Local Businesses Compete for Huge Cash Investment

Two local businesses, Knuckle Biscuits and Sam and Jeff’s, have been selected as finalists for the Great Northern Development Corporation 2018 Minnow Tank Business Plan Competition. The live finale of the competition will be held on Saturday, Sept. 22, at the Cottonwood Inn, where two prize packages of $5,000 will be awarded to a start-up business finalist and an existing business finalist.

Knuckle Biscuits, a start-up business finalist spearheaded by Connie Boreson, is a dog treat business. “When I retired from the Health Department, I wanted to do something that added value to the brewery while also having my own path,” said Boreson. Her all-natural dog treats are made from the spent grain left over from making the famous beer at the Busted Knuckle Brewery. “It’s all about reduce, reuse, recyle,” said Boreson. The sugars are removed from the grain so all that is left is the protein and fiber and then Boreson adds additonal flavors such as peanut butter. The treats are available for purchase at the Busted Knuckle for anyone that would like to try this up-and-coming treat.

Sam and Jeff’s, an existing business finalist owned by Sam and Jeff Knodel, located at the former Sam’s Super Club building, 307 Klein Ave: a relaxing place where friends converge for conversation, enjoy good drinks, and can even devour a famous Eugene’s Pizza delivered right to their table. Sam and Jeff’s will be competing against other finalists including Baby Got Back BBQ, from Roosevelt County; CEG Sports, from Sheridan County; and Wheatland Lodge, from Daniels.

Both Boreson and Knodel had to compete to be a finalist by completing the first phase, which consisted of submitting a business plan. After all the business plans were received, the GNDC choose two finalists from Roosevelt, Valley, McCone, Richland, Daniels and Sheridan County, to present a live-pitch to a panel of judges, which will also include the audience.

The event is open to the public and tickets will be $10 a person, which includes a drink and appetizers. Tickets can be purchased in advance by calling 406-653-2590 or at the door. The doors will open at 3:30 p.m., and the live pitches will start at 4 p.m.