary historic sites, world-class hunting and fishing, and beautiful state and national parks.
It is conveniently located 60 miles from the Canadian border and 18 miles from the Montana state line.
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Williston Entrepreneurs Enjoy Ample Resources
As for the business side of things, Williston-based entrepreneurs have a leg up because they have access to ample resources. Jeremy Stahowiak, co-owner of The Range Sports Bar and Simulators, says he and co-owner Eli Black turned to the city while launching their business and received tremendous support.
“We spent a lot of time working with Williston Economic Development. We also used the Williston Area Chamber of Commerce and took advantage of grants,” Stahowiak says.
The same applies to Tess Scully, owner and operator of Scully Design Build Inc. “We were just builders and have been in the industry our entire lives,” Scully says. “The city was selling an old Ford dealership building, and we were inspired to transform it to become the hub of the downtown. The city was extremely supportive of this initiative. There is a team approach here, and everyone wants you to succeed. When you do something in Williston, our city embraces your efforts.”
Lev Cooper, president of Dynamic Well Services Inc., which provides various oilfield services, bought his business from the previous owner in 2018. Cooper says the transition was seamless because of the people willing to help.
“We have strong people, and other business owners – even competitors – who helped me,” Cooper says.
Varied and Vibrant Businesses
While these businesses have found success in Williston, they are quite different – as is the motivation behind each of them.
“We’re not just doing something for ourselves; we’re working to transform spaces that build community,” Scully says. “Many businesses came to Williston because of the oil and gas boom, and we’re working to honor our community and highlight the possibilities in addition to the oil and gas industry.”
Stahowiak says the inspiration for The Range Sports Bar and Simulators was an answer to an abbreviated golfing and hunting season in North Dakota.
“We wanted to extend the season for us and the community but also provide something for people to do in general,” Stahowiak says. “Giving back and adding to the quality of life here was important. We wanted to positively impact Williston citizens and give back to a city that has provided for us.”
Williston Is the Right Choice
For these Williston entrepreneurs, it’s not a question that basing their business here was the right decision.
Being in Williston is an obvious choice for Cooper’s business, and because of the region’s booming oil and gas industry, he has experienced much growth and change since he took over. Additionally, thanks to the community and its support, he has survived challenging moments like COVID-19 and continues to thrive.
As for Stahowiak, who was a retail manager for over 20 years before starting his business, Williston has helped him advance his career and provide financial opportunities that he says may not have been available otherwise.
“Now, owning a business, the area continues to provide for us and our families,” he says.
Speaking of providing, Scully says, “We started our business because we are from here but also because Williston has a climate of growth. The population has continued to grow since we moved here in 2005. While not always perfect, the growth has allowed businesses to expand and improve themselves. Living here is a beautiful place to live with the prairie and nearby Yellowstone River.”
Brew Your Business
Listen up, Williston entrepreneurs! Mark your calendars for the second Wednesday of every month.
On these days, a program called Brew Your Business convenes in the Teton Lounge at Williston State College. The monthly meeting is open to all entrepreneurs who want to learn about what it takes to launch their businesses. Plus, they’ll receive free advice from professionals, including lenders, CPAs, marketing firms, established business owners and attorneys.
“Brew Your Business was spearheaded out of a desire to revitalize our 1 Million Cups program, which was a good initiative here for 7 years, but we wanted to reinvent ourselves and boost the interest and support for entrepreneurs in Williston,” says Cyrena Weeks, Brew Your Business organizer.
The first meeting took place in 2024, with over 40 entrepreneurs in attendance, along with students from Williston High School.
“The first session featured Keith Olson, who is the Small Business Development Center – Williston Director, interviewing Jeremy Stahowiak, co-owner of The Range Sports Bar and Simulators in Williston,” Weeks says. “They provided the attending entrepreneurs with plenty of excellent information and tips. Then there was a question-and-answer session to help the entrepreneurs even more.”
Brew Your Business is sponsored by Williston Economic Development, Williston Area Chamber of Commerce and the North Dakota Small Business Development Center-Williston.
“There is a good entrepreneurial spirit in Williston, and we encourage all startup innovators to join us every month,” Weeks says.
– Kevin Litwin contributed to this article.
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