The most famous slide in Fargo A TEDxFargo Recap Ciara Stockeland: Queen of Overstock
2016
Business
Survival
guide
august 2016 Volume 1 Issue 8
Fargo INC! is published 12 times a year and is available at area businesses and online at fargoinc.com
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CREATIVE
Editorial Director Andrew Jason
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Editor Nate Mickelberg
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Meet the Team
Michael In Memoriam S
potlight Media suffered a significant loss on July 16, 2016. Michael Buchanan, Bison superfan, colleague and, most importantly, a great friend, passed away peacefully in his sleep. Although the loss hit many of us differently, the memories that have flooded our thoughts and prayers encompass everything that Michael was: a good-hearted soul who lit up every room into which he stepped. He never failed to make us smile and feel like we were important to him in one way or another. For many of us at Spotlight Media, whenever Michael took a step out of the elevator and rushed to greet us with the big
news of the day, we couldn’t help but put down whatever we were doing to soak up the joy of his presence. Michael’s Halloween costumes were always the best, and no one could ever love the Bison as much as he did. And man, he could sure dance with the best of ‘em.
MIKE
BRENT
BOUGIE
MICHAEL
BRITTNEY
NICOLE
TRACY
ERICA
JESSE
ANDREW
JOE
SARAH
PAUL
HEATHER
NATE
SAM
RYAN
TANK
LAUREN
LAURA
JENNY
Michael affected us all in different ways. With a big and contagious smile, hard highfive and enthusiastic hug, he could turn your day around with the bat of an eye. We would like to send our sincerest condolences to the Buchanan family and to the people who Michael touched throughout his short 34 years with us. Rest easy, old friend.
To learn more about Spotlight Media, go to spotlightmediafargo.com
RYLEE
CONTENTS COVER STORY
AUGUST 2016
ADDITIONAL CONTENT
12
Editor's Note
Why we want the Business Survival Guide to be your go-to desktop reference for everything Fargo business.
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No mo' chores
Unfortunately, the amount of time we have for chores is inversely proportional to how busy we are. Thankfully, these three FM companies are here to pick up the slack (and the dirty laundry).
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We want you to be an Emerging Leader Past the startup stage and not quite sure what direction your business is headed? The Small Business Administration has an executive training program for you.
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35
TEDxFargo recap
FARGO INC!'S 2016 BUSINESS SURVIVAL GUIDE
This one-stop-shop is your field guide for all things business in the Fargo-Moorhead professional community, from events to organizations to resources and everything in between. Whether you're new in town or a card-carrying networker, the Survival Guide has something for everyone.
ON THE COVER
Featured on this month's cover is Ryan Courneya, an account executive at Newman Outdoor Advertising in Fargo. Before joining Newman last year, Courneya served as a senior district executive with Boy Scouts of America. He's also active in the FMWF Chamber of Commerce's Young Professional Network (YPN)—even being featured in the December edition of YPN's "One to Watch," has been a member of Fargo Rotary for four years and serves on the PR committee for Lake Agassiz Habitat for Humanity. 10
AUGUST 2016
Emerging Prairie's Marisa Jackels recaps the seventh annual TEDxFargo, which saw nearly 2,000 attendees who heard from 25 speakers across the country on a variety of topics that all centered around one theme: acceleration.
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Hidden value: activating underutilized urban space in Downtown Fargo Kilbourne Group's Mike Allmendinger writes about how one vacant downtown building is being temporarily reappropriated in unique and exciting ways
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Yay for YEA!
Recruiting is now underway for a FMWF
Chamber of Commerce program that lets middle and high school students experience running their very own business or social movement.
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Ciara Stockeland: Queen of Overstock
Local retail entrepreneur and MODE Founder Ciara Stockeland wants to open 75 stores in the next 10 years and she says she might not be thinking big enough.
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Office Vibes: Discovery Benefits
It's Google...It's Facebook...No, it's Discovery Benefits! How one Fargo company brought Silicon Valley culture to the Silicon Prairie.
80
Events Calendar
The State of Technology, Business After Hours, FargoConnect and many more great business events that you can't miss in August.
86
Proper preparation pivotal
Go Fargo Jobs' Rick Berg dishes on five common interview mistakes he sees when he's hiring.
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Take it from me
There's a lot of jobseeking advice out there. Integreon U.S. Recruiting Manager Holly Thingelstad tells you which to heed and which to ignore.
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Career Section
Two full pages of positions at some of the best local companies to work at.
Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography
EDITOR'S NOTE
Handy Dandy Handbook
businesspeople. This 21-page field guide is a one-stop-shop for all things business in Fargo-Moorhead, from events to resources to organizations and everything in between.
It's often said that "ignorance is no excuse in the information age," and frankly, there's some truth to that. At a time when you can video chat with someone in India in real-time or learn everything you ever wanted to know about pufferfish at the push of a button, there's probably no reason you can't find a professional networking event down the street if you really want to. The trite but true fact remains, though: we're all just really busy. Whether you're a startup entrepreneur, a small business owner, or a young professional, you probably don't have the time or the inclination to stay up-to-date on every organization in town that you could join, every meetup you could attend or every tax incentive you could take advantage of. And that's where we come in. Fargo INC!'s 2016 Business Survival Guide is the first edition of what we hope will be a yearly, can't-miss resource for FM
nate@spotlightmediafargo.com
Whether you're a transplant looking for a crash course on the Fargo business community or an industry veteran, the Survival Guide has a little bit of something for everyone, and we think it will make a great desktop reference for all of your local business needs. While we believe we've compiled an extensive and useful reference here, it should be noted that this guide is not intended to be comprehensive. A guide that includes every last organization, nonprofit and resource in Fargo-Moorhead is beyond the current scope of the Survival Guide, though we'd love to get there someday. And while feedback is always appreciated, this month especially we would love to hear from our readers about any and everything else they'd like to see in the guide going forward so that we may continue to improve it for years to come. Enjoy!
Nate Mickelberg Editor, Fargo INC!
NateMickelberg
linkedin.com/in/natemickelberg
BUSINESS
MS. SIMPLICITY A
little less than 10 years ago, Melissa Schmalenberger was on vacation with her husband and realized something: she didn't like her job. She had her own family law practice in town and, as she puts it, "was part of the problem." So she started asking around—to family, friends, anyone who knew her well—and bluntly asked them what she was good at. Their response was nearly unanimous: organizing. When she realized it was something she could turn into a day job, she made it her personal and professional mission to help Fargo-Moorhead de-clutter and, as the name of her business suggests, live more simply.
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BUSINESS
Q&A Your alter ego is MS. Simplicity. Where'd that come from? MS. SIMPLICITY: I think simplicity is what everybody is striving for. It's one of those words that people can picture in their head. I think it's a universal message for people to live with less, but how do you live with less when you have three kids who have art projects that you can't throw away or else they'll hate you forever. It's kind of about
helping parents deal with that guilt and just the craziness of life.
The idea of a professional organizer is probably a little foreign to most people. What exactly do you do? MS: A lot of people may have seen the show 'Hoarders,' but that's not what I do. That's a different specialty. That's a mental health issue.
I come in and help the overwhelmed business professional and parent kind of get control of their lives and put systems in place to help them be more efficient. I think people are becoming more and more aware of what professional organizers in our community can do for them. A lot of the clutter is in our head, and that's what I'm sifting through. It's not that your house is a mess. People get that they're messy, but it's not because they're lazy. There's some other block that's going on. And we try to get to the bottom of that. They don't know that when they hire me. They think I'm just going to come in and help them clean their house. That's not what I'm doing.
clients say that my voice is now on their shoulder, kind of like a little angel or devil, challenging them. And I have little rules. For example, if I'm working with somebody in their closet and they're just overwhelmed with clothes, I say to them, 'Now that we've organized your clothes, in order to keep a handle on this, we're going to implement the 'one-in, one-out' rule. If you buy a new shirt, you have to go home and pull one out of your closet.'
What niche are you targeting with your services?
MS: Probably the busy professional. And it's even hard to book them because I only work in the afternoons Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday. I don't do weekends because
In addition to her organizing work, Schmalenberger is also an avid writer, even penning her own e-book that helps people get a handle on that messiest of rooms in their home: the kitchen. It's available for $2.99 on Amazon.
What would a sample workflow look like, starting with your initial interaction with a client?
MS: A lot of people want a free estimate, and I don't do that. What I do is I block in three-hour blocks of time because anything more than that is overwhelming. I book them for one session, and we decide if we like working together. I go in and create systems so that they never have to call me again. I don't want this to take five hours every week. That's not my goal. My goal is to service as many people as I can as quickly as I can. And that doesn't mean I'm doing a rush job, but what I do with my clients is a transfer of information. I sit there, have them touch everything and ask them questions. 'Why did you throw that card in the garbage? Why did you keep that card?' And I keep asking them questions and get to the bottom of it.
You're "teaching a man to fish."
MS: My goal is that, when I leave, they can continue on without me. And a lot of my
you need to be distraction-free. Your kids need to be at daycare, your dog needs to be kenneled, whatever it is. My favorite clients are the ones who are 98 percent organized and they want that extra two percent. That challenges me. It's really easy for me to come in and organize clutter. But where someone's already superorganized and I get to take them to that next level, that's really fun.
MORE INFO Melissa Schmalenberger MS. Simplicity mssimplicity.com 701-799-2123 19
BUSINESS
W
hen Jeff Skinner and Jim Tinney were the casualties of a corporate layoff in Denver a little more than five years ago, they knew they were ready for a change. They packed up, hopped in their car and made a beeline for Fargo. They had a friend in the area and were intrigued by the job prospects the city offered, but mostly, as Skinner puts it, they were "closing their eyes and pointing their finger on a map." Tinney got a job at a trucking company, and Skinner, who says he "grew up cleaning," started cleaning houses to help make ends meet. Eventually, the two caught entrepreneurial fever and decided to start their own cleaning company, which they say is aimed at the higherend client, and in just a few years, have gone from pulling in around $75 a month to a client list north of 140.
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BUSINESS YOUR HOME MANAGER Home Helper Services is currently in the process of expanding their services to include what they call "home management." Skinner explains. "Most of our clients have lawn mowing service, pool service, gutter service and window cleaning," he says. "We want to find the best of those people in Fargo, aggregate all those services together and then provide a discount for all of our clients who utilize it. I think some people gravitate toward the novelty of it.
Why are you guys targeting the higher-end residential and commercial consumer?
SKINNER: It didn't start out that way. I was going to save hoarders when I moved here. My first client was a hoarder, and I couldn't handle that. It was just a little too much. Then we started cleaning semi trucks, which was nasty as well. So we backed off that. Then, we put an ad on Craigslist, one lady replied and it just grew from references from there. And it just happened to go the way of higher-end, and I think we're kind of glad that happened.
Q&A The thing that jumps out to me about you guys is, well, you're guys. You just don't see a lot of guys in the cleaning business.
SKINNER: I think it's what separates us from everybody else is that we're two guys. And really, that's what Home Helper is all about. We want to totally separate ourselves from all of these mom-and-pop cleaning shops around here. Because there are a lot of them. TINNEY: You get the older folks who kind of go, 'Oh, I never thought two guys would be here.' But it hasn't been a barrier. In fact,
"And we would actually run it for them. We would take on painters, construction guys, probably just smaller, self-starter businesses to kind of help them along. And all of a sudden, they'd have 20 clients, the clients would get a discount and everyone's happy."
The thing with our clientele is that we have to almost become experts on any floor type, counter type, wood type. The products we buy are pricier so you know you're going to get your money's worth. It's not just Pine Sol or stuff from Walmart.
TINNEY: There's a personal touch we bring. We'll take kids' toys and arrange them in different and funky ways, put sunglasses on them, make them hang from the rafters. One of our biggest clients said their kids would run home to go see what was changed in their room. And it was something they looked forward to, as opposed to, 'Okay, what was stolen this week?'
Also, we're not showing up in cars labeled with cartoon characters or bright colors. I don't think our clientele wants it broadcasted that they're having their house cleaned.
I'd imagine the higher-end client is a particular type. Does that present any unique challenges?
What are some of the specific challenges you guys have run into with your business model?
SKINNER: In the beginning, we were a little challenged by it. But they're just people. Do they have higher expectations? Yes. But so do we in our own house. So I think we can vibe off that.
