The Bismarck-Mandan EDC Celebrates 2024 and Looks Ahead During Its Annual Dinner

Business owners, community leaders, and elected officials came together on Friday, March 14, for the Bismarck-Mandan Economic Development Corporation’s annual dinner. This event provides an invaluable opportunity for the EDC’s stakeholders to review the past year's efforts while aligning our goals for the future.

“We are successful because of our community partners,” says Nathan Schneider, Vice President of the Bismarck-Mandan EDC. “While our staff works incredibly hard throughout the year to grow the region, we wouldn’t be as effective without a team of supporters offering their time and expertise.”

Here are a few highlights from the dinner in case you missed it. Bismarck-Mandan is driving North Dakota forward while improving the lives of people who call these cities home. 

Governor Armstrong Shared Legislative and Project Updates 

Governor Kelly Armstrong attended the annual dinner and highlighted relevant legislation that could affect the business community of Bismarck-Mandan. He also discussed various projects in the region that will provide a brighter future for residents and countless industries. Here are a few highlights from his address.

• New workforce development programs: North Dakota is ready for more business and boasts an ample workforce that has access to training and upskilling opportunities. Meeting workforce demand continues to be one of the biggest challenges for employers nationwide. 
• North Dakota has ample natural energy resources: North Dakota ranks third in the nation (behind Texas and New Mexico) in crude oil reserves and production. It is also a top-10 fuel ethanol-producing state. There are also significant opportunities for green energy production. 
• Agriculture remains a top industry in the region: Morton County, home to Mandan, leads the state in cattle production. Burleigh County, home of Bismarck, has more than 700 farms. Supporting agriculture is essential for growing Bismarck-Mandan.

These notes highlight the diverse nature of Bismarck-Mandan’s economy. Industries like value-added agriculture and energy production are already growing here, but the strong workforce creates more opportunities for new industries to develop. 

The EDC Supported 75 New or Expanding Projects in 2024

Brenda Nagel, President of the EDC, provided a recap of the projects that the organization worked on in 2024. Throughout the year, the EDC worked on 75 new and existing projects to support growth in the region. These range from site improvement projects to programs that support quality of life.

“Economic development is more multifaceted than ever,” says Schneider. “It’s no longer just about recruiting businesses to create jobs. Modern economic development teams need to create healthy communities where people want to live. That is how you get a diverse business ecosystem.”

Bismarck-Mandan supports quality-of-life efforts through its Make Your Mark arm. As these projects reach completion and new projects start, residents can discover new opportunities to live and play in the region.  

Lee Pierce Stepped in as Board Chair

The EDC is led by a diverse board of directors from various industries in the region. In 2025, Lee Pierce will lead the board and guide the EDC in its efforts. Pierce is passionate about helping businesses come to our community and ensuring that we have a strong workforce, low-cost properties, and utilities that any business can thrive in. These goals align with the projects started by the EDC in 2024 so the organization can continue its work in 2025.

Thank you, Lee, for stepping into this role. 

Get Involved With the Bismarck-Mandan EDC

The Bismarck-Mandan EDC needs business and community leaders, along with passionate individuals, to help this region grow. The future of the region – and North Dakota as a whole – hinges on the involvement of people who want to see Bismarck-Mandan thrive. Keep up with our efforts and attend local meetings to learn more about our projects. Your help is just what we need.

Reach out to Emily Eback at eeback@bmcedc.com to discover how you can better connect with the Bismarck-Mandan EDC.