Music, Dinner, And Awards Highlight Williston’s Economic Heroes
Williston Economic Development and the Small Business Development Center will recognize nearly 60 local organizations during their annual awards banquet Oct. 3 at the Grand Williston Hotel and Conference Center.
The event, which begins at 6 p.m., will include a social, live music by singer-songwriter Alma Cook, a buffet dinner, and an awards program presented in a new format. Organizers said the evening is intended to highlight businesses and individuals who received assistance through the STAR Fund programs between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025.
Recipients, who represent a cross section of Williston’s economy, will be honored as special guests and presented with personalized plaques.
“We are excited to shine the spotlight on even more of our businesses with this new format,” said Williston Economic Development Executive Director Anna Nelson. “Countless individuals, businesses, and organizations have worked tirelessly to bring goods and services to Williston, meeting the needs of both our residents and visitors. Their dedication and investment deserve to be recognized."
Over the past year alone, the program has seen roughly $20 million of private investment for every $1 million awarded through the STAR Fund. On that, Nelson noted that "We are deeply grateful to businesses of every size that serve, invest in, and give back to our community. This event is an opportunity to bring them together and to showcase them and all that they contribute to the city and the region.”
The STAR Fund is financed by a voter-approved 1% city sales tax, in effect through June 2030. Three-quarters of the revenue is used for infrastructure debt relief, while the remaining 25% is dedicated to job creation and community development. That portion of the fund is overseen by a seven-member board of directors.
The city’s partnership with the SBDC stretches back more than 20 years. Both offices consistently rank among the busiest in North Dakota for assisting new and expanding businesses, according to city officials.
Event organizers credited local sponsors for helping make the banquet possible.
Additional information about the banquet is available through Williston Economic Development at willistondevelopment.com.
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