TINNEY: They're more, 'I don't want to have to deal with this. I don't want to have to come back after you. I don't want to have to re-do it. I want you to come in and have the confidence that you guys are going to come in, not miss anything and everything is done.'
SKINNER: You have to be on your game. We're a little pricier, and they expect that. They expect a clean for their money. So it's a challenge every day, and we love it.
SKINNER: Finding the right employees. This market is so saturated with jobs, you get people who you hire on, and then they leave because they can just leapfrog to another job. We have a pretty good team now, but it's been a challenge in the past.
MORE INFO Home Helper Services, LLC homehelperservicesllc.com 417 Main Ave., Fargo 701-639-6520 21
BUSINESS
A
fter spending years as a stayat-home mom to her three boys, Emily Hearn decided it was time to "get back out there." With an all-toofamiliar knowledge of the time suck and hassle that separating, washing, drying and folding a family's worth of laundry can be, she wanted to give people another option. An option Fargo-Moorhead didn't have. Overloaded Laundry, a Moorheadbased pick-up and delivery laundry service that Hearn runs with her husband, Jason, was officially born in September 2015, and in less than a year, the couple is so busy that they're already close to hiring their first fulltime employees.
OVERLOADED LAUNDRY SERVICE 22
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Q&A It sounds like you've already kind of shifted your focus from who you thought your customers were going to be.
JASON: We were going to mainly concentrate on college campuses and kids living in dorms. And we did the research, thought that was the ticket and it wasn't. It's a lot harder to get college kids to part with their money than we ever thought.
JASON: We're the ones who control it. We know what's been in there before and whether it needs to be disinfected. And there's no laundromat that can get their water as hot as ours. We built these to mirror an industrial laundry so that things could be washed together and (people) could have no worries.
EMILY: They just don't have any. Now we're focusing on that median family with two jobs, two or three kids, involved in sports and that is just busier. We drop off and pick up, and we can even pick up at their work. They can just open it from inside their office, and we can grab it out of their car.
Was there really nothing like this in town before you guys?
EMILY: There was nothing that was pick-up and delivery. There are places that will do your dry cleaning, but that's going to cost you a fortune. We can pick up big baskets of laundry, and it costs $25-$30 instead of $150. We also provide the bags so it's nice and easy to hand off. We've also partnered with Camelot Cleaners so we can pick up and drop off your dry cleaning as well.
Are you washing different people's loads together?
EMILY: Yes, we have three huge, industrial machines, and they're just like the ones used in a hospital or hotel. It's the soaps that make all the difference, and there are more than 100 different settings. There's no crosscontamination. JASON: The water gets to 150 degrees so it kills everything. Nothing can survive. You're not getting your clothes washed in a laundromat washer and dryer. There are other places in town that will do wash-andfold, but they're laundromats and you have absolutely no idea what was in there (before). EMILY: They're not cleaned or disinfected. Ours are always spotless, are always clean and always smell good.
BYE-BYE, DISPOSABLES The Hearns also offer a separate service for cloth diapers, which they say are steadily growing in popularity across the country. Jason says that when you consider both the environmental impact of the 2,000 pounds of diapers one child contributes to landfills every year and the roughly $500 a family can save by going the cloth route, the decision's not a hard one. They provide everything, he says, from the diapers themselves to the covers and pail liners, as well the same pickup and delivery option they offer with standard laundry.
Your niche is a relatively new one. Why do you guys think this trend has emerged and people are willing to outsource more and more of their household chores?
EMILY: I think people are just that much busier. And they want to have some free time. I think Americans put in so many more hours than anywhere else and just don't have any free time when they get home. They want to go out to eat. They want to do something else.
MORE INFO Overloaded Laundry overloadedlaundry.com 218-422-6420 312 Highway 75 N, Moorhead
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2015 Emerging Leaders Graduate
Tony Kressin, TK's Welding
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Why he did it "I have a bachelor of science in construction management and that degree had some business classes with it but not a lot. I've been out of college 15 years, and a lot of things have changed. It seemed like it was at least worth a shot. And once I got into it, it ended up being probably the best program I've ever seen or heard of." The biggest benefit "Probably the single most useful part of the program was just the interaction among the group. We would sit around, and it was basically just a roundtable. It's very reassuring to know that other people are going through the same stuff that you are." Who should do it "The program is structured for people who have cleared startup hurdles. So I'd recommend it to the people who are there but just not quite there. Where they know they're about to bust loose but they just don't know how to get there."
PROGRAMS
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2015 Emerging Leaders Graduate
Tamara Anderson, Dale Carnegie of North Dakota Why she did it "It was a combination of the reputation of the SBA—when you partner with them, you know you're going to get a quality experience— and it was something that was time-tested in other markets. The differentiator for me was that it focused on the more operational aspects of the business: marketing, strategy and putting some of those pieces in place." The biggest benefit "I was really particularly interested in the operations aspect of it from a numbers perspective. Where before I'd been really focused on managing
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a team, leading sales efforts and doing facilitation. It was helpful for me to have some framework and some ways to analyze some of that and have a better idea of what I was looking for." Who should do it "I would recommend it to a business owner who's probably in years three through five. In years one and two, you're really just figuring it all out and it's go, go, go. And you're likely doing a lot of it yourself. So to be in a place where you can really sink your teeth into it would be great. To have some staffing in place so that you feel like the time you might spend away from the business in the class, that you can do it. And that you've got some structure in place. Because when you're building structure from the ground up, it might be hard to apply some of it."
EMERGING PRAIRIE
TEDxFARGO 2016
CALLS FOR ACTION AMIDST TIME OF UNREST
Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography
T BY MARISA JACKELS Lead Writer & Social Media Manager, Emerging Prairie
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he seventh TEDxFargo event was held July 21 at the Fargo Civic Center with more than 1,800 attendees and 25 speakers from all across the country. The event, which centered around a theme of acceleration, wove in urgent calls to action as speakers spoke about topics in the realm of TED: technology, entertainment and design.
Each of the talks addressed problems in the world today and how we can respond with solutions. Challenges such as wealth disparity, loneliness, disease, discrimination, sexual abuse, disability, and debt were countered with encouragement for systematic change, connection, cure, empathy, justice, strength and radical love. “During a time of change, unrest, and uncertainty, the concept of an ‘idea’ may be our most powerful tool to give all people the chance to live, love and contribute to the greatest planet in the universe,” curator
“Shallow words make us shallow and dumb,” said Cheryl Heller, founder of design lab CommonWise. “Deep words deepen us and teach us empathy.” Heller lamented the rise of “shallow writing” that she sees rampant on the internet, juxtaposing an example of a tweet with a line of prose from Charles D’Ambrosio and asking the audience which had a more profound impact. She noted that, over history, great leaders have recognized language as the root of change. Words, she said, are the most powerful tool we have to create change. “Let’s use them wisely,” she said. On a similar note, Kellam Barta, founder of NDSU Language Diversity Ambassadors, noted that how we say the things we say is not grounds for discrimination. And yes, he’s looking at you “BiZon” fans. On a greater level, he said, this mindset can impact our judgment of people from different regions, countries and backgrounds. “We need to stop using language variation as a reason to discriminate,” he said.
BUILD HEALTHY CITIES
Greg Tehven wrote in the program. While the talks varied from Millennial retention to medical advances in solving a skin disease, a few themes emerged throughout the day.
LANGUAGE IS KEY
In sessions one and two, we were taught a bout the importance of language and how the words we use directly impact the way we think.
There was also a theme around building healthy cities, both economically and culturally. The first speaker of the day, Ben Hecht, president and CEO of Living Cities, illuminated the reality of wealth disparity between white and non-white populations. With a four-step process, he outlined how this can change from the inside out within a city–steps such as using real-time data to see if solutions are working, engaging the right people and changing the way city hall works. But truly, change must happen inside out within a person first. It’s called individual behavior change, he said. “It requires each of us to have humility…to get up today and go do something about it.” Ian Abston talked about cities too, but from a
EMERGING PRAIRIE cultural perspective. He calls himself a millennial expert, although he draws a line between the “Oregon trail millennials and the virtual reality millennials,” he said. He spoke about what millennials are looking for in a city: good public schools, walkability, pet friendliness, and being great for young families.
TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF
The audience also learned the value of a healthy mentality as well, with speakers Kaitlin Hopkins, award-winning actress; Lissa Rankin; author of Mind over Medicine, and Bec Heinrich, leadership consultant. Hopkins prodded at the lack of mental health education, particularly in the entertainment industry where mental illness is prevalent. She asked the audience, “We check our blood pressure once a year. Why not our mental health?” Rankin, too, stated that mental and spiritual health is a key component to our overall well-being. Loneliness is the biggest threat to our health, she said, and fostering connections and “leaning in to relationships” are the correct medicine. To demonstrate, she asked everyone in the room to rise and hold hands with their neighbor. “This is medicine, people.” she said. Heinrich addressed another threat to mental health and that is a disease she calls “the disease of doing.” That being the push and pull many feel from the
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world to do, do, do. The antidote to this damaging pressure is one word: rest. “Rest is deep internal renewal,” Heinrich said, noting that leaders who are constantly giving need an equally constant process of refueling. “We need to slow down in order to accelerate.”
WHAT NOW?
These are only glimpses. Richard Wiese told stories from his travels and Julia Huffman called for a renewed reverence of nature and the wolf. The Minimalists questioned consumerist America, asking the audience, “What would your life look like with less?” And Fargo’s own Jack Wood shared how in the community garden he started to help bring food to impoverished families, it’s about “community, not charity.” The event concluded with Jim Hodge, a world-renowned master of fundraising, calling for change in philanthropy. “I believe a whole lot of shift has to happen for philanthropy to return to its purpose,” he said. Philanthropy is about dreams, not strategic plans, he said. It’s about compelling, not selling. It’s about abundance, not scarcity. “When we abandon the model of scarcity, we stop scheming on how to get a benefactor and start dreaming,” he said.
The event, which was organized by Annie Wood and Lindsay Breuler, curated by Emerging Prairie's Greg Tehven, and came to fruition with the help of more than 100 volunteers and sponsors, was hailed as another success by many attendees. Scott Holdman, cocreator of FundingLogic, claimed it was the “best one yet.” But the true success of an event built around the mantra of “ideas worth spreading” is in the aftermath. Now is when we see how the ideas presented on stage will be embodied in each of the hundreds upon hundreds of attendees, returning to their respective cities and countries. The rallying cry for the event might be summarized best in the closing line from Peter Reike, the first paraplegic man to conquer Mt. Rainier. “Choose to be the power for change,” he said. “If we each do this, then we can truly accelerate.” See you next year.
MORE INFO Emerging Prairie emergingprairie.com 122 1/2 Broadway N, Fargo
s u r v i v a l g u i d e
2016
BUSINESS SURVIVAL GUIDE
Looking for a 3D printing meetup? Curious about Women Connect? Wondering what tax breaks are available for your new startup? Fargo INC!'s Business Survival Guide has you covered. Whether you're brand-new to the FM business community or have been around for decades, our Survival Guide is a great jumpingoff point and desktop reference for all the business organizations, events and resources available to local professionals.
BY NATE MICKELBERG PHOTOS: J. ALAN PAUL PHOTOGRAPHY, EMERGING PRAIRIE, DAN FRANCIS PHOTOGRAPHY, HASH INTERACTIVE, PAUL FLESSLAND, FARGO VIRTUAL REALITY MEETUP, FARGO CASHFLOW GAME NIGHT MEETUP, MOORHEAD BUSINESS ASSOCIATION, GFMEDC, FARGO CONNECT, MISSION OF MERCY DENTAL CLINIC, FMWF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE, 20/20 FARGO, JENNY JOHNSON, ACCESS OF THE RED RIVER VALLEY, THE ARC OF CASS COUNTY, CCRI, LUTHERAN SOCIAL SERVICES OF NORTH DAKOTA, MSUM OFFICE OF DIVERSITY & INCLUSION, NDSU OFFICE OF MULTICULTURAL PROGRAMS, CONCORDIA COLLEGE OFFICE OF INTERCULTURAL AFFAIRS, NORTH DAKOTA OFFICE OF THE GOVERNOR
INSIDE THE GUIDE PG 36
ORGANIZATIONS & PROGRAMS
PG 44
EVENTS
PG 54
RESOURCES
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ORGANIZATIONS & PROGRAMS
the100.work
The 100's mission is to assist each of their members in the growth and prosperity of their respective ventures, through an exclusive network of like-minded CEOs and private-business owners, offering strategic ideas, peer-to-peer solutions and experienced support. the100.online
American Advertising Federation (AAF) North Dakota
AAF-ND is one of 210 local affiliates of the American Advertising Federation and includes clubs from Minnesota, North Dakota, South Dakota and Wisconsin.
