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Bison Illustrated is your number one source for all of the behind-the-scenes action inside the North Dakota State University Athletic Department.
You may already be familiar with our Faces of Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo publication which we publish once per year in order to highlight the faces behind all of the great businesses in the community.
Are you in need of a new career? The Great Places to Work Fargo-MoorheadWest Fargo Annual Career Guide highlights amazing businesses in the area that provide great growth opportunities, benefits, and more!
HOW CYBERCRIMINALS USE AI TO POWER THEIR ATTACKS
By NorthStar Technology Group
anaging a business on your own is full of challenges. The day-today grind can be difficult enough on its own, but now you also need to consider cyber threats to your organization. There is cause for alarm as hackers are using artificial intelligence (AI) to launch sophisticated cyberattacks to steal your data and disrupt business operations.
The good news is there are steps you can take to protect your business. This article will explain how AI is being used in cybercrime and what you can do to safeguard your business.
HOW HACKERS USE AI
Here are some of the ways cybercriminals are exploiting AI:
DEEPFAKES
Hackers use AI to create highly realistic fake videos or audio recordings to impersonate someone you know, like your boss or a trusted friend. These deepfakes can be used to trick you into sending money or sharing sensitive information.
HOW TO SPOT IT: Closely look for details like unnatural facial movements or sloppy voice synchronization.
AI-POWERED PASSWORD CRACKING
With the help of AI, cybercriminals can effortlessly crack common and easy passwords. Hackers with access to advanced computation offered by AI can automate the breaching process, which means they can try millions of combinations to guess your password.
HOW TO FIGHT BACK: Always use unique passwords. Consider using a password manager.
AI-ASSISTED HACKING
Hackers no longer need to spend hours looking for vulnerabilities. Instead,
with the help of AI, they can create automated programs that not only identify weaknesses in your system but also create new types of malware.
HOW TO STAY AHEAD: Keep your security systems and software updated. Also, a mandate should be set up to scan for vulnerabilities routinely.
SUPPLY CHAIN ATTACKS
Threat actors use AI to insert malicious code into legitimate vendor products, which eventually will compromise your system as well.
HOW TO PROTECT YOURSELF: Only download software from trusted
sources. Always be vigilant with updates and patches.
BOOST YOUR DEFENSES
AI-powered cybercrime is a growing threat. That's why having a strong IT partner like NorthStar Technology Group by your side can be the ultimate weapon in your arsenal.
GAME CHANGERS
IN BUSINESS BANKING
Border Bank Welcomes New Treasury Management Director
Since its inception in 1935, Border Bank has been a game changer in local banking, offering the best in service and resources to help businesses succeed and thrive. Over 85 years later, Border Bank continues to serve local business owners in exceptional ways and is excited to step into a new chapter of being game-changers in business banking.
Market President Jordan Cook and Border Bank's business banking team have built strong relationships with clients over the years—but with growing success come new opportunities, and Border Bank knew it wanted to offer even greater efficiency
and accessibility to its clients. That's why in 2024, the business banking team welcomed Treasury Management Director LeeAnn Staffne on board.
"It's hard to differentiate in banking, so for our business banking team, we wanted to differentiate ourselves by bringing someone like LeeAnn on board who can work directly with clients. And that's what we pride ourselves on; having the best technology, having the best people, and being accessible 24/7," Cook said.
MEET OUR Business Banking Team
LeeAnn Staffne
TREASURY MANAGEMENT DIRECTOR
Richardton, ND, native LeeAnn Staffne has worked in banking her entire career. She has experience in consumer banking, private banking, retirement plan services, leadership, and commercial lending. As the new Treasury Management Director at Border Bank, her primary focus is on building client relationships and establishing Border Bank's treasury management department. LeeAnn attended college at Dickinson State University, where she earned a degree in Business Administration with a minor in Management. After college, she moved to Fargo and now resides in West Fargo with her husband David and their three kids, Ava, Carter, and Bailey.
Jordan Cook
MARKET PRESIDENT
Wahpeton, ND, native Jordan Cook has been in banking for over 15 years, joining Border Bank in 2019 and later becoming the Fargo Market President in 2021. Cook's leadership at Border Bank focuses on client relationships and improving service delivery through efficient, local decision making. Outside the office, Cook is an avid golfer and sports fan and loves spending time at the lake with his family, children Julias and Haven, and friends.
Dan Doeden CHIEF BANKING OFFICER
Fargo native Dan Doeden has been in banking for over 25 years, graduating from the University of Wyoming with a degree in Business Administration, and later moving back to Fargo to pursue banking. In 2023, Doden joined Border Bank as the Chief Banking Officer and works primarily in commercial banking, consumer banking, and business development. Additionally, Doeden oversees Border Bank's market presidents, treasury management, and mortgage divisions. Outside work, Doeden enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time with his wife Tammy and their three children.
