NEWS & UPDATES
On this page, we feature a variety of news and information, everything from economic developments to business success stories.
Here you will find breaking opportunities and news on development, as well as a strong dose of inspiration. If you don’t want to miss a blog post, make sure to subscribe to our newsletter, using the form to the right.
Ashton Mowing Service: Father-Son Business
The journey that started with a request for a dirt-bike and a snowcat led to the launch of this successful father-son business.
River Falls Ranch at TREK
Neil and Nicole Peterson farm near St. Hilaire, MN. Together with their children, they are the 3rd and 4th generation on the farm.
Restaurant Revitalization Fund
SBA opens applications for Restaurant Revitalization Fund
An Absolutely Amazing Journey
Jordan Espeseth grew up in Thief River Falls. He raced snow cross during his growing up years, right up until the age of 17, “I always thought I was going to go into snow cross professionally, but after my junior year of high school I...
All Hands On Deck
Brenda Hamre, and daughter Avery, shared the story of BlackBarn at the March 2, 2021 TREK. BlackBarn is a new business in the Thief River Falls area. They opened their doors in November of 2020, offering a unique, rural shopping...
Bringing the Fun
Steve and Ladora Dahlen started Baker Street Sales back in 2005 with a small $1,200 food vending trailer that provided food at area farm auctions. When they had a successful event, they put the money back into the business and continued to...
When You Come in You’re a Friend
Kim Rosendahl talked about his entrepreneurial journey at the February 2, 2021 TREK. He moved to Thief River Falls in 2003, where he took a position at Dakota Clinic, which has since transitioned to Sanford Thief River Falls Medical...
Drew Erickson “Rocks” TREK
Drew Erickson, owner of Solid Rock Financial, was a presenter at the January 5, 2021 TREK. He talked about his growing up years in Thief River Falls, and the secure, stable home that his mother and father provided. "Not only did they...
Joe Kezar’s Music TREK
Joe Kezar presented at the January 5, 2021 TREK. He has owned and operated a business in Thief River Falls since 1991. Joe has successfully navigated the many changes that have impacted the industry over the past 30 years. When asked what...
Trusting Her Gut
The story of Lisa Robson’s entrepreneurial journey began in 1993, when her mom and Diana “Granny” Josephson bought “Lon’s Bar and Pub.” Soon after purchase, they renamed it the “Evergreen Eating Emporium.”
Finding His Passion
All things considered, Blake Kuznia was an unlikely restaurateur. He was young and lacked experience in the food service industry. After finishing high school in Thief River Falls, he left for Duluth for a couple of years…
Gracewin Development
Advance Thief River Director, Michelle Landsverk, interviewed Lisa Anteau of GraceWin Living, to learn about their new housing development coming to Thief River Falls. This development will increase the housing supply and provide a new...
Fourth Generation Business
Derek and Stacy Lee are fourth-generation owners of Lee Plumbing and Heating. At the November 3 TREK, they shared the story of their entrepreneurial journey and business philosophy…
An Entrepreneur at Heart
Terry Blacklance has been an entrepreneur since as long as he can remember, but it wasn’t until 2012 that he decided to pursue his lifelong dreams of owning his own business. Together with his wife, Tammie…
Lees and Blacklances to Present at TREK November 3
Thief River Falls, MN—October 30, 2020: Two Rivers Entrepreneur “Kinnection,” or TREK, will host its second gathering on November 3. While TREK’s first meeting was held online, via Zoom, the November 3 meeting will use a hybrid format—a physical gathering at River...
“The tremendous work ethic, innovation and commitment of the people here in northwestern Minnesota is unsurpassed. Those values have always been a clear differentiator in driving Digi-Key’s growth and success within our industry.”
“Thief River Falls has been a wonderful place to own a business. I have received an abundance support from the other entrepreneurs in the community! I love how it doesn’t feel like we are competing, but helping each other however we can.”
218-280-1755
Michelle Landsverk
Economic Development
Advance Thief River
PO Box 773
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
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