20/20 Fargo
The club is open to anyone in a communication-related field. They are corporate communicators, public relations practitioners, journalists, freelance writers, designers and multimedia specialists, advertising sales representatives, musicians and printers. aaf-nd.org
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FACEBOOK.COM/20.20FARGO
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CEO Solutions
CEO Solutions is a limited and by-inviteonly group of CEOs, presidents and owners of small business who want to improve and grow their business, develop themselves and add value to the world around them. askhg.com/leadership/ceo
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20/20 Fargo is a group of young professionals that meets weekly with content based on learning, service and networking. They also host service events to benefit the local community, networking events to engage young professionals and entrepreneurs, and learning events open to the community.
Downtown Community Partnership
The goal of the DCP is to promote and expand Downtown Fargo as a preferred destination with a strong sense of place filled with vibrant culture, art and commerce and to be the signature destination that provides an extraordinary 36
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sense of place for those who call it home and a magnet for worldwide guests. downtownfargo.com
Emerging Leaders
The Small Business Administration's (SBA) Emerging Leaders initiative is a federal training initiative that specifically focuses on executives of businesses poised for growth in historically challenged communities. The initiative provides these executives with the organizational framework, resource networl and motivation required to build sustainable businesses and promote the economic development within urban communities. The Fargo program is one of more than 50 across the United States. sba.gov/about-sba/sbainitiatives
Emerging Prairie Emerging Prairie's mission is to connect and celebrate the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Fargo-Moorhead. They do so by operating a wide variety of events and initiatives such as Drone Focus, the Prairie Den coworking space, and 1 Million Cups Fargo which is the largest and most active 1 Million Cups program in the country. They also operate an online publication that highlights the region's entrepreneurs and innovators who are turning Fargo into a flourishing tech hub. emergingprairie.com
Fargo-Moorhead Convention & Visitor's Bureau
The FMCVB exists to promote FargoMoorhead-West Fargo as a destination for visitors, tour groups, business travel, conventions, sporting events and trade shows. That’s three cities. Two states. One refreshingly different community. fargomoorhead.org
Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce The Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce is a bi-state, regional federation of more than 2,000 private, public and nonprofit member firms representing nearly 100,000 people. The largest local chamber in North Dakota and Minnesota, the Chamber advocates for a strong metropolitan community and supports the interests of its members, which are located in Cass and Clay Counties and beyond. fmwfchamber.com
Fargo Rotary
The Fargo Rotary Club is proud to continue a tradition of service above self. This service above self is visible in the local community, in the region and internationally. Fargo Rotary strives to help the youth of the FM community through many projects. fargorotary.org
This eight-week Emerging Prairie program is open to interns working for any organization. Participating interns are put into small groups for weekly sessions that focus on developing soft skills, fostering friendships among the interns and engaging them in the community. In addition, there are also four large group sessions where interns hear from leaders in the community. emergingprairie.com/ intern-experience-fargo
Business Training Series FMWFCHAMBER.COM/TRAINING
develop the professional, personal and leadership skills of member employees. Networking events facilitate connections with thousands of others in the business community.
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The Chamber hosts a variety of exceptional events, each offering unique opportunities to employees of Chamber-member firms. Costeffective educational programs
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Institute for Business & Industry Development (NDSU)
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The goal of IBID is to help North Dakota businesses become more productive and competitive by improving quality, boosting sales, reducing costs and increasing productivity. Under the Center for Community Vitality, IBID serves as NDSU's "front door" and the first point of contact for accessing the specialized technical expertise available through the NDSU campus departments. ag.ndsu.edu/IBID
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Their long-term goals are to grow employment opportunities, the population and the tax base to strategically position communities and businesses to better compete in the global economy, to facilitate the creation of high-paying jobs for the FM area's largely underemployed workforce and to retain graduates of Fargo-Moorhead's institutions of higher education. gfmedc.com
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The mission of the GGFMEDC is to grow and diversify the economy in Cass County, N.D., and Clay County, Minn., through the attraction, retention and expansion of primary-sector employers.
The IDC aims to build the capacity of businesses and economic skills within the FM immigrant population, which ultimately leads to economic self-sufficiency. They bring immigrants together who have a common goal in caring about the well being of others and their environmental surroundings. They assist in microbusiness development that benefits both neighborhood and community development. idcfm.org
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Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC)
Immigrant Development Center
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ORGANIZATIONS & PROGRAMS
mentoring small business owners for more than 40 years. fargo.score.org
For more than 30 years, Leadership Fargo Moorhead West Fargo has connected and developed leaders who greatly impact the community through dedication and service. You will find their alumni holding prominent public leadership roles within the FM community and a host of others who actively serve the community every day as board members, diligent volunteers and dedicated employees. Each year, LFMWF selects 40 emerging and existing leaders from all sectors of the community to participate in the nine-month program. fmwfchamber.com/LFMWF
At the Technology Incubator, they work hard to create an entrepreneurial culture that fosters innovation and encourages ingenuity. As you seek to start your first or next entrepreneurial venture, the Technology Incubator can provide you with access to the programs and services you need to succeed. The state-of-theart facility will provide you with the professional image you desire as you focus on growing your business. ndsuresearchpark.com
Small Business Administration (SBA) North Dakota District Office
Moorhead Business Association (MBA)
North Dakota Trade Office (NDTO)
MBA fosters the growth of Moorhead business through advocacy, networking and information. The MBA was established by a body of Moorhead business owners from diverse industries and different parts of town. moorheadbusinessassociation.org
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Located on 55 acres, the NDSU Research and Technology Park is a place where university researchers and private industry can combine their talents to develop new technologies, methods and systems. ndsuresearchpark.com
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North Dakota Small Business Development Center (ndsbdc)- Fargo Regional Center
The NDSBDC helps individuals start, manage and grow their businesses through business plans, financial projections and budgeting, and loan packaging, among others. ndsbdc.org/fargo.cfm
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The NDTO is dedicated to expanding trade partnerships between North Dakota and the world. The Trade Office facilitates business between North Dakota’s global companies and their clients through programs and services, including the annual Big Iron Farm Show’s International Visitors Program. ndto.com
Prairie I/O
Prairie I/O aims to be the umbrella that encompasses existing tech meetups and events. They aim to be a resource that can help organize, finance and otherwise support other meetups, as well as a way for techies to meet and learn from each other. prairie-io.slack.com
The SBA's North Dakota District Office, working together with their extensive network of public and private resource partners, is dedicated to assisting the small business community and promoting economic development in the state of North Dakota. sba.gov/offices/district/ nd/fargo
Small Business Development Center (SBDC) - West Central Minnesota
Whether you’re just starting out, planning a new stage of growth or managing a current business, the SBDC offers resources tailored to your very specific needs and goals. You can meet with their consultants and/or attend their many events. Working in partnership with a variety of organizations in the region, they keep their fingers on the pulse of small business interests in Minnesota. offuttschoolofbusiness. org/sbdc
Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR)
SCORE Fargo
Fargo SCORE is a nonprofit association dedicated to educating entrepreneurs and helping small businesses start, grow and succeed nationwide. SCORE is a resource partner with the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) and has been
SBIR is a program of the US Government and is coordinated by the Small Business Administration (SBA). It's intended to help certain small businesses conduct research and development (R&D). Funding takes the form of contracts or grants. The recipient
ORGANIZATIONS & PROGRAMS
projects must have the potential for commercialization and must meet specific U.S. Government R&D needs. sbir.gov
UND Center for Innovation
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Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!)
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The Young Entrepreneurs Academy teaches high school students how to start and run their own real businesses. YEA! guides high school students through the process of starting and running a legitimate business or social movement over the course of a full academic year.
The Center provides assistance to innovators, entrepreneurs and researchers to launch new ventures, commercialize new technologies and secure access to capital from private and public sources. innovators.net
Village Business Institute (vbi)
VBI solutions include an employee assistance program, coaching, organizational development and strategic planning, workplace mediation, human resource consultation, critical incident stress management, management and employee training, career transition and outplacement services, and specialized services for nonprofits. thevbi.com
Women's Business Exchange (WBE)
WBE hosts events that provide an environment of leadership for today's professional women. Businesswomen are inspired to reach for and achieve their full
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professional potential through personal development, professional development, relationship-building, business-to-business mentoring and networking. facebook.com/WBEFM
Women Connect
The FMWF Chamber of Commerce's Women Connect program is focused on developing female professionals through sessions that focus on topics important to a woman’s professional and personal life. Women Connect addresses unique challenges that professional women face in today’s business environment and provide connections, inspiration and an opportunity to socialize with and encourage one another, tapping into the sense of community that women crave. fmchamber.com/women_ connect
Young Professionals Network (YPN)
Through the Young Professionals Network, you will have the opportunity to meet people you would never have otherwise met, learn about businesses you never would have known about and participate in events that you never would have known existed. You will have access to numerous business training programs and learn about the happenings in the community that will have an impact on your life. fmwfchamber.com/YPN
ORGANIZATIONS & PROGRAMS NONPROFITS & SERVICE CLUBS
Alex Stern Family Foundation
The foundation supports FM-area nonprofits through grants in the following categories: the arts, social welfare and human services, education, youth recreation, civic projects and health issues. alexsternfamilyfoundation. org
Better Business Bureau of Minnesota and North Dakota (BBB)
The BBB sets standards for ethical business behavior and monitors compliance, helps consumers identify trustworthy businesses, and sets standards for and evaluates thousands of advertisements each year. bbb.org/minnesota
Dakota Certified Development Corporation (Dakota CDC)
Dakota CDC provides unique and creative financing packages for small businesses. They collaborate with lenders, economic
development professionals and other partners to offer the SBA 504, USDA Rural Development IRP and other loan programs. dakotacdc.com
Dakota Medical Foundation
DMF leads initiatives that create a region of the healthiest people, build in the fundraising success of health-related nonprofits and invest in new ideas that can create widespread health improvement. dakmed.org
Dress for Success Red River Valley Dress for Success RRV works to empower women to achieve economic independence by providing a network of support, professional attire and the development tools to help women thrive in work and in life. redrivervalley. dressforsuccess.org
ORGANIZATIONS & PROGRAMS BUSINESS SCHOOLS
M State
minnesota.edu/programs/ business
NDSU College of Business
ndsu.edu/business
North Dakota State College of Science Fargo ndscs.edu
Fargo Lions Club
Lions meet the needs of local communities and the world. The 1.35 million members of this international volunteer organization in 206 countries and geographic areas are different in many ways but share a core belief: community is what we make it. fargolions.org
Impact Foundation
Impact Foundation offers resources that equip social and business entrepreneurs to accomplish their missions. They teach nonprofits how to master fundraising and businesses how to secure government contracts that deliver capital essential to their bottom lines, growth and job retention. impactgiveback.org
concordiacollege.edu The Kiwanis Club of Fargo is part of Kiwanis International, a global organization of volunteers dedicated to changing the world one child and one community at a time. Members of the Kiwanis family stage nearly 150,000 service projects, complete six million hours of service and raise nearly $100 million each year for communities projects. fargo.kiwanisone.org
Paseka School of Business - MSUM
United Way of Cass Clay
TrainND SE
mnstate.edu/ schoolofbusiness
Rasmussen College
rasmussen.edu/locations/ north-dakota/fargo
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ndscs.augusoft.net
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University of Mary Fargo
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From a historic community chest with a broad charitable mission, United Way of Cass Clay has evolved into a critical community convener that mobilizes their partners, including businesses, community leaders, public officials, residents and nonprofit organizations. unitedwaycassclay.org
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Junior League of Fargo-Moorhead is an organization of women committed to promoting volunteerism, improving the community through the effective action and leadership of trained volunteers, and developing the potential of women. Its purpose is exclusively educational and charitable. fmjrleague.org
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The FM Area Foundation is the community foundation for Cass and Clay Counties. They are a vehicle for long-term philanthropy and a mechanism for giving back to the community. A vast majority of their 250-plus funds are permanent, existing in perpetuity to meet the donor's wishes. They manage these funds, investing wisely and ensuring the donor's intent is always met. areafoundation.org
Offutt School of Business - Concordia College
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Kiwanis Club of Fargo
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EVENTS
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1 Million Cups Fargo
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Each week, the Moorhead Business Association (MBA) gathers at a Moorhead restaurant or bar (a different location each month) for 560 Connect meetings, which are less formal but still an excellent opportunity to get to know each other and talk business.
