News and Stories
Latest News & Stories
Klasen’s Greenhouse: A Year-Round Destination
Join TREK on January 6 from 8:30–9:30 AM for an inspiring entrepreneurship presentation by Kade and Ricki Klasen of Klasen’s Greenhouse. Learn how this family-run Minnesota greenhouse grew from a small side hustle into a year-round business with nine greenhouses and popular seasonal attractions. TREK is a professional development and networking series highlighting real-world business growth, innovation, and leadership in Northwest Minnesota.
North Star Neighbors: A Lasting Housing Solution for Northwest Minnesota
North Star Neighbors is expanding affordable homeownership opportunities in Northwest Minnesota through a community land trust model that keeps homes affordable for generations. By separating land ownership from the home and sharing appreciation at resale, the program balances wealth-building with long-term community stability. Learn how the model works, who is eligible, and how to explore available homes through North Star Neighbors.
Promise Act Grants Available
The second round of the PROMISE Act Grant is now open in Northwest Minnesota, with applications accepted through January 30, 2026. Review eligibility requirements, application materials, and additional information in this blog post. This competitive program is not first come, first served, giving applicants time to prepare strong submissions. All applications are submitted online, and assistance is available through the PROMISE Act inquiry form. Businesses and nonprofits are eligible for funding.
Building Strong Foundations: How One Entrepreneur Turned Community Need Into a Growing Business
Falls Pressure Washing LLC founder Sam Lemky delivers reliable, integrity-based exterior cleaning services in Thief River Falls. His journey reflects resilience, faith, and community commitment. Sam will share his entrepreneurial story at TREK on December 2, offering insight into building a purpose-driven business grounded in strong values.
Spotlight on Local Entrepreneur: Paula Peterson to Speak at TREK
Join us Tuesday, November 4, 8:30–9:30 AM at the Old Carnegie Library in Thief River Falls for TREK, featuring local entrepreneur Paula Peterson. Hear her inspiring story of business growth, learning, and community impact. Hosted by Advance Thief River. Coffee and conversation provided—everyone welcome!
Turning Transitions Into Transformations: Alex Nordlund at TREK
Join us for TREK on October 7 as we welcome Alex Nordlund, founder of Braveheart Strengths and a new member of the Thief River Falls community. Alex has spent over a decade coaching leaders and teams to lean into their strengths, delegate wisely, and collaborate across differences. Her insights will inspire you to turn transitions into true transformations—in work, leadership, and life.
Upcoming Events
Building Strong Foundations: How One Entrepreneur Turned Community Need Into a Growing Business
Falls Pressure Washing LLC founder Sam Lemky delivers reliable, integrity-based exterior cleaning services in Thief River Falls. His journey reflects resilience, faith, and community commitment. Sam will share his entrepreneurial story at TREK on December 2, offering insight into building a purpose-driven business grounded in strong values.
Spotlight on Local Entrepreneur: Paula Peterson to Speak at TREK
Join us Tuesday, November 4, 8:30–9:30 AM at the Old Carnegie Library in Thief River Falls for TREK, featuring local entrepreneur Paula Peterson. Hear her inspiring story of business growth, learning, and community impact. Hosted by Advance Thief River. Coffee and conversation provided—everyone welcome!
Turning Transitions Into Transformations: Alex Nordlund at TREK
Join us for TREK on October 7 as we welcome Alex Nordlund, founder of Braveheart Strengths and a new member of the Thief River Falls community. Alex has spent over a decade coaching leaders and teams to lean into their strengths, delegate wisely, and collaborate across differences. Her insights will inspire you to turn transitions into true transformations—in work, leadership, and life.
Advance Thief River to Host First Ever Welcome Week
Thief River Falls will host its first-ever Welcome Week, September 12–19, 2025. The weeklong celebration features cultural events, local business tours, food, music, and family-friendly activities. Designed to foster belonging and connection, Welcome Week invites all residents and newcomers to celebrate community spirit.
Advance Thief River
Mailing Address
PO Box 773
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
Office
By Appointment Only
Spark Hub
(Inside Garden Valley Building)
1412 3rd Street West
Thief River Falls, MN 56701
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