Adam Johnson
BUSINESS BANKER
Park River, ND, native Adam Johnson began his banking career following his graduation from Minnesota State University Moorhead in 2021. Johnson joined Border Bank in 2023 as Business Banker. In this role, his focus is building relationships, and helping his customers grow, succeed, and thrive in the community. In his spare time, Johnson enjoys coaching football, golfing, and traveling with his wife, Abby.
As the new Treasury Management Director at Border Bank, Staffne's primary role is building business client relationships and further establishing Border Bank's treasury management department.
Online Banking
"Online banking is the hub for clients to access their business banking products and services. Business Online banking is a secure and convenient way for clients to review their accounts, monitor cashflow, transfer funds, and navigate their elected treasury management services," Staffne said.
ACH Origination
"ACH Origination allows clients to send and receive funds electronically to and from individuals, businesses, and other financial institutions. Common uses for ACH Origination are payroll direct deposit, vendor payments and receivables, and customer payments."
Online Wires
"Sending domestic online wires is another avenue for business clients to pay individuals or businesses through our online banking system."
Positive Pay
"Positive pay is really becoming a heavily used service. It functions as a fraud detection tool for unauthorized check or ACH transactions. What's really cool about that is clients can input data into the system, like who they've issued checks to, and what companies can debit or credit their accounts via ACH. Then the system matches that up with the check and ACH items presented. If discrepancies are detected the client is notified to login and pay or return the items. The decision power is in the hands of the client."
Remote Deposit Capture
"Remote Deposit Capture provides clients with the ability to deposit checks from the convenience of their office. By reducing trips to the bank, clients spend less time depositing checks and more time focusing on running their business."
Merchant Card Services
"Merchant Card Services provide business clients the ability to accept, process, and track customer card transactions while making purchases easy for their customers," Staffne said.
Offering More Value to Clients
With these services and more, the Border Bank business team believes they are able to not only deliver a new suite of services to clients but deliver these services efficiently as well. Giving a business the tools to manage its cashflow efficiently and effectively is extra horsepower for a business to succeed long-term. "This is a space that we've really needed to build on here. And by doing that, we're able to solidify client relationships," Staffne said.
Although Border Bank has offered treasury management services for several years, it hasn't had a Treasury Management Director to be a single point of contact. "We've always had good bankers on the front end that can provide services to customers and great operations people on the back end, taking care of their operational needs," Dan Doden said. "But LeeAnn can marry the two so customers aren't discombobulated talking to a bunch of different people."
Why Border Bank is the right team to help you grow your business
Businesses who have never worked with Border Bank may be wondering, "Why are you the right bank for my business?"
One major thing that Cook noted is how Border Bank is very team focused and has the ability to make decisions locally.
"We're very fortunate that we have our management team here in Fargo; we don't have a lot of layers we have to go through to make a decision," Cook said. "We move things along quickly, whether it's a yes or no—and clients really respect that. That's what I think has differentiated us and allowed us to grow in such a significant way."
market with quick, local decision making, which is a gamechanging factor for a business. Their business banking team also goes one step beyond what is expected by making themselves available and easily accessible to clients, building lasting relationships, and providing the best solutions for their business goals.
Border Bank as a company has worked hard to establish a culture that's very focused on serving the needs of the customers and getting to know them."
- Dan Doeden, Chief Banking Officer
Border Bank understands that time is everything for a business—that's why they pride themselves in speed to
3 Business Banking Tools
"I love the efficiency we have to where I can put something together and send it to Dan, and I can have a decision on whether we want to move forward or not on something," Cook said. "I had a client say that's why we're always his first stop because he knows if we pass on it, he should probably question whether or not he should do it and appreciates that we don't waste their time. We often have clients tell us that we will always be their first call."
BORDER BANK OFFERS THAT CUSTOMERS MAY NOT KNOW ABOUT
Positive Pay
"As a newer service we provide, we are excited to get this in front of our clients and help protect them against loss caused by potential check or ACH fraud."
- LeeAnn Staffne
Insured Deposit Accounts
"Another tool we offer that customers may be surprised to know about is insured deposit accounts, which we offer above and beyond what the FDIC insurance limits are to protect their deposits." - Dan Doeden
Competitive Analysis & Review
"With a focus on helping potential and current clients grow their businesses by saving time and money, we provide a free consultation to analyze current operating account activity, treasury management services, and all associated costs." - LeeAnn Staffne
Becoming trusted names in business banking doesn't happen overnight; it takes years of building relationships with clients and showing up for them every day. A couple of the key factors that have proved to be cornerstones for Border Bank are honesty and transparency paired with an empowered team of decision makers.
"One of the biggest things that changed in my career when coming to Border Bank was how important it is to be confident in your decision-making and knowing when to say yes or no," Cook said. "We make it our priority to be honest with clients upfront if something will work or not, and customers appreciate that."
Key factors that make Border Bank trusted advisors
Those key factors, in turn, have been monumental for Border Bank's growth. Rather than having a strong emphasis on sales to obtain clients, Border Bank's growth has come heavily from word of mouth. "A lot [or our success] is built on a network that just keeps growing and growing," Cook said.
