After a decade in business, Proof Artisan Distillers has plenty to celebrate—but also plenty to navigate. While the Fargo-based distillery prides itself on using local ingredients, its bottles come from elsewhere, and ongoing supply chain uncertainty has made sourcing them a challenge. Meanwhile, shifting alcohol trends have pushed Proof to adapt, including partnerships like its collaboration with heavy metal band Motörhead. For founder Joel Kath, the key lesson is clear: success in spirits isn’t just about distilling—it’s about smart branding and staying ahead of the curve.
Editors Note: Why does this matter in Minot? We share a steady diet of small scale economic development that’s quietly at work in North Dakota. It’ starts as tiny businesses that find success through local niches and savvy leadership. This is the model of economic development Minot and North Dakota needs to pursue. Swinging for grand slams and multinational value added food producers is an all or nothing wager. When it comes to how local economies develop, small ball produces better, more sustainable results.