A weekly opportunity for local entrepreneurs to present and connect with the Fargo Moorhead community over caffeinated goodness and great ideas. 1millioncups.com/fargo
The ADDY Awards The American Advertising Federation of North Dakota's (AAF-ND) annual ADDY Awards program honors excellence in advertising and cultivates the highest creative standards. It is the only creative awards program administered by the advertising industry for the industry. aaf-nd.org/addy-awards
Business After Hours
Widely recognized as the region's most effective networking opportunity, Business After Hours creates and promotes business opportunities for everyone involved. The social atmosphere allows individuals to network with industry leaders, trade-show vendors and representatives of other organizations. fmwfchamber.com
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Cart Summit
If you live, play or work in the e-commerce world, this conference is for you! Come experience a day of learning and community to better yourself, your organization or just feed your passion for e-commerce. Cart Summit was created to bring industry leaders and enthusiasts together so that all may improve their practices in e-commerce. emergingprairie.com/cartsummit
ChamberChoice Awards
The ChamberChoice Awards program honors organizations that make our communities a better place to work, live, play and do business. Award winners are shining stars, exemplifying excellence through proven stability and/or growth, innovation, creativity, community leadership and achievements. Winners are announced in an afternoon of glitz and glamour in May during the ChamberChoice Awards Luncheon. fmwfchamber.com
E-commerce Breakfast
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Corporate Cup
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The Chamber's Regional Economic Outlook Forum is a networking and informational breakfast designed to provide member firms and their employees up-to-date information about how the economy is affected by various industries.
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This is the meetup to talk all things dronerelated with North Dakota’s leaders in the unmanned aerial system/vehicle industry. The meetup was started in 2015, and as North Dakota continues to establish itself as a hotbed for drone activity, attendance has continued to expand. emergingprairie.com/dronefocus-monthly
Economic Outlook Forum
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Join Emerging Prairie for E-commerce Breakfasts. All that is needed to attend is a passion or interest in the many niches of the e-commerce industry. Event is hosted by and takes place at different businesses around Fargo-Moorhead. emergingprairie.com/events
DroneFocus Conference
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The Corporate Cup is a series of competitive events promoting physical fitness and friendly competition among the business community. Teams battle for points in activities such as volleyball, basketball, tug-of-war and more. This event is open to all employees and fitness levels. fmwfchamber.com
EMERGINGPRAIRIE.COM/DRONE-FOCUS-CONFERENCE
DroneFocusCon is a world-class gathering of drone experts and enthusiasts in the heart of the Drone State itself. Join industry leaders, students, hobbyists and more as they discuss how drones are impacting North Dakota and the world.
Past presentations have included agribusiness, air service, arts and nonprofits, construction, commercial development, community diversity, education, healthcare, manufacturing, real estate, retail trade, tourism, transportation and others. fmwfchamber.com
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FargoConnect
The Chamber's Annual Meeting brings together the leadership and membership of the Chamber to celebrate the accomplishments of the past year and hear the vision for the future.
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As part of the Chamber’s public affairs and advocacy efforts, Eggs & Issues is a monthly event series that connects members with the most interesting topics, influential public figures and industry leaders to discuss the issues you care about.
It’s the perfect place for engaged community members to be in the know on current events in order to educate all and to help us power our community forward.
FMWF Chamber of Commerce Annual Meeting
FargoConnect gathers the best and brightest to not only talk about what’s going on with communication and technology but to help you lead the charge. Connect with experts, with innovators, with entrepreneurs, with artists, with marketers, with techies, with students, with Fargo. And beyond. fargoconnect.com
The event recognizes Chamber volunteer leaders and features the presentation of the prestigious Legacy Leader Award. Attendees enjoy an excellent meal and first-class entertainment. fmwfchamber.com
Founders Only Retreat
Fargo Game Jam
Over the course of a weekend, attendees meet at the Prairie Den in Fargo to brainstorm game ideas and assemble a team, and they have until Sunday evening to create a game. fargogamemakers.com
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Founders Only Retreat is to encourage founders to invest in themselves, create a support network and have some time away. emergingprairie.com/ event/founders-onlyretreat-2016/
Feminist First Friday
Join this group of the North Dakota Women's Network for fun, casual gatherings and meet other equalityminded folks in your area. Now in six communities: Bismarck, Dickinson, Fargo, Grand Forks, Minot and Valley City. ndwomen.org/events
Bismarck in March. The intent of the luncheons is to create a very intimate experience with audience participation and open discussion among the panelists about their experiences as women leaders of varying backgrounds. trainingnd.com/womenowned-business/nd-leadingladies-luncheons
Let's Talk Business
Giving Hearts Day
Giving Hearts Day makes space for charities to share their stories, connect with new givers and become skillful in a proven "friend-raising" system. It has become a gateway for people to connect to causes doing good work in areas they passionately care about.
dakmed.org/giving-hearts-day
Leading Ladies Luncheon
The Center for Technology & Business holds two Leading Ladies Luncheons annually to Celebrate Women’s History Month featuring women panelists representing a variety of historic roles in the state. The luncheons honor women who have made an impact on the history of North Dakota and are held in Fargo and
Meet like-minded neighbors and colleagues with similar goals and aspirations for the Moorhead business community. Each week, the Moorhead Business Association (MBA) meets at the Fryn’ Pan Restaurant on Highway 10 in Moorhead, where they conduct their “Let’s Talk Business” breakfast meetings. Each week, a different speaker from a local or regional business, school or nonprofit shares valuable business strategies and opportunities. MBA members also share news and ideas with each other. moorheadbusinessassociation. org/about/benefits
Midwest Mobile Summit
The Midwest Mobile Summit is a two-day conference that connects the public with mobile strategy and mobile technology pioneers across the nation. Conference keynotes, breakout sessions, and case studies will give attendees the tools to create and execute mobile strategies, ultimately keeping them ahead of the curve. midwestmobilesummit.com
EVENTS
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Military Appreciation Night
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TEDx is a program of local, selforganized events that bring people together to share a TED-like experience. At TEDxFargo, TEDTalks video and live speakers will combine to spark deep discussion and
connection in a small group. The TED Conference provides general guidance for the TEDx program, but individual TEDx events, including Fargo's, are self-organized.
Honor our region’s military through a fun, family-friendly night of baseball and patriotism. fmwfchamber.com
Off the Clock
Procurement Fair
Businesses interested in doing business with government agencies and prime contractors are encouraged to attend this procurement fair, which offers educational procurement classes, as well as an opportunity to meet with representatives from federal, state, commercial/prime contractors and service providers. Come explore the opportunity to expand your business, increase your sales and diversify your market. sba.gov/offices/district/ nd/fargo
Women's Business Summit Join the Chamber for a monthly networking opportunity. Mingle with friends, new and old alike. Appetizers are provided and drinks are on your own. fmwfchamber.com
Operation Thank You
Each January, gracious volunteers hand-deliver more than 2,100 packets of new membership materials to member doorsteps. Through volunteers, the Chamber personally thanks people for their valuable contributions and continued support of the FMWF business community. fmwfchamber.com
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Bringing together women from across North Dakota and the region for intense training, networking, business growth opportunities, personal development, professional focus and of course...fun! trainingnd.com
EVENTS
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Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) Investor Panel Shark Tank
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Startup Drinks is a monthly event hosted by Emerging Prairie with the sole purpose of connecting the community. Each event is free and includes scrumptious appetizers from local caterers—with vegan and
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gluten-free options. There’s also a cash/credit bar with local brews and wine.
A panel of 12 investors from local businesses will hear pitches from local middle school and high school students in a competition based on ABC's "Shark Tank" series. fmchamber.com/m/YEA
Young Professionals Network (YPN) New Member Social
New to YPN? Thinking about joining YPN? Then this event is for you. Connect with new and current members, learn more about the program and all the ways that you can be involved. YPN always make time to do some networking so don’t forget your business cards. fmwfchamber.com/YPN
State of the Cities
State of the Cities is a unique opportunity to hear overviews directly from top city leaders. Mayors from Fargo, Moorhead, Dilworth and West Fargo review city accomplishments, outline future goals and objectives, and take part in a panel discussion about current business and community issues and activities. fmwfchamber.com
Voices of Vision
Held annually in November, the Voices of Vision Speakers Series brings nationally recognized leaders from all walks of life, all political persuasions, opinion leaders, political leaders and business leaders, past and present. All to provoke thought, discussion and healthy debate in the Fargo-Moorhead area. Hosting nationally recognized speakers will bring visibility to our region and showcase our high quality of living in a vibrant business community. fmwfchamber.com
EVENTS MEETUPS
Bitcoin Meetup
This group meets to discuss ways to help promote Bitcoin throughout the city of Fargo. alarson@myriadmobile.com
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Cart Monthly
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Girl Develop It Fargo GIRLDEVELOPIT.COM/CHAPTERS/FARGO
It can be intimidating for women to learn and ask questions when they are an extreme minority. While open and welcoming, today's budding developer community is more than 90 percent male. There isn't a comfortable place where women can learn at their own pace and not be afraid to ask "stupid questions."
Girl Develop IT decided it was time to provide a place where all questions are okay and everyone can learn in a supportive environment. Their courses focus on coding, leveraging existing technology and having something to show for it (AKA building websites).
Are you an e-commerce pro? This is the meetup for you. Cart Monthly is a monthly meetup where professionals in the e-commerce world gather to eat breakfast and talk trade. Sometimes it’s omelets and mimosas, sometimes pancakes and orange juice. But it’s always good. emergingprairie.com/cartmonthly
Cass-Clay Subcontractor Sales & Marketing Meetup Are you a progressive owner of a subcontracting firm? Are you interested in utilizing technology to deliver end-user customers a better new construction and/ or remodeling experience? If you answered "yes" to the previous two questions, this group may be for you. meetup.com/Cass-ClaySubcontractor-SalesMarketing-Meetup
Data Science and Big Data - Red River Valley
This is a group for anyone interested in discussing big data applications and technology and related topics such as high performance and cloud computing. The group meets to build community, jump-start big data projects, and provide venues and events around these topics. meetup.com/Red-RiverValley-Big-Data-MidwestBig-Data-Hub-Meetup
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Fargo 3D Printing Meetup This meetup talks all things related to 3D printing and additive manufacturing. From those who have built (or are building) their own 3D printer to those who use a machine daily for their work, this meetup is for you. meetup.com/Fargo-3DPrinting-Meetup
Fargo Cashflow Game Night
This is a group that gets together once or twice a month to play the board game CASHFLOW...for money! Everyone brings a couple of bucks, and the winner gets the pot. This adds a lot of fun to the game and makes it more real. The idea is also to meet new people around town interested in investing. meetup.com/Fargo-CashflowGame-Night
Fargo Game Makers
A place to connect with current or aspiring game designers, creatives and engineers in the FM area. fargogamemakers.com
The Fargo-Moorhead Real Estate Investing Meetup
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Mobile isn’t just a thing, it is The Thing. Mobile technology is changing the world. Join this meetup to network and get insights into the newest innovations. All are welcome. meetup.com/Fargo-MobileTech-Meetup
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Fargo-Moorhead Content Strategy
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The Fargo and Moorhead Entrepreneurship Meetups are members of the Collaborative Entrepreneurship Network, a global ecosystem of investors and entrepreneurs working to help early-stage startups. As investors and former entrepreneurs themselves, they believe that both innovators and investors can learn from each other and make meaningful connections and relationships. meetup.com/en-AU/FargoEntrepreneurship-Meetup meetup.com/MoorheadEntrepreneurship-Meetup/
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Fargo and Moorhead Entrepreneurship Meetups
This is a membership organization with local chapters that meet once a week, focusing on the Master Network's curriculum and vision. Join a group of business owners who meet to network and inspire each other to be great. Building relationships through networking is their focus, but they are powered by education and training. They encourage and are built on referrals. meetup.com/MasterNetworks-Fargo-BusinessReferral-Group/
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This is a group for anyone interested in real estate investing and finding other like-minded individuals. It's not a high-pressure, sales-pitch group but instead a networking group meant to grow investors' knowledge of the markets in the area. The main goal is to provide people the opportunity to find other team players in the FM area. It can be difficult finding your next deal, partner, or handyman, and this group will certainly open some doors. meetup.com/The-FargoMoorhead-Real-EstateInvesting-Meetup
Master Networks – Fargo Business Referral Group
MEETUP.COM/FARGO-MOORHEAD-CONTENT-STRATEGY
Passionate about online content? Based in the Fargo-Moorhead area? This meetup is for you. Join other content nerds for regular discussions on strategy, trends, best practices, tools, professional development and more.