"I think that comes from how you take care of somebody— Adam on our business banking team, for example, has a strong network of clients that all started with one guy. He took care of them, and it's unbelievable to see how that's grown."
Why Border Bank cares about your business succeeding
Cook also noted that when you take care of a client, it leads to other open doors and opportunities for success and growth for both parties and a clients success ultimately impacts Border Bank's success—so when clients are taken care of, it's a win-win for everyone.
"What Jordan, LeeAnn, and the rest of the team do is the heavy lifting, allowing customers to focus on their primary business and not having to worry about their banking relationship—because they know they're taken care of," Doeden said.
"Tying it back into the cash management space, taking care of our clients also means us coming in and helping identify ways to make them be more efficient and streamline their operation, so they don't have to worry," LeeAnn added. "We can make that easier for them so they can focus on growing their business."
Whether you're a new business in Fargo-Moorhead looking for business banking solutions or a longstanding business looking to create more efficiencies, the Border Bank business team is excited to serve you and help you reach your business goals.
We've all had the lightbulb moment—that time when things just click. When this happens for your business, it can take you from good to great.
We spoke with a number of successful entrepreneurs from the FargoMoorhead metro to learn about the tools, tips, and tricks that have helped them along the way.
By Brady Drake
Meet The Commentators Meet The Commentators
submittedbyDenni
submittedbyAndrew
Ryan Fritz
CEO, Office Sign Company
Ryan Fritz, an artist at his core, founded Office Sign Company in 2008, and has built it into a local commerce giant that sells signage all across the country.
What's new? "We just shipped completed signs to NASA last month. Rockstar Games, Netflix, Activision-Call of Duty Endowment department, Harvard University, Space Force, and Marvel ordering from us in Fargo, ND, has us all very excited here at Office Sign Company. Not to leave out some of the very best local customers we have the opportunity to serve right here in our community. We’re feeling very grateful."
Andrew J. Young
Creative Director, ABOVO
Andrew J. Young is the founder and creative director of Abovo, a marketing and design agency based in Fargo, ND. His journey to founding Abovo is quite interesting. Initially, he worked as the marketing director for Hatch Realty, a Fargo-based real estate company. During his time at Hatch Realty, the idea for Abovo was conceived when the founder of Hatch Realty suggested that their marketing team evolve into a standalone agency that could serve both Hatch and other clients. This idea came to fruition, and Abovo officially launched. Now, they are a full-service marketing agency.
What's new? "I think one thing that's really interesting and kind of new to the services that we provide and/or are going to provide is that we're spending a lot of time concentrating on how we can help our clients exist in 3D and virtual spaces. The Apple Vision Pro and Meta Quest Three are increasingly becoming consumer products. Augmented and virtual reality spaces are places are clients are going to need to be in—as marketers, we need to be prepared for that. So, we're spending a lot of time working with 3D modeling software and using 3D virtual headsets."
Meet The Commentators
Meet The Commentators Meet The Commentators
Sarah West
Owner/Fractional CFO at Light Consulting & Co-Owner of Dale Carnegie of ND & NW MN
Sarah is a wife, mother, Jesus lover, and entrepreneur.
"My life’s purpose is to make life and business Light for those around me, and I am currently doing that by providing consulting services that help organizations with their finances, people, and overall leadership."
What's new? "We recently started a nonprofit organization that is developing a Christian business conference right here in Fargo this November. Our mission is to nurture and equip character-driven leaders to live and lead like Jesus. Given the vibrant community and supportive environment in Fargo, we are optimistic about the potential to expand this conference to other cities across the United States."
Haylee Houkom
Owner, Power Plate Meals
Haylee Houkom is the co-founder and chief marketing officer of Power Plate Meals, a healthy, ready-to-eat meal prep company based in Fargo. Along with her husband, Seth Houkom, she started Power Plate Meals in 2015 with the aim of providing convenient, nutritious, and flavorful meals to busy individuals and families. The company has grown significantly, now operating nine retail locations and offering nationwide shipping, with meals available in over 100 grocery and micro-market sites across the upper Midwest.
What's new? "We are continuously working on expanding our brand through grocery stores and other wholesale avenues, which has been so much fun! Locally, you can now find our meals in Hornbacher's and Cash Wise when you do your weekly grocery shopping, in addition to hundreds of other grocery stores in the Midwest!"
Kent Kolstad
President, Livewire Entertainment
Kent Kolstad, the founder of Livewire, has been at the forefront of event production for 25 years, shaping the industry in Fargo and beyond. His passion for technology and live events fueled the growth of Livewire from a small startup into a leading event production company known for its innovative solutions and high-quality service. Kolstad's expertise has enabled Livewire to handle a wide range of events, from corporate gatherings to large-scale concerts and festivals, consistently delivering memorable experiences. His leadership and vision have been instrumental in adapting to the evolving demands of the event production industry.
What's new? "While we produce live events across the US nearly every week these days, we are excited to finally be expanding our brick-and-mortar footprint regionally in two cities, north and south of Fargo! More to come."
