Case Story

Revitalizing Rural North Dakota

City of Grafton, ND

Founded in 1881, the City of Grafton is located in northeast North Dakota and is home to just over 4,000 people. The area was first settled in the 1870’s by Thomas E Cooper, and had an influx of new residents as it was targeted for expansions of the Northern Pacific Railway and the Great Northern Railway.

The City of Grafton is an incredible place to live and play, but their population has been steadily decreasing over the years, and a lack of workers is slowing down future growth.

City officials were frustrated and discouraged. They are doing everything they can to bring folks their their city, but there is still more to do.

It’s wrong they feel that way. That’s where we came in! The City of Grafton approached Tellwell Story Co. to do a full brand refresh, website, and impact film to reinvigorate their city, bring new folks in, and show how proud the current residents are to live there.

Hero’s Journey

First and foremost, we needed to help the City of Grafton create their “brand story”.

At Tellwell, we use an adapted and simplified version of Joseph Campbell’s hero’s journey to create a brand story for our clients. We did this with the City of Grafton, positioning their citizens as the hero and the city as the guide that helps them reach amazing success.

“Here in Grafton, we know that you want to pursue a rewarding career and provide a fulfilling life for your family, all in a community where you feel safe, welcomed, and valued. The challenge is that it seems the opportunities and amenities you are looking for can only be found in a larger city, where you feel overwhelmed, isolated, and unfulfilled.

You don’t have to feel this way, because there is a place right here in North Dakota where you can access the big city opportunities and amenities you need while enjoying the small-town comforts, conveniences, and community you love.”