Williston City Commission Awards $60,000 in Community Enhancement Grants

The Williston City Commission has once again shown its commitment to regional growth and continued success by giving out $60,000 in Community Enhancement Grant funds to 34 projects across the region. This marks another record year for the Williston STAR Fund program, which continues to make a huge impact on local organizations and initiatives.

Williston STAR Fund Expands Grants Amid High Demand

The Williston STAR Fund Advisory Board received 50 $482,890 Community Enhancement requests. In response to the significant demand, the Board suggested increasing the grant share from $50,000 to $60,000. The City Commission accepted the change on February 11, 2025, and the 34 winners were approved at the February 25, 2025, commission meeting.

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The 2025 applications included everything from youth initiatives and historical preservation to tourism and more. The money had a regional influence by being distributed to Watford City, Fortuna, Tioga, and Sidney.

This funding is crucial, said Economic Development Executive Director Anna Nelson. "Williston is committed to regional projects that support our fundamental priorities, including education, workforce development, and quality of life. We proudly use the STAR Fund Community Enhancement Grant program to support groups that strengthen, invest in, and contribute to our community as the region's hub city."

Williston Mayor Howard Klug agreed, saying the program supported a variety of groups despite limited financing. Klug said that with 50 applicants and limited finances, the initiative helped 34 groups, including new ones, capital improvement projects, and special event non-profits.

The following organizations and projects received 2025 CE grants:

• Korner Lions Club $1,000.00
• Boys & Girls Club of Richland County $1,000.00
• The Stone Foundation (Milestone Health Partners) $1,500.00
• Ray Golf Association $2,500.00 Williston Basin Curling Club $1,500.00
• Stepping Stones Foundation $1,500.00
• Kids' Day Out Foundation $1,500.00
• ConnectUs Foundation $2,500.00
• The Bakken Classic Junior Livestock Show $1,000.00
• Junior Achievement North $3,000.00
• The Fred & Clara Eckert Foundation for Children $3,000.00
• Tioga Historical Society $1,000.00
• To The Cross Ministry $1,000.00
• Marketplace for Kids $1,000.00
• Hagan Elementary Inclusive Playground $3,000.00
• Upper Missouri Health District Safe Seats Program $3,000.00
• NW Regional Science & Engineering Fair $1,250.00
• McKenzie County Heritage Association $1,000.00
• Fortuna Rural Fire District $2,500.00
• Williston Senior Center $3,250.00
• Western Star Foundation-Brew Your Business $1,000.00
• Feed My Starving Children-Watford Mobile Pack $1,000.00
• F5 Project $1,500.00
• McVay Elementary PTO $3,000.00
• Harmonic Creative World $3,000.00
• Williston Area Visual Arts $1,000.00
• Williston Band Boosters $1,000.00
• Williston United Futbol Club $1,000.00
• Bethel Lutheran Foundation $1,500.00
• Crosby County Club $1,000.00
• Central Dakota Forensic Nurse Examiners $3,000.00
• Fortuna Recreational Association $1,500.00
• Entertainment, Inc $1,000.00
• Springbrook Bible Camp $2,500.00

I wanted to include all the recipients because it's more meaningful when you see it in a complete list. These dollars did a lot of good in our area!

Fall is when CE grant applications open. The Williston Economic Development Office will announce the 2026 grant application session later. Apply for money if your organization or group wants to improve Williston.