Amanda Shilling
Bodacious Brander/CEO, MINT Brand Marketing
Amanda Shilling is the CEO of her own marketing company which provides marketing strategy, writing, graphic design, event planning, media buying, public relations, and more.
What's new? "In addition to working with our awesome line-up of clients, we are working on some cool local collaborations that are currently under wraps. More to come on that. On top of that, I’m excited to be bringing a new approach to networking to the area for high-achieving business owners and leaders, focused on knowledge-sharing, and peer-to-peer mentoring, rooted in relationships and trust, for greater local impact, and opportunity for global connections."
Patrick Kirby
Founder, Do Good Better Consulting
"Patrick Kirby is the Founder of Do Good Better Consulting and a believer that 'we’ve always done it this way' is the most dangerous phrase in the English language. Patrick has spent over a decade working in nearly every capacity in the nonprofit industry, for organizations of all shapes and sizes, and strives to ‘Do Good Better’ every day. From organizing $10,000 cure walks to $1 million galas, Patrick’s passion lies in creating creative solutions to make fundraising less boring." -The Do Good Better Consulting Website
What's new? "We have expanded our client list that represents organizations from 12 states. We also just celebrated our 320th podcast and re-launched an online learning platform for nonprofits all across the country."
Jodi Duncan
President, Flint Group
Jodi Duncan's role at Flint Group involves analyzing data and market research, crafting strategies and proposals, liaising with clients, solving problems with employees, managing internal operations, and planning various projects.
What's new? "We are constantly looking at consumer behaviors and trends to stay ahead of how people consume marketing messages and interact with brands. That led us to a transformational offering helping our clients analyze and shape their customer experience through journey mapping. By digging into how customers connect emotionally to a brand, we can uncover areas of opportunity to shape and improve that experience from the consumer’s perspective. We are very excited about how this helps our clients develop stronger connections to their customers. It sounds easy but once you start digging in and truly understanding how customers experience your brand, you can really see where there are missed opportunities."
Meet The Commentators
Game Changing Business Apps & Software Game Changing Business Apps & Software
Ryan Fritz Ryan Fritz
Andrew J. Young Andrew J. Young
Kolstad Kent Kolstad
Zendesk
"My team tells me they really appreciate Zendesk. When I used to be more organized, I liked Asana to assign and add deadlines to my tasks and to others."
MeisterTask
"We help a lot of clients with implementing project management software and it's been a very important part of what we do... We use MeisterTask, but there are so many out there that are great. You just have to find one that works for your business, but you do need one. If you leave all of your things in email, you're not creating a sustainable business. If someone leaves the business, then all of the information for the projects they were working on is stuck in that email—it's harder to retrieve. You can eliminate that with project management... It's nice because there's no limit on file uploads... It's also nice to be able to know what hasn't been completed and what has been completed."
AI
"We talk about AI every week—we have a meeting dedicated to it. We have implemented AI—one thing we use is Photoshop's generative AI feature, which allows us to expand photos. We also use ChatGPT and I use a scheduling AI tool called Reclaim AI."
3D Printing
"We have a commercial 3D printer, which has been really fun for our businesses. It has been really amazing for us to be able to create prototypes. It's enabled us to create really custom gifts for clients. It's been able to help us test signage and create signage for clients... The use cases have been really cool."
Google Suite
"As a tech and audiovisual guy, I've got plenty of software recommendations to give, but I'm going to answer this in the opposite direction. I've seen many organizations that we work with quickly implement new, trendy software into their workflows, ultimately causing frustration and confusion among their teams. For example, I know of many organizations that have full subscriptions to Google Suite or Microsoft Office, but they still subscribe to and mandate usage of external apps like Slack, Dropbox, and Zoom, when they could be using Google Drive/Meet/Chat, or OneDrive/Teams. Not only could these organizations save money on software, but they could also make their teams' lives easier, too! Using Google Suite to the fullest extent possible has unified our processes at Livewire and made information sharing and communication a simple process."
Sarah West Sarah West
Trello
"Trello has been a game changer in enhancing our project management and workflow. Its intuitive boards, lists, and cards system allows our team to organize projects, tasks, and meetings with efficiency. This visibility has improved our ability to track progress and deadlines and helps us ensure nothing falls through the cracks."
QuickBooks Online
"The integration of QuickBooks Online has streamlined our financial processes significantly. It provides us with realtime visibility into our financial health, automates everyday accounting tasks, and simplifies payroll, which has been crucial for maintaining our cash flow and budgeting with precision. With QBO, we’ve optimized our financial tracking and reporting processes, enabling more detailed and real-time financial analysis."
Ramp Credit Cards
"Implementing Ramp credit cards has transformed our expense management. The integration of these cards with our financial software automates the entry and reconciliation of expenses, reduces manual work, and provides real-time spending insights. This not only saves time but also enhances our financial decision making."