Fargo Virtual Reality Meetup
Fargo Virtual Reality Meetup is a community bonded by a mutual fascination in virtual reality and augmented reality. Everyone is welcome to the meetup. meetup.com/Fargo-VirtualReality-Meetup
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CITY & STATE
City of Fargo
City of West Fargo
City of Fargo
City of West Fargo
cityoffargo.com 701-241-1310
Business Resources
cityoffargo.com/Business Here you will find: ··Bidding on city projects ··Business incentives ··Business property tax exemptions ··Licensing ··Permits and codes ··Resources ··Storefront and downtown grants ··Vacant lot maintenance
Startup in a Day
cityoffargo.com/Business/ StartupinaDay
westfargond.gov 701-433-5300
Business Resources
Economic Development and Community Services westfargond.gov 701-433-5311
State of North Dakota
Business Resources
Economic Development Association of North Dakota
Moorhead Economic Development Authority cityofmoorhead.com 218-299-5442
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Women's Business Center
mnchamber.com
sba.gov/starting-business
trainingnd.com
Minnesota Trade Office mn.gov/deed/business/ exporting
Minnesota Waste Wise Foundation
Women's Leadership Program
ndchamber.com
wbdc.org/MN
Minnesota Workforce Center
mn.gov/deed/job-seekers/ workforce-centers
mnenergysmart.com
Rural Minnesota Concentrated Employment Program
GROW MINNESOTA! mnchamber.com
Hiring Minnesota Heroes
ndsbdc.org
Leadership Minnesota
ndwomen.org
Minnesota Women's Business Development Center
Energy Smart MN
North Dakota Small Business Development Center (SBDC)
North Dakota Women's Network
mnwastewise.org
State of Minnesota
ednd.org
Greater North Dakota Chamber of Commerce
Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development
mn.gov/deed
TRAININGND.COM
City of Moorhead
cityofmoorhead.com/ business Here you will find: ··Starting, expanding or relocating your business ··Licenses and permits ··Incentive programs ··Commercial and industrial properties ··Development services ··Organizations and resources ··Business directory ··Studies and reports
Minnesota Chamber of Commerce
westfargond.gov/Home/ Business Here you will find: ··Economic Development Department ··Commercial property tax exemptions ··Economic Development Advisory Committee ··Licenses ··Renaissance Zone ··Business incentives
City of Moorhead cityofmoorhead.com 218-299-5166
Starting a Business in North Dakota
mnchamber.com/grow/ hiring-minnesota-heroes mnchamber.com/connect/ leadership-minnesota
rmcep.com
Starting a Business in Minnesota mn.gov/deed/business/ starting-business
US Small Business Administration (SBA) of Minnesota
sba.gov/offices/district/ mn/minneapolis
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701 Angel Fund
The 701 Angel Fund is a Certified North Dakota angel venture capital firm that invests in determined entrepreneurs and high-growth opportunities. Their fund works in unison with other investors in the region in order to maximize the exit potential of their portfolio of startup investments. 701angelfund.com
Arthur Ventures Growth Fund
This is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in business-to-business (B2B) software companies. arthurventures.com
Linn Grove Ventures
Linn Grove invests in early- and mid-stage life science companies with outstanding technology. It is active in providing strategic financing and business leadership to help innovative companies move beyond the business incubator and accelerator phases to the next level of growth. linngroveventures.com
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Bank of North Dakota (BND) New Venture Capital Fund
This fund provides funding for early-stage companies that can show clear proof of completed product development and market acceptance as evidenced by growing sales. BND invests in a variety of technologies and types of businesses, including North Dakota Department of Commerce strategic-target industries of valueadded agriculture, technology, advanced manufacturing, energy and tourism. They also invest in growth and laterstage manufacturing and service businesses with profitable growth potential. bnd.nd.gov/business/ venture-capital-fund
Dakota Venture Group (DVG)
DVG is a University of North Dakotastudent-run venture-capital investment fund founded in 2006. The group manages multiple funds and utilizes a vast network of industry expertise in its due-diligence research and investment decision-making. dakotaventuregroup.com
Milestone Growth Fund
The Milestone Growth Fund invests in minority-owned businesses in early and expansion stages with proven track records. milestonegrowth.com
Minnesota Angel Tax Credit
Minnesota's Angel Tax Credit provides a 25-percent credit to investors or investment funds that put money into startup companies focused on high technology, new proprietary technology, or a new proprietary product, process or service in specified fields. The maximum credit is $125,000 per person, per year ($250,000 if filing jointly). The credit is refundable. Residents of other states and foreign countries are eligible. mn.gov/deed/business/ financing-business/taxcredits/angel-tax-credit
North Dakota/Minnesota EB-5 Regional Center
ND/MN EB-5 aims to stimulate economic development, create new jobs, and improve regional productivity through direct foreign investment in North Dakota and Minnesota. ndmneb5.com
Thomas, McNerney & Partners
Thomas, McNerney invests in pharmaceutical, medical device, biotechnology and diagnostic service firms. tm-partners.com
Valley Angel Investment Fund Valley Angel Investment Fund is an angel investment group headquartered in Grand Forks. As part of RAIN Source Capital’s RAIN Fund Network, they are able to share prosective deals with the entire network to collectively raise all or a good portion of capital companies are looking for. valleyangelinvestmentfund. weebly.com
RESOURCES
TAX INCENTIVES & CREDITS
These and more can be found at gfmedc.com/business/stayexpand/incentives/ taxes-exemptions-credits Angel Fund Investment Credit
An individual, estate, trust, partnership, corporation or limited liability company (LLC) is allowed an income tax credit for investing in an angel fund in North Dakota.
Automation Tax Credit
An individual, estate, trust, partnership, corporation, or limited liability company (LLC) is allowed an income tax credit for purchasing machinery and equipment for the purposes of automating a manufacturing process in North Dakota.
Border Cities Enterprise Zone
Qualifying businesses that locate or expand in Dilworth or Moorhead are eligible for tax reductions under the Border Cities Enterprise Zone legislation.
Corporate Income Tax Exemption
Newly established primary sector businesses or expansions of existing primary sector businesses are eligible for a five-year exemption from North Dakota state corporate income taxes. For business expansion, the exemption applies to the increase in corporate income attributable to the expansion project and related to North Dakota revenues.
No Personal Property Tax North Dakota exempts all personal property from property taxation.
Property Tax Exemption A qualifying project may receive a complete or partial exemption from ad valorem taxation for up to 10 years on
new or existing buildings or structures used in the qualifying project. Land is not exempted. Buildings in a tax increment financing (TIF) district are not eligible for the property tax exemption.
Sales & Use Tax Exemption
North Dakota provides sales tax exemptions for equipment and materials used in manufacturing and other targeted industries. A new or expanding plant may be exempt from sales and use tax on purchases of machinery or equipment used for manufacturing, ag commodity processing or recycling. An expanding primary sector business may also be eligible for an exemption for purchases of computer and telecommunications equipment that is an integral part of the business. The exemption does not extend to the purchase of replacement equipment.
Seed Capital Investment Tax Credit An individual, estate, trust, partnership, corporation or limited liability company is allowed an income tax credit for investing in a primary-sector business.
Workforce Recruitment Credit
A business that employs extraordinary recruitment methods to recruit and hire employees for hard-to-fill positions in North Dakota is eligible for a credit equal to five percent of the compensation paid during the first 12 consecutive months to an employee hired to fill a hard-to-fill employment position and is allowed in the first year following the year in which the employee completes the 12 consecutive month employment period.
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FINANCE PROGRAMS
These and more can be found at gfmedc.com/business/ stayexpand/incentives/ finance-programs
Bank of North Dakota (BND)
As the only state-owned bank in the nation, BND is able to take a unique approach to assisting businesses by joining private and public resources. BND offers the following financing options for primary sector businesses. bnd.nd.gov ··MATCH Program ··PACE Program ··Beginning Entrepreneur Loan Guarantee Program ··Business Development Loan Program ··Value-added Agricultural Equity Loan Program
Growth Initiative Fund (GIF)
The GIF is a revolving loan fund managed and administered by the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (GFMEDC). A portion of the GIF’s funds are available for projects targeted at the emerging sectors identified in the Cass Clay Economic Plan. Projects will be considered on a case-by-case basis. gfmedc.com
Innovate ND
Innovate ND provides access to beneficial venture tools, online entrepreneur education and extensive resources. If you are a North Dakota-based entrepreneur or innovator working on a new concept, you may be eligible for the program. An entry fee of $250 gains you access to $2,500 of resources through a certified North Dakota entrepreneurial center. Funds can be used to create your business plan, prototype development, coaching, and consulting and marketing assistance. innovatend.com
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North Dakota Department of Commerce, Economic Development and Finance
The North Dakota Department of Commerce, Economic Development and Finance provides financial packages, tax incentives, research for local and community economic development organizations, and support and information for economic development around the state. commerce.nd.gov Here you will find: ··North Dakota Development Fund ··Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) ··Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC)
North Dakota New Jobs Training Grant
The North Dakota New Jobs Training program captures the North Dakota state income tax withholding generated from individuals filling new job positions— identified in a New Jobs Training Agreement—for up to a 10-year period starting from the effective date of the Agreement.
North Dakota Opportunity Fund
The Opportunity Fund leverages private financing to help small businesses and manufacturers attain the loans and investments needed to expand and create jobs. A consortium of 38 municipalities across North Dakota has received funding for operating the loan participation program. The municipalities in Cass County are Casselton, Fargo and West Fargo. Loan funds can be used for construction, equipment, working capital, real estate and interim SBA 504 loans. lewisandclarkrdc.org/ programs/nd-opportunity-fund
Operation Intern
A primary-sector business that employs interns is eligible for matching funds of up to $30,000 per legislative biennium. A match of up to $3,000 per intern is available. Employers must select student interns that are: ··Enrolled in a North Dakota college or university taking at least six credits during the internship or in the semester prior to the internship ··A high school junior or senior ··A student enrolled in a registered apprenticeship program A company may request to hire a student attending an institution that closely borders North Dakota if the company demonstrates the need for additional candidates. workforce.nd.gov/workforce/ OperationIntern
Small Business Administration (SBA) Loans & Grants
sba.gov/loans-grants/seewhat-sba-offers Here you will find: ··Surety Bonds ··Microloan ··Venture Capital Program ··General Small Business Loans: 7a ··Small Business Investment Company (SBIC) ··504 Loans
Wells Fargo Women Business Owners Loan
wellsfargo.com/biz/women_ diverse_business/women
RESOURCES JOB-SEEKER SERVICES
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Agencies expresspros.com 1100 19th Ave. N R-1, Fargo 701-297-8800
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Express Employment Professionals
Kelly Services
kellyservices.com 4501 15th Ave. SW, Fargo 701-281-4850
Prairie Staffing Concordia College Office of Intercultural Affairs
Fargo Startup House
concordiacollege.edu/ directories/officesservices/interculturalaffairs
Rent and utilities are provided for promising, tech-focused entrepreneurs who wish to live and build their startups in Fargo. Also provided are private bedrooms, fiber-optic gigabit internet services, mentoring and professional services. Interested applicants can apply at any time. fargostartuphouse.com
Cultural Diversity Resources
Prairie Den
culturaldiversityresources. org
Nestled in Downtown Fargo right on Broadway, this former century-old bank is now a vibrant space for coworking and events pumped with gigabit internet, stocked with free coffee and a full kitchen to boot.
