Starting a business at age 18 takes courage. Growing it into a multi-location business operation takes persistence, discipline, and the right support system. That’s exactly what Hunter Custer has done with Custer’s Cones & Candy.
Featured in our latest Local Cents podcast, Hunter shares his journey from launching his first location as a teenager to now operating multiple sites, managing concessions at local games, and preparing to open yet another location.
What’s especially notable? Hunter bootstrapped his first business — then reinvested earnings to fuel growth.
Now, as he is looking to expand again, he’s taking the next step: purchasing a building for his new location, with Pillar Bank as his lending partner.
Hunter credits much of his success to surrounding himself with trusted advisors. “We have a great partner in Pillar Bank. If I have a question, I call. Working with good people we can depend on is so important,” he says.
Through his relationship with Neil Mathwig, Market President at Pillar Bank’s Chippewa Falls office, Hunter gained more than financing — he gained guidance. “Neil asked me questions I never thought of and pointed me to resources like the Eau Claire Small Business Development Center, which helped with financial projections.”
Hunter’s story is a powerful reminder that successful businesses aren’t built alone. They’re built with the right mindset, smart reinvestment, and partners who help you see what’s possible. And yes, his passion for the business shines through, especially when it comes to ice cream (ask him about the fan-favorite flavor 🍦).
🎧 Tune in to hear the full customer success story and gain insights for aspiring business owners.