Microsoft Teams
"Microsoft Teams has become essential for our team. It facilitates seamless collaboration through chat, video calls, and file sharing, all integrated into one platform. Teams has enabled us to maintain and strengthen team communication and collaboration regardless of physical location. Microsoft Teams has become more than just a communication tool for us; we've integrated it with many of our systems to make our workflows more cohesive."
Clockify
"Clockify has revolutionized the way we track time and analyze productivity. This tool allows our team members to track their work hours on different tasks and clients, providing insights into time allocation and efficiency. This visibility helps in optimizing workflows and improving time management across the board. Clockify’s features have been expanded within our company to not just track time but also to analyze productivity and project profitability. These continuous improvements in how we use these tools have significantly boosted our efficiency and operational capabilities."
Haylee Houkom Haylee Houkom
Meet The CommentatorsGame Changing Business Apps & Software Game Changing Business Apps & Software
Microsoft Teams
"We use this for all of our team communications needs—from distribution to operations, marketing, customer service, retail, and wholesale, we have a lot of moving parts, so having a platform to streamline everything and communicate through is key for our team."
CoSchedule
"CoSchedule is local to Fargo, which we love supporting, of course, but we also love what it has to offer. We utilize this platform to schedule all marketing needs for social media and email marketing purposes. It is super user-friendly and we love it!"
Canva
"Canva is amazing for many different reasons, but our marketing team loves it. We utilize the team feature too, so our team can create projects following brand guidelines and can approve projects right on the app. Plus, the templates and graphic design capabilities are endless!"
Shopify
"Shopify has been amazing for all website needs! From showcasing menus to online shopping, it's the best website platform we've used."
ClickUp
"ClickUp started as our Project Management system, and recently we uncovered its CRM capabilities. I’m guessing most business owners fall into the tech stack trap, so we continue to assess where we can streamline, where to invest, and where we can save."
"We recently shifted over to Canva for our proposals in light of their read receipt capability once a proposal is sent out. In doing so, we canceled a different app that we previously used which will save us
Amanda Amanda
Patrick Kirby Patrick Kirby
Meet The CommentatorsGame Changing Business Apps & Software Game Changing Business Apps & Software
Otter.ai
"We have regularly scheduled, and random out-of-the-blue meetings with current and potential clients all week—and when hopping from one conversation to the next without pausing and jotting down notes on what we discussed or what action steps we assigned out to them or ourselves, it can be overwhelming searching through chicken scratch notes taken on random scraps of paper. But using the Otter. ai transcription service, we can have a conversation and actually look into their virtual or real eyes which is much more engaging than a head-down, note-taking chat. It summarizes the conversation, can be used to track to-do’s for each participant, and has a mobile app to use when you’re at a coffee shop too."
Jodi Duncan
"As technology advances, we continue to leverage those evolutions to improve everything that we do from strategic planning to media buying to creative and everything in between. It touches every single aspect of our business. We are heavy into project management as we manage thousands of projects per year. Our ability to leverage our project management tool is strengthened by our need to be 'software agnostic' by using tools that our clients need us to use."
ChatGPT
"Sure everyone has used this language model to create blogs and social posts, and figure out what to have for dinner, but we’ve taught it to become a research tool and advice-giving robot that speaks and thinks like our brand. It has not only helped shape the way we produce proposals, but helps arrange reports and develop plans that are specific to the clients we work with. The investment in time to engineer prompts that give incredible results and draws on the nearly 10 years of content and experience we have in the fundraising realm is incredibly powerful."
Ninety
"We are big believers in Traction and follow that to enhance our leadership and business practices. Ninety is a program that helps you manage Traction meetings and record information and action resulting from those meetings. This has helped us stay organized and accountable as a leadership team."
ChatGPT
"ChatGPT continues to rock our marketing world. We are constantly looking at this tool and how we can effectively use it to improve efficiency and enhance creativity without adversely impacting uniqueness. We keep a close eye on the legalities of using artificial intelligence so that it’s used in a responsible manner."
Sprout Social
"Managing social content is incredibly challenging because it moves so quickly and there are many platforms. Using Sprout Social allows us to successfully plan, manage, and measure how multiple social spaces are performing for our clients."
Media Ocean
"We implemented this platform in 2023. This ecosystem has improved our ability to manage media on behalf of our clients resulting in smarter and more powerful media plans."
Jodi
Duncan
Meet The CommentatorsGame Changing Local Service Providers Game Changing Local Service Providers
Ryan Fritz Ryan Fritz
Andrew J. Young Andrew J. Young
Dakota Business Lending
"They have always supported us, and this business is run by a great man named Steve Dusek. We could not have accomplished so much without DBL allowing us to grow, from a financial and lendingsupport standpoint."
Bell Bank
"Bell Bank has always treated Office Sign Company with such professionalism, especially Doug Burchill. The service is often unmatched."
AdShark Marketing
"I enjoy the work and the people from Adshark Marketing. Especially when they pay for my golf, which is rare. My greatest fear is sharks, but these guys make me feel safe, most of the time."
