Minot — The Minot Area Chamber EDC looked back at an eventful 2022 and looked ahead to what’s next at its 2023 Annual Meeting on Monday evening.
North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum delivered a keynote address to the roughly 250 attendees at the Grand Hotel. In his presentation, Gov. Burgum highlighted the state’s efforts to bolster North Dakota’s business climate — and celebrated what makes Minot special, including the Logistics Park of North Dakota.
“When you talk about engaged communities, Minot is always at the forefront,” Gov. Burgum said. “The intermodal facility at the Logistics Park of North Dakota gives our region a port that can reach the while world. That’s fantastic.”
“With all this,” Gov. Burgum continued, “Our economic outlook is really bright.”
Kevin Black, the Chair of the MACEDC Board of Directors, shared his optimism for the years ahead, citing the organization’s newly developed five-year strategic plan.
“By clearly defining our organization’s five key pillars — Economic Development, Community Development, Workforce Development, Member-Investor Services, and Military Support — we are in a better position than ever to fulfill our mission,” Black said. “We strive to improve quality of life for all, and our team is well equipped to achieve its goals.”
Outgoing Board Chair Randy Hauck identified several highlights from 2022, including significant work done to expand rail access at the Logistics Park of North Dakota and the hiring of Brekka Kramer as President/CEO of MACEDC.
“The number one responsibility of a Board of Directors is to make sure we have the right person in charge of the organization,” Hauck said. “Brekka has hit the ground running and has already proven that she is the right person for the job.”
MACEDC President/CEO Brekka Kramer expressed gratitude for the community’s support in her first year at the helm of the organization.
“It truly is Magic in Minot!” Kramer said. “On behalf of the team and board of directors, we are grateful to all who support and invest in the Minot Area Chamber EDC, so that we can in turn advocate for and invest in business activity by being a collaborative partner in our community.”
As part of the 2023 Annual Meeting, the Minot Area Chamber EDC also presented its first-ever Impact Awards to four recipients. MACEDC received several nominations from the community in February and March.
The Impact Award for Outstanding Military Support was presented to Verendrye Electric Cooperative.
“Verendrye Electric Cooperative has had ties to the military for decades,” Kramer said while presenting the award. “From maintaining and operating electrical infrastructure at Minot Air Force Base after its construction in 1955 to volunteering and serving food at countless military appreciation events in Minot. Verendrye has gone above and beyond in supporting our military.”
Prairie Sky Breads received the Impact Award for Outstanding Small Business.
“Small businesses are a vital part of any community’s identity,” Black said. “Prairie Sky Breads has created a friendly environment in downtown Minot, support initiatives that keep our downtown and small business communities connected.”
The Impact Award for Outstanding Leadership was given to Ron Merritt, Executive Director of the Minot Park District.
“Ron has humbly led the Minot Park District since 2005,” Kramer said. “He has been a steadfast leader — a calm presence in the face of enormous challenges like the 2011 Mouse River Flood. He has done so much to make Minot a better place to live, work and play.”
Finally, Hess Corporation was presented with the Impact Award for Outstanding Community Impact. The business was recognized for its efforts to shore up workforce shortages by creating a partnership with the North Dakota Tribal College system.
“Over the next four years, Hess Corporation is investing millions of dollars to provide tuition assistance and other support to establish apprenticeship programs for Native American students in a variety of fields,” Black said. “They are great corporate citizens making a significant positive impact on North Dakota.”
LINK: Minot Area Chamber EDC 2022 Annual Report