MSUM Office of Diversity and Inclusion
Step inside “The Den” and you’ll see some members working hard at individual desks while others chat together, scribbling ideas on the whiteboard walls. These folks are everyone from bankers to developers to artists to entrepreneurs. This is the place for all these people to come together. theprairieden.com
mnstate.edu/diversity
prairiestaffing.net 1323 23rd St. S, Fargo 701-893-3067
Preference Personnel preferencepersonnel.com
2600 9th Ave. S, Fargo 701-293-6905
Spherion Staffing spherion.com 2730 7th Ave. S, Fargo 701-298-8300
Sites Better Fargo Jobs betterfargojobs.com
NDSU Office of Multicultural Programs
ndsu.edu/multicultural
New Americans Lutheran Social Services of North Dakota
lssnd.org/humanitarianservices/new-americans
Roll-A-Ramp
rollaramp.com
NDSU A. Glenn Hill Center (STEM Building)
This state-funded building houses classrooms, labs, and study areas, with a focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics-related courses, known as STEM. The three-story, 109,000-square-foot structure is designed to enhance student learning through state-of-the-art classrooms and labs. The structure features modular, openframe flexible classrooms that range in size from 24 seats to an auditorium that seats 300. ndsu.edu/directory
Northern Plains Unmanned Aircraft Systems Test Site
One of six Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) unmanned aircraft systems (UAS) test sites nationwide, the Grand Forks site provides immediate access to uncongested airspace statewide and can be custom-tailored to support your research. They also offer a state grant program to match funds industry-academia research and a fully staffed team of UAS aviation experts. npuasts.com
Go Fargo Jobs
gofargojobs.com
Job Service North Dakota jobsnd.com
Jobs HQ
jobshq.com
North Dakota Oil Jobs ndoiljobs.com
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FMWF CHAMBER OF COMMERCE PUBLICATIONS
fmwfchamber.com/chamber_publications.php
Physical Publications
innovate and grow, the entire community will benefit.
The Bridge
The Chamber's monthly printed newsletter features updates on public affairs work, events, and activities of the Chamber, as well as helpful business tips, member news and community events. This award-winning publication is delivered the first working day of each month to nearly 3,000 businesses and community leaders.
Metro Map
Every other year, the Chamber produces a new, full-color map to reflect FargoMoorhead's incredible growth and showcase the community as a beautiful, progressive area in which people can work, shop, live and raise a family. It is distributed to residents, visitors, industrial and business prospects, new residents and those seeking more information about the FM community.
Electronic Communications Advocacy in Action
The Chamber is dedicated to studying the issues affecting our members at a local, state and federal level. The Advocacy in Action e-newsletter is distributed by email on an as-needed basis. The e-newsletter alerts members to issues affecting their business and highlights the work of the Chamber’s Government Affairs Program.
The Bridge Download
At the top of each month, this electronic notification lets you know that the Chamber's monthly newsletter is ready for download and provides a direct link.
Chamber Events Metro Profile & Member Directory
An annual publication distributed to all Chamber members, as well as several local business organizations. Chock full of statistics, the Metro Profile highlights all that the metro area has to offer for residents, prospects and visitors. Further, the profile and directory features a categorical listing of all its members, putting business information at the fingertips of business and community leaders.
Everything you need to know to keep on top of the Chamber calendar
The eBridge
The Chamber's electronic events bulletin is emailed every Monday to more than 8,000 subscribers and provides information about upcoming Chamber events and programs, welcomes new members and recognizes sponsors.
Making Connections Public Policy Guide
It is a priority of the Chamber to advance and advocate for pro-business public policies at all levels of government. They recognize that when economic conditions are favorable for the private sector to 60
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The Making Connections e-newsletter serves the membership of the Chamber's Young Professionals Network (YPN). Providing program and events information, business tips for success, and profiles of YPN members, Making Connections is published monthly.
RESOURCES
RESOURCES
GUIDES & DIRECTORIES
LEGISLATION
FMWF Chamber of Commerce Fingertip Directory
fmchamber.com/business_ fingertipdirectory.php
Small Business Administration (SBA) - ND District Office Resource Guide
sba.gov/offices/district/ nd/fargo
Local, Regional & State Government Officials
fmwfchamber.com/community_ live_govt.php
The Affordable Care Act and Business healthcare.gov/smallbusinesses
Joint Employer
dol.gov/whd/flsa/ jointemployment.htm
The Overtime Rule
dol.gov/featured/overtime
DOWNTOWN
HIDDEN VALUE:
ACTIVATING UNDERUTILIZED URBAN SPACE IN DOWNTOWN FARGO
By Mike Allmendinger • Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography & courtesy of Kilbourne Group
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ach historic renovation and infill project Kilbourne Group is fortunate to be part of in Downtown Fargo is unique. Many structures built at the turn of the century have good bones and adaptable attitudes. Taken care of, the buildings can be molded to match modern needs while retaining the historic value that gives Downtown Fargo its unique personality. Many majestic buildings were lost to urban renewal and left behind surface parking lots scattered throughout the urban neighborhood, leaving missing teeth in the streetscape. Mike Allmendinger General Manager, Kilbourne Group kilbournegroup.com 210 Broadway N, Fargo 701-237-2279
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#1 Texas Q BBQ set up their food truck in the parking lot in early June.
Red River Market is open Saturdays from 10 a.m. 2 p.m., July 9 -October 29.
#2
The corner of Fourth Avenue North and Broadway in Downtown Fargo was once home to the Fargo Mercantile Company, a wholesale grocer that constructed a four-story brick building in 1909. As area columnist Andrea Halgrimson wrote in the July 28, 2013, issue of The Forum of Fargo-Moorhead:
fitted with quarter-sawed oak and steel ceilings. I give these details to emphasize the tragedy of razing such a building.
“The Renaissance-style structure was designed by Hancock Bros., a Fargo architectural firm. The local contractor was J.H. Bowers.
Today, the corner is recognizable to many as the former Schumacher Goodyear store, which was built in 1967 and still stands with its trademark blue walls. Schumacher vacated the space in January 2016. Without immediate redevelopment plans for the site, Kilbourne Group recognizes that a vacant building can degrade walkability and
Except in the basement, which was used for storage, hard maple flooring was installed throughout. Company offices were
I remember the building looking like a fortress on the corner, seeming like something that would last forever. It was razed in 1966.�
DOWNTOWN NEXT
PROGRAM
Take a stroll to the corner of Fourth Street North and Sixth Avenue downtown for another example of activation of underutilized space. Folkways and neighbors continue to transform this former gas station into an urban park and community space. Follow the progress of Sudden Park at suddenpark.com
#3 A big thank you to all who helped make this project a reality; JLG Architects and Syncorp, Inc. of Fargo, in collaboration with the City Planning Department, Fargo Fire Department, City Inspections and the City Health Department. Thanks to Livewire Entertainment Media Services for their donation of the incredible audio and stage lighting setup to support the live musicians. Another special thank you to Notorious Signs for adding art to the space. create unsafe space in an otherwise active neighborhood. So this summer, Kilbourne is celebrating the space before returning it to its historic roots as a walkable, mixed-use building at one of Downtown Fargo’s most active intersections. Due to the hard work of a number of local organizations, the 409 Broadway corner has come alive with craft beer, a food
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Fargo Mercantile Company building at 401403 Broadway, 1909
truck, a farmer’s market, local theater groups and live music. The collaboration, energy, and passion these groups have brought to the space have created brand new, unique experiences in Downtown Fargo:
· Hand to God by Robert Askins. Performances in March and April 2017. Punchgut had a one-night art exhibit in late May, with plans to appear again this summer. Many other artists are also considering pop-up shows in the space.
• Fargo Brewing Company created the Brews on Broadway pop-up patio for serving up their local brews on Saturdays this summer with live music and patio games. The space is available for your event, too. Also, a big thank you to Barbacoa for their involvement.
Potential abounds for this strong corner on Broadway in Downtown Fargo. The site was identified by City of Fargo parking consultants as a prime strategic location for the development of a mixed-use parking garage. It is surrounded by vibrant retail and restaurants and established residential spaces. Kilbourne Group is excited to embark on the journey of gathering ideas for this corner from the community, exploring design concepts, and creating an infill development that meets the goals of the GO2030 Fargo Comprehensive Plan and that future generations can be proud of.
• Experience Blur performed their summer show “The Great American Trailer Park Musical” in last month. • Theatre B will begin its 2016-17 Season at 409 Broadway in September: · How the World Began by Catherine Trieschmann. Performances in September and October 2016 · Inspecting Carol by Daniel Sullivan. Performances in November and December 2016
If you are interested in using the pop-up space this summer, go to kilbournegroup. com/contact-us and let us know. We’d love to hear from you.
PROGRAM
In 2014, The Chamber announced that we would bring the Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!) to our community. YEA!, which started at the University of Rochester (NY) in 2004 with support from the Kauffman Foundation, has been gaining national momentum over the last few years, and we were eager to bring it here. Our local YEA! program is the first in North Dakota and one of very few in the Upper Midwest. YEA! students from across the nation have been achieving professional success before they even graduate high school, and we felt strongly that students in our region should have the same opportunity, especially considering the way our community embraces entrepreneurship.
By Craig Whitney
YAY FOR YEA!
Calling all young entrepreneurs!
Craig Whitney is the president and CEO of the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce.
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s many readers of this magazine likely know, Fargo is a hub for technological innovation and has an incredible entrepreneurial spirit. At the Chamber, we’re continually impressed with the energy and talent that comes out of our community. And since we’re in the business of business, we do our best to promote, recruit, support, and advocate for all businesses and entrepreneurs in the region. In fact, one of our newest programs harnesses the great ideas that budding entrepreneurs already have and turns their visions into reality and into real, successful businesses.
We are now gearing up for the second year of this program with a class that will be composed of the area’s brightest, most creative and dedicated middle and high school students. YEA! is a 30week, projects-based course that takes students through the process of launching their own businesses or social movements. Under the instruction and mentorship of local professionals, students brainstorm ideas, write a business plan, pitch their business ideas to a panel of investors, obtain funding and eventually graduate from the program as CEOs of their own businesses. After competing in the local investor panel event, one
PROGRAM NEXT PROFILE
student advances to a regional competition in Rochester, NY, where they will compete to earn a spot in the Young Entrepreneurs Academy National Saunders Scholarship Competition, which is held at America’s Small Business Summit. It’s really an incredible opportunity that few people in the world get, let alone those still in high school. For our inaugural year, we sent Mukai Selekwa, founder and president of Webblen, to the regional competition as our local representative. Mukai is an inspirational
young entrepreneur that has continually impressed all of us involved in the program and he has embraced everything that YEA! taught him. He continues to see professional success as he prepares to start college in the fall at NSDU. Last month, Mukai spoke at 1 Million Cups Fargo, and this month he is speaking at the 2016 State of Technology, which is one of the Chamber’s events with Senator John Hoeven, alongside local leaders in the tech industry and the company-wide president of Microsoft, Brad Smith. This is
just one example of a student who has been able to use YEA! as a launching pad to expedite his path to a successful future. YEA! is an incredibly unique program, and I hope to see more students thrive as a result of their participation. We wanted to bring YEA! here because it fit into the Chamber’s mission of promoting economic growth and prosperity and we’re now achieving this by helping our young people establish themselves in the local business community and hopefully create jobs in the future.
Reach out to the students you know and tell them about this remarkable opportunity. Only 24 students are accepted into the program each year, and spots are filling quickly. We’re also looking for professionals to serve as instructors, mentors and guest speakers during our next year.
If you would like more information, please contact YEA! Program Coordinator Katie Ralston at kralston@fmwfchamber.com or 218.359.0511 Or simply apply at fmwfchamber.com/yea by September 30.
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PROFILE
FACES OF BUSINESS
CIARA STOCKELAND Founder & Owner, MODE
QUEEN OF OVERSTOCK One Fargo entrepreneur is reinventing the retail outlet model and taking the idea across the country. By Nate Mickelberg Photos by J. Alan Paul Photography and courtesy of the International Franchise Association (IFA)
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PROFILE
MIXED MESSAGES
There are two conflicting but inevitable realities of entrepreneurship. The first is that in order to succeed, you need to believe in your idea, heart and soul. The second is that in order to succeed, you need to be willing to abandon it at any given time. Ciara Stockeland admittedly used to struggle with the latter. "I think it's very common among small business owners and entrepreneurs," says Stockeland, the 37-year-old owner of MODE, a Fargo-based chain of boutiques that sells overstock designer inventory at a fraction of the retail price. "You have in your mind what you think you'll do, but if you aren't willing to change your course to what your consumers are telling you, you won't succeed." It seems obvious to her now, but the lesson was learned in a roundabout way after she opened chic maternity shop Mama Mia in Downtown Fargo in 2006. "I wanted to build a brand, not just a hobby store," says Stockeland, who was hoping to capitalize on what she saw as a lack of fashionable maternity options in Fargo at the time. "I could envision that brand and I could envision beautiful maternity stores all across the country." Mama Mia saw a steady stream of business, but a few months after opening, an unexpected phone call was about to reroute her entrepreneurial GPS. The voice on the other end of the line belonged to her husband's boss, the owner of a regional logistics company who had two truckloads of overstock merchandise that was collecting dust and needing to be liquidated.