Forum Communications Printing and Short Printer
"We like to use either of these companies for printing whenever we can."
Marco Technologies
"Marco has been a really valuable partner of ours."
Daily's Market
"Daily's Market is a convenience and grocery store in Downtown Fargo. We do a lot of client gifts and they have been amazing to work with in terms of anything we want to buy in bulk."
AdShark Marketing
"The only thing we don't do in-house is digital ad placement. So, we use AdShark and they've been a very reliable partner. Our mission and values really closely align."
BNG Team
"We use BNG Team for our point of sale system for all retail locations."
ColePapers
"From 2016 to now, ColePapers continues to work with us to help us find better supplies, containers, and products to improve our business."
Sarah West Sarah West
Bremer Bank
"Bremer Bank has been a cornerstone for our financial management and growth. Their tailored banking solutions and great customer service have ensured our financial operations are smooth and robust, supporting our business at every stage of growth."
Short Printer
"Short Printer consistently delivers high-quality printing services for our marketing materials. Their attention to detail and reliability in handling our printing needs have helped increase our brand's visual presentation and outreach."
Sign Badgers
"Sign Badgers has been instrumental in boosting our local visibility through creative and durable signage. Their custom solutions have not only increased our physical presence but also aligned seamlessly with our branding efforts."
North Dakota Women’s Business Center
"The ND Women’s Business Center has provided invaluable support through networking events, workshops, and one-onone advisory services. Their commitment to empowering local businesses like ours has been critical in navigating challenges and seizing growth opportunities."
Connect Interiors
"Connect Interiors has transformed our workspace with its innovative and ergonomic office solutions. Their focus on creating productive and aesthetically pleasing environments has greatly enhanced our team’s morale and efficiency."
DonorDock
"When we have questions about CRM’s for nonprofits, or need a bit of information on trends in data or reporting, there is no better business to work with. They have carved out this amazing position in the world of donations, communications, and data mining for small and medium-sized nonprofits better than anyone else, and are an incredible resource."
Mobile Pro
"Never have I ever worked with an AV Company that has had better perspective, creativity, and passion for what they do to create remarkable events. Brian Bestge and his team develop amazing chemistry with their clients and understand the art and science behind curating a memorable experience for guests. And they understand the nonprofit fundraising event landscape better than anyone else."
Patrick Kirby Patrick Kirby
Meet The Commentators
Game Changing Local Service Providers Game Changing Local Service Providers
Kent
Kolstad Kent Kolstad
Amanda Shilling
Amanda Shilling
Jodi Duncan Jodi Duncan
Nexus Consulting LLC
"We have worked with Craig Johnson for IT consulting and he has been great."
DevelopHR
"Cristy Jacobson has been our go-to here for everything HR."
MindShift
"We love the work that MindShift does leveraging the strengths of people on the autism spectrum and have had great success working with them in our business."
Allegro Group
"We’ve worked with Allegro Group on employee coaching and recruitment. They are fantastic at building high-performing teams and bringing calm to the storm that is typical in the agency business."
United Rentals
Wallwork Truck Center
Sunbelt Penske
Choice Bank/ Insurance Visto's Trailer Sales
Game Changing Book Recommendations Game Changing Book Recommendations
Ryan Fritz Ryan Fritz
Andrew J. Young Andrew J. Young
"Good to Great"
by Jim Collins
"Traction" by Gino
Wickman
"The Count of Monte Cristo" by Alexandre Dumas
"Influence, The Psychology of Persuasion"
by Robert Cialdini
"Without a doubt No. 1 for me. I was introduced to this book in college. I often say the contents in this book are 'the only things I learned in college' as I reference this book so often (to our team and to clients)."
"Who" by Goff Smart and Randy Street
"The Art of War" by Sun Tzu
"Creativity, Inc." by Ed Catmull
"Meditations" by Marcus Aureliust
"This is a great book that has me really looking into stoicism."
"Beyond Order, 12 More Rules for Life"
by Jordan Peterson
"This is just a great book to help give you context and insight for life."
The Bible
"The Bible, particularly the New Testament, has been foundational in guiding our leadership style toward servantbased leadership, which has proven very effective in today's work environment. It instills values that promote humility, service, and valuesbased leadership, which resonate deeply with our team and clientele."
"Radical Candor" by Kim Scott
"This is definitely a great book that addresses the question you asked me, 'Found any good ways to motivate team members?' Be honest. Be real. Get candor. Fun book to read."
"Hug Your Haters" by Jay Baer
"Again, not the BEST book I've read by any means, but a GREAT book to equip businesses with something 'they can implement tomorrow' around embracing customer complaints and keeping customers happy. I'd have to think the ROI for anyone who reads this is huge."
"Traction" by Gino Wickman
"Adopting the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) from this book has transformed our organizational structure. It has provided us with a powerful framework to stay focused, clarifying our company's vision, mission, and goals in a straightforward manner. This system has enhanced our internal communications and operational efficiency, ensuring everyone on the team is aligned and moving in the same direction."
