Building a Business Outdoors: Tony Dorn to Speak at TREK

Two Rivers Entrepreneur Kinnection (TREK) to Feature Tony Dorn on August 4

Advance Thief River invites entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members to attend the next Two Rivers Entrepreneur Kinnection (TREK) session on Tuesday, August 4, from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. at 102 Main Avenue North in Thief River Falls.

This month’s featured speaker is Tony Dorn, owner of Kingpin Bear Baits & Scent, a business built around the many outdoor recreation opportunities available in Northwest Minnesota.

Outdoor Recreation and Tourism

Tony operates a bait shop in Thief River Falls and has successfully expanded his business to include guided fishing trips on the Red Lake River, full-service ice house rentals during the winter season, and bear bait sales and guided bear hunts in the fall. His entrepreneurial journey demonstrates how local natural resources can be transformed into multiple business opportunities while supporting tourism and outdoor recreation in our region.

Three Generations of Entrepreneurs

Coming from three generations of entrepreneurs, Tony brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on entrepreneurship. Attendees will hear firsthand about his journey of building and diversifying a business, the challenges and opportunities he has encountered, and how he continues to grow a successful enterprise by utilizing the abundant natural resources available right here in Thief River Falls.

About TREK

TREK is a monthly networking and learning event that brings entrepreneurs, business leaders, and community members together to learn from experienced professionals and innovative thinkers. Each session includes coffee, networking, and valuable insights from individuals who are making a difference in our region.

Whether you are a current business owner, aspiring entrepreneur, community leader, student, or simply someone who has an interest in small business and a vibrant local economy, TREK is for you. Everyone is welcome.

Join us on August 4 to hear Tony’s inspiring story and discover how entrepreneurship, innovation, and a deep connection to the outdoors have shaped his business success.

Date: Tuesday, August 4
Time: 8:30 – 9:30 a.m.
Location: 102 Main Avenue North, Thief River Falls

TREK sessions are free and open to the public. Coffee and networking are included.

You may also like…

From Public Service to Entrepreneurship

From Public Service to Entrepreneurship

Join us for TREK on September 1 from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m. in Thief River Falls, featuring local entrepreneur Brady Meunier. Hear how Brady transitioned from a 10-year career in law enforcement to co-owning Northstars Construction, Northstars Properties and Energy on Main. Learn about his journey into entrepreneurship, the realities of business ownership, and the importance of flexibility, family, hard work and community involvement. TREK is free and open to everyone.

read more
Small Businesses Have Big Impact

Small Businesses Have Big Impact

Small businesses have a big impact on Thief River Falls and Pennington County. Across Minnesota and the nation, small businesses create jobs, support families, strengthen local economies, and keep dollars circulating close to home. This Advance Thief River blog highlights national and state small business statistics while adding a local lens on entrepreneurship, business ownership, and the important role small businesses play in building a strong, resilient community.

read more
Building the Future: Cole Dazell Shares a Story of Resilience and Innovation at TREK

Building the Future: Cole Dazell Shares a Story of Resilience and Innovation at TREK

At June’s TREK program, Thief River Falls native and Neon Forge founder Cole Dazell shared his inspiring journey of overcoming a life-changing spinal injury to build a successful digital marketing and web design business. Attendees learned valuable insights on branding, website strategy, accessibility, and the importance of adapting to today’s digital economy. Cole’s story of resilience, innovation, and entrepreneurship offered practical lessons for business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.

read more