Press Releases
January 15, 2009
Amidst Economic Downturn, Marketplace Examines New Opportunities for North Dakota
Conrad and Johnson Kick-Off ND's Premiere Economic Development Forum
Bismarck – Hundreds of aspiring entrepreneurs, students and community and business leaders from across the region gathered today at the Bismarck Civic Center for Marketplace for Entrepreneurs, North Dakota’s largest and longest-running economic development initiative.
“Today we are celebrating 20 years of Marketplace for Entrepreneurs. This event has been so successful because it really offers something for everyone,” said U.S. Senator Kent Conrad and Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson, the event’s organizing sponsors.
The daylong event included forums led by today’s business leaders, dozens of classes for aspiring entrepreneurs, and more than 200 exhibitors displaying their latest inventions and business ideas. Participants learned what it takes to start and grow a successful business in North Dakota.
Dr. Mark Zandi, chief economist for Moody’s Economy.com, delivered the keynote address, continuing Marketplace’s tradition of featuring prominent speakers. One of the nation’s foremost financial experts, Dr. Zandi presented a powerful analysis of the root causes of the current economic crisis. He also outlined how North Dakota can emerge from it as a new leader in the global economy.
Following the keynote address, Senator Conrad and Commissioner Johnson presented the annual Marketplace awards highlighting some of North Dakota’s leading entrepreneurs.
Sinner Bros. & Bresnahan was honored as the 2009 Marketplace Entrepreneur of the Year, and Carrie Grosz of Bismarck was named Social Entrepreneur of the Year. In addition, Carrington was chosen as the 2009 Marketplace Entrepreneurial Community of the Year.
“In these troubling economic times, the need for innovation and entrepreneurship has never been more important. North Dakotans certainly have the know-how. Marketplace offers the insight and guidance on how to take advantage of new opportunities,” Conrad and Johnson said.
