Hangar X Studios

Marketing a Drone Company in 2025


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In this episode of Hangar X Studios, host John Ramstead welcomes Cassidy Will, founder of Labradorly Marketing, to discuss her journey from recent college graduate to a rising entrepreneur at the heart of North Dakota’s UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) ecosystem. Cassidy shares how her roots in Grand Forks, a fortuitous internship, and a web of community connections led to the creation of her boutique marketing consultancy, now serving key players in the drone and VTOL space.

The conversation delves into the intricacies of marketing within the UAS sector, the pivotal role of events like Verticon and Exponential, and how Cassidy helps early-stage companies like Meadowlark and The Hive build strategic visibility. Packed with insight into the unique business climate of North Dakota and the fast-evolving aerospace innovation landscape, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, marketers, and aviation professionals alike.

Episode Highlights:
  • Cassidy’s unexpected journey into entrepreneurship during COVID-19

  • The origin story of Labradorly Marketing

  • Key differences in marketing strategies for UAS compared to traditional sectors

  • The strategic role of industry conferences in aerospace growth

  • How Grand Forks and The Hive are fostering innovation in North Dakota

  • Cassidy’s vision for the future of her business and consulting in the UAS space

  • Key Points with Timestamps:
    • [00:00:00] Cassidy reflects on her original post-college career expectations and her surprising turn toward entrepreneurship

    • [00:01:42] Launching Labradorly Marketing from an internship and community mentorship

    • [00:02:54] Explanation of The Hive as a UAS-focused tech accelerator and Cassidy's marketing role there

    • [00:04:11] The complexity of marketing in the UAS industry due to multi-sector client types

    • [00:06:14] Meadowlark’s branding phase and the importance of early-stage strategic visibility

    • [00:06:44] Why UAS conferences like Verticon and Exponential are business-critical for deal-making and growth

    • [00:08:23] Cassidy’s love for the Grand Forks business climate and its support for young founders

    • [00:10:30] The unique entrepreneurial ecosystem in North Dakota and how it’s evolving

    • [00:10:56] Cassidy’s aspirations to expand her consulting services and stay involved in UAS marketing

    • Guest Bio:

      Cassidy Will is the founder of Labradorly Marketing, a boutique marketing and consulting firm based in Grand Forks, North Dakota. A University of North Dakota graduate, Cassidy launched her company in 2021 during the pandemic, drawing on her experience with local startups and the UAS community. Labradorly specializes in strategic marketing for emerging aerospace and drone companies, with clients including The Hive and Meadowlark. Beyond execution, Cassidy focuses on helping pre-revenue and scaling companies navigate messaging, industry positioning, and brand-building.

      https://www.linkedin.com/in/cassidywill/ 

      About Labradorly Marketing

      Labradorly Marketing is a boutique marketing and consulting firm based in Grand Forks, North Dakota, specializing in strategic brand development for startups and emerging companies, particularly in the UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems) and aerospace sectors. Founded by Cassidy Will, the company offers tailored marketing strategies, digital content, and branding support designed to help businesses gain visibility, build credibility, and engage the right audiences. With deep ties to the local innovation ecosystem, Labradorly Marketing bridges the gap between technology and communication, helping clients grow from early-stage vision to market presence.

      Notable Quotes:

      “It was never in my plan to be an entrepreneur. I didn’t know how. It seemed just daunting, honestly.” – Cassidy Will

      “The Hive is the connector between university, the city, state officials, capital, and companies. It really is one-of-a-kind.” – Cassidy Will

      “Conferences in the UAS industry are not just for brand awareness — it’s where deals get done.” – Cassidy Will

      “There’s a misconception that you have to leave North Dakota to find opportunity. I’m living proof that’s not true.” – Cassidy Will

      “I think I’d like to lean more into the consulting side and work with as many innovative businesses as I can.” – Cassidy Will

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      Hangar X StudiosBy John Ramstead