North Dakota’s Entrepreneurial Efforts Are Not Frozen!

Just to name a few:
A collaborative effort hosted by Senator Kent Conrad and Agricultural Commissioner Roger Johnson, Marketplace for Entrepreneurs was held at the Bismarck Civic Center. The need for Marketplace erupted in 1989 because the economy was rough and the state needed a venue to offer support. Now the event showcases the entrepreneurial spirit with workshops, booths, talent, and student involvements. Booths from all over the state exhibited their services, including Katie Mehrer, our Business Challenge Coordinator. Others included the community of Williston, MadCat—modern modular custom cat furniture, Hometown Aditude –a marketing firm working to market products and communities, and CinCity Designs—a car customization company whose entire work staff is under the age of 30.

Dickinson Bull Days, held at Stockmen’s Livestock exchange, celebrated their 10th year anniversary. The Dickinson Chamber hosted the event which identified agricultural entrepreneurs’ product. Consignors from three states—Montana, South Dakota, and North Dakota, displayed their pen of yearling bulls despite the weather and inclement roads. Bulls are displayed in pens and then paraded through the ring highlighting consignors livestock and ranch details. Bull bucks and door prizes were given out to those attending. Bull bucks are dollars that can be used to buy a bull from the consignors that were present at the event. Bismarck will be holding their Bull Showcase this Saturday, January 24, at Farmers’ Livestock Exchange.

Strom Center employees, Sandy Bertelsen, Katie Mehrer, and I traveled to Williston on Monday to speak at Williston’s teachers’ in-service. Along with Maeve MacSteves, WSC Entrepreneurial Program Coordinator, the group talked about entrepreneurial education. Free resources, websites, and opportunities were presented in two presentations, K-8 and 9-12. The presentations were hosted by Williston’s HomeTown Competitiveness.

For any additional information on these events, please contact Amanda Lynn Moser by phone (701-483-2830) or email Amanda.Moser@dickinsonstate.edu .