"Stories that Stick" by Kindra Hall
"As a yearly read, this book continuously reinforces the power of storytelling in our communication strategy. Kindra Hall, a Concordia College alum, illustrates how engaging stories can captivate audiences and make our messages more memorable."
"The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success"
by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy
"'The Gap and The Gain: The High Achievers' Guide to Happiness, Confidence, and Success' by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy was recommended to me by my husband Jon Shilling, who has his own company. It has shifted how I think of where I am and where I want to be when it comes to scaling my business."
"10x Is Easier Than
"The Courage to be Disliked"
by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumatke Koga
"The book 'The Courage to be Disliked' by Ichiro Kishimi and Fumatke Koga has helped me shift my thinking more about what’s going right than what’s going wrong. When you look at our world today, the level of criticism and hate is fast and furious. Learning to tune out some of that is imperative to succeed. As leaders, you have to expect a certain level of “dislike” as part of the job. Making decisions that impact people’s lives is not for the faint of heart. By making bold decisions, there is a high likelihood that you will
"The Hobbit"
by J.R.R Tolkien
"Fundraising is all about storytelling, and visioning with potential donors and supporters, as well as crafting a world where your nonprofit is the hero of the community that helps solve social ills or woes. And J.R.R. Tolkien is the GOAT of world-building and storytelling. If you can vision cast with leaders in the community and help them imagine solutions to really hard problems... and that your organization is the vessel to make that positivity happen—what better way to learn how to tell a compelling story than with one of the best writers of all time."
"Who Not How: The Formula to Achieve Bigger Goals Through Accelerating Teamwork"
by Dan Sullivan
"Both are a solid blend of thinking differently and tactical takeaways to implement right away."
"We’ve learned to negotiate out of items in a contract that we have no use for, or, again, that we can tackle internally."
"One of the greatest hacks for cost saving measure is building relationships."
Ryan Fritz Ryan Fritz
"We try to purchase with intelligence, so we can pass any savings on to the customer. There is always a conversation on bulk pricing or shipping economically. As a manufacturer we strive to be self sufficient, almost to a fault, making anything and everything in house, to make use of the talent and skillsets on the team.
"Cost saving often comes down to attention to detail—I call it 'on the ground accounting.' When you become a multi million dollar sign company, you would be surprised at how bulk purchasing power can help your bottom line. Some days, you simply have to ask if a bulk order of supplies can be bought for less. I suppose I'm frugal like my Mom, but in a good way."
Amanda Shilling Amanda Shilling
Jodi Duncan Jodi Duncan Patrick Kirby Patrick Kirby
Game Changing Cost Saving Hacks Game Changing Cost Saving Hacks
Sarah West Sarah West
Kent Kolstad Kent Kolstad
"We actively manage our insurance to ensure we're getting the best rates for essential coverage."
"We also focus on building a positive work culture, which has proven to reduce turnover and control compensation costs, as employees often value a great work environment over higher pay."
"We've found that property ownership is more attainable than expected. With programs from the SBA, local economic initiatives, and the Bank of North Dakota, acquiring your own property can significantly cut long-term costs."
"Everything requires a subscription these days. While those costs are typically minimal up-front, they add up fast. We comb through our subscriptions roughly once per quarter to make sure our spending is minimized and that we are actually using the services we've subscribed to."
"Almost every major service provider out there has a wholesale/commercial extension of what they provide to day-to-day consumers; for us, it's working with wholesale fuel providers for our vehicle fleet, commercial travel services from airlines, and wholesale commercial lodging platforms to ensure we're maximizing every dollar we spend as we hit the road to produce events. If you don't know, ask! Often, many businesses don't share details about their commercial/wholesale services publicly... you just have to ask!"
Game Changing Marketing Tips Game Changing Marketing Tips
Andrew J. Young Andrew J. Young
Sarah West Sarah West
"You can have marketing work for you even when you don't have time to do it yourself. An example of this would be email marketing automization. That's one thing we assist a lot of our clients with—we help them develop a couple of email drips so that anytime they have a new customer sign up on their website to receive an email, they'll receive a set of 10 emails for the next year and not have to think about it."
"Data is king. We want people to willingly give us their information. One way to do that is having a prize or giveaway every month where you have to sign up on the website versus sharing social media posts... Some of the most useful pieces of data are email addresses and cell phone numbers. The other thing that we find, incredibly useful is mailing addresses. One thing we tell our clients is that because of Amazon, everybody is in their mailbox almost every, every day, if not every other day... There aren't many marketing platforms where you can gurantee the intended recepient will touch your piece of marketing. You can guarantee that almost any piece of mail you send them that they'll at least read the headline or cover."
"We keep our accounts fun. We consistently post about the fun and engaging work environment at our company. This not only boosts our team's morale but also attracts prospective employees who align with our company culture. This tactic has been a tremendous success, resulting in a bench of 22 individuals who want to work for us when positions become available."
