Williston – Williston Economic Development (WED) has aunched a new mentorship program in January 2021. The new “Superstars” initiative is designed to connect successful small business owners with potential Williston entrepreneurs.
“To become a mentor, the individuals must have utilized the Williston STAR Fund, been in business for a minimum of five years and established themselves as a leader in our community,” explained WED executive director Shawn Wenko.
The first group of Superstars represents a variety of businesses. All of them are familiar with the Williston STAR Fund, which was created by a voter approved 1% city sales tax. Seventy-five percent of the sales tax collections benefits infrastructure debt relief for City of Williston projects while 25% helps jobs creation and community development projects through the STAR Fund. The STAR Fund is governed by a seven-member board of directors.
The 2021 Williston Superstars include the following:
• Kevin Black, Malachi Black and Wyatt Black, Owners of Creedence Energy Services
• Lenny Johnson, Owner of Genesis
• Katie Kringen, Owner of Chatter Pediatric Therapy and Chatter Walk-in Clinic
• Josh Kringen, Owner of MonDak Sports
• Eddie and Megan Wold, Owners of Meg-A-Latte and Lounge Thirty 3
The above mentors have agreed to help mentees learn about starting a new business or expanding an existing business in the Williston trade region.
“These individuals have agreed to be a conduit to entrepreneurs out there in exchange for some complimentary advertising,” said Wenko.
WED will run a six-week promotion beginning Jan. 18 featuring each of the Superstars. The mentors will be featured in broadcast, print and digital marketing.
WED plans to add more mentors annually.
“We intend to grow the initiative by inducting new mentors each year,” said Wenko. “We believe success breeds success and that these business leaders will help foster future development by leading, leveraging their strengths and sharing experiences with fellow entrepreneurs. This is entrepreneurship at its best.”
To learn more about the Superstars program visit WED’s social media accounts or their website at willistondevelopment.com or email [email protected].
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