Learn What the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC Does for You During Economic Development Week

The Bismarck Mandan Chamber Economic Development Corporation (EDC) is excited to celebrate Economic Development Week (EDW) from May 6th through May 10th. This week highlights the importance of economic development in our region and across the globe.

“Economic development is valuable for any growing community, but many people don't entirely understand what it entails,” says Nathan Schneider, Vice President of the Bismarck-Mandan Chamber EDC. “Our organization does more than just recruit businesses to the region while building up entrepreneurs. We also play a key role in supporting the quality of life of residents.”

This economic development week, take a deep dive into how your local Chamber EDC supports you. Here’s how the leaders of Bismarck Mandan are implementing intentional and local economic success.

New Business Attraction

Most people associate economic development with new business attraction. While this is a key part of the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC’s goals, the organization takes a strategic approach to the types of businesses it recruits. The three primary industry targets include value-added energy, value-added agriculture, and equipment manufacturing.

“We take a big picture view of how a single business will send ripple effects through the economy,” says Schneider. “A new business in one of these sectors has the potential to support existing companies through workforce development and vendor partnerships.”

While any business is welcome in Bismarck Mandan, the Chamber EDC allocates its resources with sustainable growth and the local workforce in mind.   

Business Retention and Expansion

Economic development involves bringing new businesses to Bismarck Mandan; however, the support provided by the Chamber EDC doesn't stop once a company is established in the area. Our organization frequently conducts one-on-one visits with company leaders to identify any potential issues or roadblocks to growth. These can range from gaps in talent acquisition to potential quality-of-life improvements.

“The Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC listens first and acts second,” says Schneider. “We constantly seek out feedback from business owners and respond based on their needs.”

By staying involved in the business community, your Chamber EDC plays a key role in retaining businesses and promoting their expansion. 

Support of Entrepreneurs

Every business in Bismarck Mandan is valuable, whether it employs 500 workers or five. We strive to provide financial assistance and educational business resources to entrepreneurs so they can get their ideas off the ground.

“One of our core values is to be a feeder to the region, not a leader,” says Schneider. “By pouring our knowledge and resources into small businesses, we can support the next generation of Bismarck Mandan leaders.”

Workforce Development

North Dakota boasts the second-happiest workforce in the nation because of its high per capita income and low commute times. More than 83,000 residents are employed in the region across more than 6,000 companies.

“Good companies are made up of great employees, and Bismarck Mandan has one of the best workforces in the country,” says Schneider.

Our workforce development initiatives help train and upskill the current workforce so it can meet the needs of employers. Not only do these efforts keep up with the demand of businesses, but they help residents turn jobs into careers. 

Talent Attraction

Along with building up the local talent of Bismarck Mandan, the Chamber EDC works to bring new residents to the area. Their talent acquisition efforts make staffing easier while creating new customers for local businesses.

One of their top programs for talent acquisition is the Make Your Mark campaign. This website is packed with resources to support future North Dakota residents as they move to the region.

Get Involved With the Chamber EDC

Everyone in Bismarck Mandan is affected by economic development, from business owners with open job listings to families looking for housing. We are stronger together when we grow in a sustainable fashion and work toward mutual goals.

Keep up with the Bismarck Mandan Chamber EDC to see what they're up to throughout the year. There are always opportunities for business leaders, entrepreneurs, and individuals to make a difference.