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PROFILE MODE prides itself on being the "Home of the $40 designer jean," a slogan that the company even trademarked.
ONWARD AND UPWARD
By 2010, Stockeland knew that MODE was much more than a mom-and-pop and she was ready to expand.
"He said, 'You have a maternity store. I have a load of product," Stockeland recalls. "'Can we put it in your store, and will you sell it?' And I said, 'Well, we absolutely cannot put it in my store, but I can open something next door to it.' And so six months later, we opened a second store." She called it MODE and she was sure it would be nothing more than a pop-up shop and a one-off way to make a few extra bucks. Until it took off. "It just appealed to everyone," says Stockeland, who knew she'd struck gold, or at the very least, silver. "Instead of that short, four- to five-month customer with maternity, I now had the masses."
Stockeland merged the concepts in 2008 and brought the outlet over into the boutique. "My husband would always say, 'You quit Mama Mia and you started MODE,'" Stockeland says. "And I'd go, 'No, no, no, we had them both and we merged them.' I think it was my way of saying I didn't fail at something. "As an entrepreneur, you're always like, 'I don't want to say I quit that.' Because that means it didn't work or I didn't succeed at it."
"We said, 'Okay, we're ready to build this brand. How are we going to do that?'" she says. "Because owning stores three, six, eight hours away and managing all those employees with our young children is not something I wanted to do. Having to hop in the car and always be gone." So she came up with another solution. "We liked the idea of franchising and the idea that local owners would know their communities and have skin in the game," says Stockeland, who now has 11 franchises in six different states and is aiming to open 75 within the next 10 years. "The storeowner says, 'I'm invested. This is mine. I'm going to grow it.' Instead of us going in, researching,
So what was the problem? "I think it's a common mistake with boutique owners, being stuck in what they like," Stockeland says. "We like this, but our consumer is buying this. But we can't keep buying this just because we like it. In any industry, you have to be willing to adjust." In a move that she now admits was an attempt to mitigate any narrative of failure,
The floor of MODE's flagship South Fargo location.
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contacting people, and establishing that chamber-of-commerce relationship in each city, which I think is crucial to small business." There are, of course, drawbacks to the franchise model and one in particular that Stockeland says she still struggles with. "You're giving up your brand," she says. "You're putting it in the hands of other people and you have a very small window. It's like hiring a team. You have three interviews maybe—for a total of an hour and a half— and you have to figure out what that person's work ethic is, what their mindset is. It's the same thing with franchising. It's a longer process obviously, but it's still very limited. "You're giving them your brand that you built and saying, 'Here you go. Make this successful.' Having good systems and processes in place really helps with that. Good guidelines and parameters of, 'Here's what you can do. Here's what you can't do.'" And there are additional hurdles that newer franchises face, Stockeland explains. "With an emerging franchise, the difficulty is that those who want to franchise with you are most likely more entrepreneurial," she says. "If we had 100 units, that franchisee would be a different type of business owner. They're very process-driven. But those types of franchisees aren't going to buy into a new brand. "So you're bringing in people who have a lot
MODE University
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"To us, culture is making sure our employees are taken care of." of ideas, and that's why they'll come on at the beginning. But then you also have the problem of a lot of ideas. It's a balancing act."
NEVER COMPROMISE
Stockeland says the appeal of her stores is simple: people are tired of choosing between shopping in a warehouse or paying full price. "What makes MODE unique is the small boutique atmosphere," she says. "When you have outlet or off-price, it's always a big-box like T.J. Maxx or Marshalls. And we said, 'Why can't we still have a beautiful environment and comfortable place to shop but then have the deals inside of it?' The idea is to make women feel like they have a comfortable and organized place to shop for deals." MODE's $40-$50 denim and $15-$30 tops—marked down from $90-$250 and $30-$120, respectively—resonate with Midwest shoppers, especially, who she says have a unique appreciation for a good deal and fierce brand fidelity. "Consumers in the Midwest are very valuedriven," says Stockeland, who is currently
All MODE franchisee training is done in-house at the company's flagship Fargo store and even has its own postsecondary name: MODE University. Stockeland says MODE U is the culmination of years of planning, remodeling and space creation. "When we have a new store owner, they come to Fargo for a week," she says. "They train mostly out in the store, but they also come back and do book work. We set up their computers and all of their
focusing MODE's expansion on the I-29 corridor, from North Dakota all the way down to Texas. "They like price and they're very loyal consumers. To build a retail brand with people who say, 'I love shopping at MODE. This is where I'll always shop.' There's something to that." Stockeland senses that there's more to it, though. She says that as a number of bigname brands have begun to manufacture products specifically for their outlet stores, consumers have caught on. "We always like to say that we are a true outlet," she says. "I think that's something that customers have become very disenchanted with is the idea of outlets. Because you go to a big outlet mall, and we all know that they produce now for those stores. It's different than how they started. But what you find (at MODE) was meant for a full-price store and is deeply discounted. "Coach is one that our customers always complain to me about. When they used to go to Coach outlets, they were buying things that were from a Coach store. And now they produce a lot for those stores, and the production is going to be a little different. They're not getting something that was
systems and then do whiteboard sessions. Eide Bailly also comes in and teaches them different accounting principles. "It was kind of a dream I had because we used to just bring them into this space, and they would sit at a table while we would quietly work around them. I wanted a place where they could come and go back and forth between the store and the desks."
Thanks to connections she made through the International Franchise Association (IFA), Stockeland had the opportunity to testify in front of the U.S. Senate on two new, separate federal regulations that she says she believes will hurt small businesses across the country. "You go in front of the Senate, and it's pretty nerve-racking," she says of the experience. "But just like everything in small business, you have to fight for what you believe in. And if you don't, who will fight for you? I have to speak up if I have the opportunity."
actually at Nordstrom. And some consumers don't care, but I think a lot of them do."
TOUGH BUT FAIR
While Stockeland is the first to tell you she has her imperfections—she's working on slowing down and being able to sit still for more than 10 minutes at a time—her success isn't hard to understand. She's a good blend of old- and new-school, perhaps evidenced best by her unique take on workplace culture. "When we talk about culture," she says, "It isn't so much about having snacks always accessible or having TV time in the afternoon—those pieces that are spoken about a lot right now. To us, culture is making sure our employees are taken care of. We've always done that. I didn't start collecting a regular paycheck until about a year and a half ago, but my employees have always received their paycheck on time. That's a culture piece to us. "Making sure that whenever we can possibly
give any type of raise, we do it. Even if that means I still don't get a paycheck. That's a culture piece. Also, not just selling someone a store and saying, 'See ya.' I want them to be leaders in their community and what that looks like could be that they're really involved in nonprofits, it could be that they're building their own team so they can open a second store or it could be that they become a better mom. But I'm still a little old-school when it comes to, 'You're at work to work.'" Stockeland's also a third-generation entrepreneur and a native Fargoan and, as such, says she feels a unique responsibility to the area and her team of 12. "In a community where you're born and raised, there's so much given to you, and it creates the person you are," says Stockeland, who, despite logistical inefficiencies, has kept MODE's corporate headquarters and shipping operations in Fargo. "And so to be able to give back and be able to give jobs to women from this area is pretty fantastic."
MODE
shopmodestore.com 4302 13th Ave. S #13, Fargo 701-478-9969
OFFICE
OFFICE VIBES
The Most Famous Slide in Fargo Discovery Benefits
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s Discovery Benefits Vice President of Marketing Stephanie Schroeder begins to show us around the benefits administrator's expansive South Fargo offices, the question just can't wait. "How often do people really use the slide?" I ask. "You'd be surprised," she responds, without missing a beat. The slide, if you're unfamiliar, is the two-story-tall indoor slide that occupies both the literal center of the building and the figurative center of Discovery's approach to workplace culture. It's become the defining and best-known feature of the Fargo-based company's 21st century workplace, which Schroeder says is proof of their "work hard, play hard" mentality.
Stephanie Schroeder Vice President of Marketing, Discovery Benefits
Discovery Benefits 4321 20th Ave. SW, Fargo 866-451-3399 discoverybenefits.com
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OFFICE
"We like to say here that our values are more than just writing on the wall," Schroeder says. "I think a lot of times you come into an organization and everyone says, 'Oh, we have a really fun culture,' but we're very big on making sure people have time to have a little fun at work and let off a little steam. "And here it's more of a feeling when you walk in the door. And it's how employees treat each other. We're kind of a like a second family."
While they've been around since 1987, Discovery has seen explosive growth over the past five years— doubling in size every three years for some time—as they've shifted their focus to include a significant national presence (they now have clients in all 50 states). With an employee headcount now at more than 600, the company decided it needed more space to house its constantly expanding team and cut the ribbon on a nearly 30,000-square-foot expansion in spring 2015. They also have a second location in Brookings, S.D., which at the moment primarily serves as a call center, Schroeder says.
In the vein of Google's policy that employees never be more than 100 feet from food, Discovery has its own self-serve market with a selection that rivals that of a small convenience store. Employees can load funds onto a card and grab a pick-me-up without having to leave the building. 75
OFFICE
Any company can tell you how great they are, but only a handful have the hardware to prove it. Honored by Business Insurance magazine as a "Best Place to Work" for six consecutive years, as well as three separate times by Inc. magazine as one of America's 5,000 fastestgrowing companies, Discovery has garnered national recognition for their employee-centered approach to growing their business. "The Employee Portal," as the slide is officially called, is named for the site where Discovery clients log in to access their benefits and was agreed upon after an employee naming contest around the time the slide was unveiled. "It's about letting people know that you can be in a technical industry without taking yourself too seriously," Schroeder explains. "Life's too short to not have a little fun." Schroeder adds that the company hosts an annual competition in which the goal is to slide down and run back up the stairs five times as fast as you can. The current record is 33 seconds.
With two treadmills, two ellipticals and a stationary bike—and some free weights to boot—Discovery's in-house gym offers a convenient way to break a sweat before, during or after work. And if yoga's more up your alley, they bring in an instructor periodically to teach on-site classes.
Continuing with the theme of "outside things that Discovery Benefits put inside" is an open-flame fire pit area that employees can use to either relax during their break or host more formal meetings with coworkers. Whether it's the middle of January or the middle of August, the flame burns year-round and is one of the more popular amenities in the office, 76
AUGUST 2016
Schroeder says. "The other cool thing is that it's just kind of the centrally located part of the office," Schroeder says. "Employees pass through to basically go anywhere they need to go. And it really helps build that interaction. You get to know people from completely different departments just by sharing a communal space."
OFFICE CALENDAR NEXT If someone wants to get away from the hustle and bustle of the more centrally located downstairs lounge areas, there are a couple other getaway spots upstairs that employees can use.
The Discovery Benefits Culture Book was designed to be kept in all of the break rooms throughout the building in order to, among other things, provide employees with a little back story about the company. "Whether you're new or whether you're a veteran employee, it's about where we've been and what things we're passionate about. It also has some quotes from our employees in it."
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With neon-colored beanbags, a Nintendo Wii, and laptops available for personal use, you start to wonder if you've wandered onto the set of Silicon Valley.
If you caught a glimpse of the northwest side of the building from the street, you might think Discovery shared a space with a trendy bar and grill. That's their own patio, though, and it gets used pretty much every day in the summer, according to Schroeder. And with one of Discovery's team members heavily involved with what's known as the Hammock Initiative, they'll sometimes set up free-standing hammocks and sway the day away.
"These are fun little warnings from our IT department," Schroeder says. "We are really big on security here. It's really important that we keep all of our clients' data confidential.
"We deal with a lot of sensitive health information, and so these are just reminders of tips to better protect that information."
