Wyoming has been ranked as the No. 1 entrepreneurial state in the nation, with Sheridan County emerging as the most entrepreneurial area within the state, Cowboy State Daily reports.
According to US Census Bureau data, Wyoming leads with 283 new businesses per 100,000 residents so far in 2024. Sheridan County stands out, where 51% of residents are self-employed, creating a vibrant entrepreneurial culture.
In Sheridan, entrepreneurship is woven into the fabric of the community. From cafes to gyms, local business owners like Candace and Matt Kindred are part of the entrepreneurial wave. Initially coming to Sheridan for traditional jobs, the couple was inspired by friends who encouraged them to start their own venture. They are now launching three Teriyaki Madness franchises, beginning in Sheridan and expanding to Gillette and Casper.
Candace noted that the supportive, close-knit community in Sheridan fosters an entrepreneurial spirit.
“If you win, we all win,” she said.
This collaborative culture has helped many small businesses succeed, from bike shops to candle stores.
Sheridan’s business-friendly environment, along with the support of local networks, has helped make it a hub for entrepreneurship. Local shop owner Megan Stanislaw, who runs WYO Candle Co., attributes Sheridan’s success to the strong community support for small businesses, highlighting local shopping events and business challenges that promote growth.
