Wyoming has officially claimed the title of the No. 1 entrepreneurial state in the United States, according to recent data from the U.S. Census Bureau. At the heart of this entrepreneurial spirit lies Sheridan County, where an impressive 51% of residents are self-employed. This thriving hub of innovation and business growth is a testament to the power of community support and collaboration among local entrepreneurs.
The Entrepreneurial Wave in Sheridan
It’s impossible to walk through Sheridan without bumping into an entrepreneur. From coffee shops to gyms, the spirit of entrepreneurship is infectious. People like Candice and Matt Kindred are perfect examples of this vibrant atmosphere.
A Journey to Entrepreneurship
Candice and Matt moved to Sheridan for traditional jobs—Matt in the oil and gas industry and Candice managing a local automotive dealership. They had no plans to start a business until they immersed themselves in the community.
- Friendship and Inspiration: Their social circle quickly introduced them to entrepreneurial conversations. Surrounded by business owners, the idea of owning a venture began to resonate.
“It was the entrepreneurial spirit that encouraged us,” Matt reflects. “Everyone here is invested in each other’s success.”
Identifying a Gap in the Market
During a casual conversation with friends who owned a bike shop, the Kindreds explored what Sheridan needed.
- Health-Conscious Choices: They identified a lack of fast-casual, healthy food options. Inspired, they decided to pursue a franchise opportunity with Teriyaki Madness.
They’re not just stopping at one location in Sheridan; they plan to expand to Gillette and Casper within the next few years.
Supportive Community: The Key to Success
The Kindreds have found immense support in their journey. Local entrepreneurs are eager to share their experiences and knowledge, fostering an environment of collaboration.
- Learning from Peers: They consulted with local business owners, including the Java Moon coffee shop owner, to gain insights into running a successful establishment.
“I asked for a temporary job at Killy’s Smokehouse to learn the ropes,” Candice shares. “In return, I’ll mentor them for their future plans.”
This spirit of mutual support is pervasive in Sheridan, where the mantra is clear: “If you win, we all win.”
Realising Dreams Through Community Connections
Calie LeDuc, co-owner of the Sheridan Bicycle Co., reflects on her entrepreneurial journey.
- Moving Back Home: LeDuc and her husband returned to Sheridan, initially for family reasons. They soon realised the abundance of opportunities available.
“When we decided we wanted to open a bike shop, our friends rallied to help,” LeDuc recalls.
Their community connections provided critical resources, including financing and a perfect location.
Starting a Business Made Easy
One significant advantage of launching a business in Wyoming is the simplicity of the process.
- User-Friendly Regulations: Starting a business involves just a few steps on the Secretary of State’s website to obtain your EIN and file necessary documents.
LeDuc’s experience highlights this ease: “It’s straightforward to get started here. The support and encouragement from the community make it even easier.”
A Culture of Collaboration
Next to the bike shop is WYO Candle Co., owned by Megan and Dwight Stanislaw. Their success is also rooted in community support.
“I knew Sheridan was entrepreneurial before it was officially recognised,” Megan states. “People genuinely want to support local businesses.”
Their journey began with a simple fundraiser. After receiving overwhelming interest in their candles, they realised they had a viable business idea.
A Strong Network of Entrepreneurs
Participation in local events, such as startup challenges, has further strengthened the entrepreneurial community. Megan and Dwight’s involvement in the now-discontinued 307 Impact startup challenge introduced them to a network of supportive entrepreneurs.
- Shared Experiences: “There’s a strong sense of community here,” Megan adds. “People prioritise shopping local and supporting each other’s ventures.”
Building a Life Without Traffic Jams
Annie Magera, who runs Carroll’s Furniture, has witnessed the growth of entrepreneurship in Sheridan firsthand.
“Sheridan has always had a strong business foundation,” she notes. “But it’s more than that; it’s about the community’s heart.”
Living in a small town has its perks, such as avoiding traffic jams. This fosters a lifestyle where community members are interconnected, often leading to business opportunities through personal relationships.
Embracing the American Dream
Chuck Magera, Annie’s husband, emphasises the welcoming nature of Sheridan.
“Sheridan invites you to bring your ideas and celebrate each other’s successes,” he says. “The mindset here is that there’s no glass ceiling.”
For entrepreneurs, this community focus encourages risk-taking and hard work, making it easier to reap the rewards of their efforts.
Conclusion: A Thriving Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
Wyoming’s ranking as the No. 1 entrepreneurial state and Sheridan’s prominence in that landscape demonstrate the power of community support. With nearly 51% of residents self-employed, the entrepreneurial spirit in Sheridan is palpable.
The stories of the Kindreds, LeDucs, and Stanislaws highlight how friendship, collaboration, and a willingness to support one another can turn ideas into thriving businesses.
This is not just about individual success; it’s about a community that believes in collective growth. If you’re considering entrepreneurship, you might just find that Sheridan, Wyoming, is the perfect place to turn your dreams into reality.