Schroeder says that in a company where you're lucky to know the name of half the people you walk past in a given day, it's good to encourage team members to add a bit of character to their work spaces. "People love decorating and celebrating here," she says. "And those hanging nameplates are really helpful when you have 600-some employees."
CALENDAR
BUSINESS EVENTS
CALENDAR
AUGUST 2016
ARCHITECTURE: BUILDING BRAND IDENTITY AND VALUE 1 BRAND Wednesday, August 10, 11:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.
Kimberly Wold Janke, VP of client services at Flint Communications, will share with attendees what a brand is, and more importantly, what a brand isn’t. They’ll hear about the common pitfalls that organizations make when building or reinventing their brand, plus action items to help kick off their own brand development and positioning. A professional branding and customer experience speaker and one of the top health care speakers on marketing, Wold Janke is an expert at planning and successfully integrating marketing communications campaigns. She has been a part of Fargo-based Flint Group for more than a decade, working her way up through various positions. Registration includes lunch and is $25 in advance and $35 at the door for Chamber members and $45 in advance and $55 at the door for non-members.
2 THE STATE OF TECHNOLOGY
Tuesday, August 16, 8 a.m. - noon Mark your calendars for this exciting event highlighting the amazing technological innovations from our region. This year, our presenters will share the projects happening locally that are changing the world, from vaccination breakthroughs and cell therapy to cloud seeding and more. North Dakota Senator John Hoeven will kick off the event, and with a keynote message from new Microsoft president Brad Smith—plus exclusive announcements— this is one event you won’t want to miss. The event will be emceed by Myriad Mobile's Jake Joranstaad and Camille Grade. Registration includes continental breakfast and is $35 for Chamber members and $50 for non-members. Corporate sponsorship includes a table for eight and is $650. fmwfchamber.com Hilton Garden Inn 4351 17th Ave. S, Fargo
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In partnership with North Dakota Senator John Hoeven
Speaker Neil Brackin President, Weather Modification Inc.
Keynote Speaker Brad Smith President, Microsoft
Speaker Seth Arndorfer CEO, Dakota Carrier Network
Speaker Michael Chambers CEO, Aldevron
Speaker Mukai Selekwa Regional winner, Young Entrepreneurs Academy (YEA!)
Photos courtesy of FMWF Chamber of Commerce and Flint Group
fmwfchamber.com Courtyard by Marriott Fargo-Moorhead 1080 28th Ave. S, Moorhead
CONTROL BOARD MEETING 3 LIQUOR Wednesday, August 17, 1 - 2 p.m.
COMMISSION MEETING 5 AUDITORIUM Friday, August 19, 7:30 - 8:30 a.m.
Meetings are broadcast live on TV Fargo (channel 99). They are rebroadcast on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7:30 p.m. and the first Wednesday at 9:30 a.m.
Meetings are broadcast live on TV Fargo (channel 99). They are shown again on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 9 p.m., the first Tuesday at 8:30 a.m. and the second Thursday at 3 p.m.
cityofargo.com/calendar Fargo City Hall 200 3rd St. N, Fargo
cityofargo.com/calendar Fargo City Hall 200 3rd St. N, Fargo
Pam McGee
Jodi Heilman
4
6 PERSONAL BRANDING TO ADVANCE YOUR CAREER
BUSINESS AFTER HOURS
Tuesday, August 23, 3:30 - 5 p.m., Social: 5 - 6 p.m. There’s only one you. So how are you promoting your unique skills, abilities and knowledge each day in order to bring your dream career opportunities into your path? Personal branding can be the key to achieving the role you’ve always wanted or branching out and starting the business of your dreams. What is your personal brand? Your promise? Learn how to clarify, define and write your own authentic brand story.
Business After Hours is a Chamber members-only event, and participants must be 21 years of age or older to attend. Receive the $22 admission price by registering your attendance prior to midnight the Wednesday before the event. All registrations received after that time and at the door will be billed at the $32 rate. Includes appetizers and two drink tickets. Sponsored by Spotlight Media.
Join Jodi Heilman, owner of Coach My Brand, and Pam McGee, chair of the Professional Management Department at Minnesota State University Moorhead and owner of McGee and Co. Consulting, as they share personal stories of achieving corporate executive roles through the process of building their own personal brand stories. Learn the research behind why it makes savvy financial sense to build and enhance your brand. Understand why authenticity determines its success or failure and how you can start immediately building a network of like-minded women to support you. Registration is $25 in advance and $35 at the door for Chamber members and $45 in advance and $55 at the door for non-members.
fmwfchamber.com FargoDome 1800 University Drive N, Fargo
fmwfchamber.com Avalon Events Center 2525 9th Ave. S, Fargo
Thursday, August 18, 4:30 - 6:30 p.m. Widely recognized as the region's most effective networking opportunity, Business After Hours creates and promotes business opportunities for everyone involved. The social atmosphere allows individuals to network with industry leaders, trade-show vendors and representatives of other organizations.
Fargo INC!, Fargo Monthly and gofargojobs.com bring you a section dedicated to careers in Fargo-Moorhead.
FM
Some great new places
HIRING
CAREER Finder 85
5 common mistakes by job seekers By Rick Berg
M
Photo by J. Alan Paul Photography
any job seekers think the first step for them in the hiring process begins with the interview. However, proper preparation prior to the interview can go a long way.
1
Not properly prepping for interview
Don’t walk into an interview without preparing and expect to successfully wing it. Put together a list of questions you think they may ask based on your résumé, experience and education, especially to those skills that translate to the position. Think about answering these questions in a way that shows value to the company.
3
Spelling and grammar mistakes in the resume
You’ve proofread your resume, but go over it again with a fine-tooth comb. Ask someone else to go over it as well if you’ve made major changes, especially to a cover letter. Spotting a spelling or grammar mistake already gives the first impression of lacking attention to detail or limited effort.
Reviewing again just before an interview can help keep things fresh, just don’t stress yourself out.
Even worse, not replacing all of the mentions of another business or role you applied to with the new one or misspelling the name of the person or company you’re addressing will not help your chances.
2
4
Not doing thorough research on the company
Showing up prepared with knowledge and information about a company, its industry, and the role you’re interviewing for speaks volumes and can put you at a significant advantage. Showing up with the bare minimum in knowledge is easy for employers to recognize. You should at least have a thorough understanding of what the company does, their history, how they operate and have a good idea of the role you’re applying for. TIP: Come prepared with a couple of great questions that display a deep level of research in the company.
Not following applications instructions
Another note on attention to detail: make sure to correctly follow the application instructions. Read the job description and post again before hitting send just to make sure you didn’t miss anything. This mistake can also give the perception of lacking attention to detail or not being able to handle instructions correctly.
5
Not tailoring resume to the job description and company
Get personal with your cover letter and résumé. You want the company to know that you want to work there. A bland, generic cover letter that you sent to 10 different companies with minimal changes won’t stand out. Best of luck on the hunt!
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Management Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Production Manager
JOBS
Spotlight Media Fargo How do I apply?
Registered Nurse
Fargo
The production manager is responsible for the flow of material and manpower in the area/department in order to meet the production schedule/target rates.
Prairie St. John’s, a 110-bed psychiatric care facility located in Fargo, N.D., has been providing services for children, adolescents, adults, and seniors to address mental health issues, chemical dependency, or addiction and cooccurring disorders since 1997.
Apply: more Visit info spherion.com/fargo at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
Apply: email PSJHR@uhsinc.com
Store/Assistant Managers
Midwest Community Residential Services Inc. (MCRSI)
Fargo
RN/LPN
Moorhead
Petro Serve USA is looking for qualified individuals who have integrity, can provide outstanding customer service, strive for excellence, are eager to learn and can consistently work as a team member. We offer competitive pay, benefits, 401k, paid vacation and sick leave.
Full- and part-time positions available. Attend client appointments and meetings, training of staff, supervision of medical care and participation as part of an interdisciplinary team.
Apply: Visit bit.ly/petrogfj
Apply: Email nhuber@mcrsi.com
Professional Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Experienced Architect
Spotlight Media Fargo
Midwest Community Residential Services Inc. (MCRSI)
Program Assistant
Moorhead
How I apply? firm is seeking a Registered Architect. A localdo architecture
Full- and part-time positions available. Assist clients with disabilities in a variety of areas based on need, including cooking, cleaning, supervision, transportation and redirection of behavior.
Apply: Email more infomatt.helander@expresspros.com at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
Apply: Email bhalvorson@mcrsi.com
Needs 3-5 years experience and a master’s degree in architecture. Must already be registered or on the path to it. Experience in AutoCAD, Revit or Sketchup needed. Call Express Employment at 701-297-8800.
Customer Service Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Leasing Specialist
Spotlight Media Fargo
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Health Care
Midwest Community Residential Services Inc. (MCRSI)
Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Human Resource Assistant
Spotlight Media Moorhead How do I apply?
Goldmark strives to make a positive impact on the lives of others. An opportunity is available to serve those looking for or living in apartment homes we manage. We’re accepting applications for caring and dedicated candidates for full- and part-time positions with opportunities for advancement.
MCRSI is looking for a human resources assistant to work in our Moorhead office. Duties include: scheduling, assisting with timesheets, training new staff and other general human resource duties. Hours are Monday-Friday, 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. Pay dependent on experience.
Apply: more Visit info goldmark.com/careers at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
Apply: more Email infonhuber@mcrsi.com at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
AUGUST 2016
gofargojobs.com
Sales JOBS
Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Food Service Sales Rep
Spotlight Media Fargo
How do I apply?
Marketing/Advertising
Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Digital Creative Spotlight MediaIntern
Fargo
How do I apply?
Food service, also known as on-premise selling, will service existing accounts and use superior cold-calling selling skills to generate new business for the following customers: restaurants, colleges and universities, hospitals, workplaces, recreation and education accounts.
We are currently seeking a Digital Creative Intern. The ideal candidate has design experience and is proficient with Adobe Creative Suite. This is a paid internship.
Apply: Visit bit.ly/pepsico29 more info at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
Apply: more Visit info adsharkmarketing.com/careers at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
Construction Agronomy Sales Rep
Fargo Fargo, ND
Fargo
Central Plains Ag Services has an exciting opportunity in How do I apply? our Country Operations Retail division. We are looking for a highly motivated self-starter to join our growing agriculture organization. You will be an agronomy sales rep, working with farmers, ranchers and producers.
How do I apply?
Apply: Visit bit.ly/CHS297
more info at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM Apply: Visit spherion.com/fargo
Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Sales Rep (Primary Care)
Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Drafter/Estimator
Spotlight Media Fargo
As a pharmaceutical How do I apply? sales rep, you will have the opportunity to regularly call on healthcare professionals within a specific geographic area. Day-to-day responsibilities include supporting the promotional efforts behind Allergan products to healthcare professionals. Apply: Visit bit.ly/allergan29 more info at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
General
The technical support field technician position ensures customer satisfaction during the completion of service work orders and while installing new telecommunications systems. This position requires the ability to travel. Requirements: associate’s degree.
Fargo Spotlight Media $18-$26/hour
How do I apply?
A Fargo company is seeking a drafter/estimator. An ideal applicant will have a background in mechanical drafting or a few years of experience using AutoCAD. Call Express Employment Professionals today at 701-297-8800.
more info at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM
Apply: Email devon.hofer@expresspros.com
Digital Strategy Intern (Paid) Career Opportunities Spotlight Media
Project Manager Digital Strategy Intern (Paid)
Thief River Falls, MN
Fargo Spotlight $40 - $60k Media
How do I apply?
How docompany I apply?is seeking a project manager. A Fargo
Careers at Digi-Key offer a world-class experience, competitive compensation, outstanding benefits, and a comfortable, friendly work environment. Areas of opportunity include: accounting, applications engineering, customer service, human resources, IT, marketing, order fulfillment, and more! Visit our careers page to learn more.
Apply: Visitinfo www.digikey.com/careers more at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM 92
Digital Strategy Intern Technical Support Field(Paid) Technician Spotlight Media
AUGUST 2016
This position requires someone with experience in commercial construction working as a contractor or with subcontractors. A degree in construction management is highly preferred. Call Express Employment Professionals today at 701-297-8800. Apply: Email more infodevon.hofer@expresspros.com at SPOTLIGHTMEDIAFARGO.COM gofargojobs.com