Game Changing Marketing Tips Game Changing Marketing Tips
Haylee Houkom Haylee Houkom
Kent Kolstad Kent Kolstad
"We've expanded our wholesale and grocery store offerings and as we've done this, we've been very intentional about showcasing the new locations offering our meals."
"Instgram reels and videos have been really important for us."
"Oddly enough, in-store events have remained a staple for us. I don't think you can makeup for face-to-face interactions."
Patrick Kirby
"Word of mouth is so important. Encourage clients, team members, and friends and family to share about your business—get them excited!"
"Support FM's nonprofits! Giving back in this community gets noticed— rightly so—and feels great, too."
"If you're going to use an ad agency or media company (magazines, radio, TV, newspaper), trust them. They know what they do better than you do. Teach them about your industry and let them help you take it to the next level."
"Don't throw your money away on marketing. Is there a clear potential ROI on that ad spend? What is it? When will you see it materialize? If you can't answer these questions, question the need to spend the money."
"Community involvement and giving back is part of who I am, even when I was an employee of other businesses. And now, as a business owner, from a tactical perspective, this gets our brand out there in a positive way, while helping others. Win, win."
"Our social media truly represents who we are and we are super intentional about that. People, both potential clients and potential hires, have been drawn to us because they can feel who we are through the screen. It’s a team effort and I’m proud of my team."
"Random notes of gratitude might be the most influential way we connect with our partners and clients. No ask. No pitch. No sales. Just genuine gratitude for the work they do, the impact they make and the acknowledgment they make a difference. You never know what kind of day anyone is having—but a simple note of authentic appreciation with zero expectations of an ROI is the key to enhancing engagement. Let me put it this way—if every time you pick up the phone, you ask for a donation or need for business, your potential or current client will always know exactly what you want. But random outreach of gratitude or updates on how they have made your community a better place to live—the next time you reach out, they won’t know what delightful conversation they will get. You keep them engaged by keeping them guessing with authentic appreciation."
Jodi Duncan Jodi Duncan Patrick Kirby Patrick Kirby
"Geofencing. When done correctly, it’s cost-effective and performs well."
"Micro-influencers are such a great way to build your brand without the craziness or cost of a celebrity influencer."
"Dashboards and analytics help ensure that your marketing campaigns are meeting your KPIs easier than ever if you are measuring performance, adjusting and optimizing marketing strategies based on that."
"Brand refresh. People have so many marketing messages coming at them, it’s critical for businesses to update their brands more frequently than in the past. A brand refresh can often do the trick to infuse new enthusiasm for the brand."
"Niche down. We were getting to the point where we were trying to be everything to everyone, and in turn, watered down our services and didn’t concentrate on what we were really good at! We picked three things and pushed all the rest to the side, and things exploded because potential clients understood more clearly how we could be a partner to them in helping them raise money!"
"Concentrate less on vanity metrics. We stopped basing success and potential growth on 'likes' and 'opens' and moved to work with those that loved what we do, rather than chasing those who didn’t have interest and trying to prove we were worthy of time and attention. That cortisol rush was a serious addiction to overcome, but once we moved away from it, we became more engaged with more clients who wanted and needed us."
"Speak everywhere. The best way to engage our potential audience is to stand on stage, or podcast in the ears of nonprofits who need to hear our message. We started small and now get the opportunity to present in front of audiences we never imagined being invited to speak in front of!"
"We try to do a client gift every month—a small gift to all of our clients. If we don't do it every month, we try to do it every two or three months for sure. Last month, we printed battery trays for our clients using our 3D printers. Some of the gifts aren't expensive and they don't have to be... For us, they're meant as a way for our clients to get to know us just as much as they are for us to keep our relationships active and warm."
Game Changing Customer Engagement and Game Changing Customer Engagement and
Ryan Fritz
"I’m not sure if software like TrustPilot is unique, but honest feedback from our customers does help us connect with the customer and understand when we do things right or when we do not meet our expecations."
Sarah
West
Cost-Saving Expertise
"We ensure our services are a net positive for our clients by identifying tax savings and financing programs that keep more money within their businesses than what they spend on our fees."
Prioritizing Relationships
"At our company, relationships take precedence over transactions. We aim to be the first call our clients make, whether they have good or bad news. This ensures we are partners in every sense, walking alongside them through all business seasons."
Comprehensive Solutions
"Our ability to manage every aspect of accounting, from cleanup to process implementation and execution, makes it hard for clients to leave us."
Network of Experts
"Over the last 20 years, I have built a network of top-tier bankers, CPAs, attorneys, and insurance agents. By matching our clients with professionals who align with their responsiveness and risk tolerance, we enhance our value and their business stability."
Emotional Support
"Recognizing that dealing with finances is often an emotional undertaking, we go beyond mere number-crunching to support our clients emotionally, helping them manage the stress and responsibility that come with financial decisions."
Haylee Houkom
"We started offering a rewards program in our retail locations."
"We have started working with influencers to expand our brand and increase customer loyalty."
"We offer weekly and bi-weekly online subscriptions."
"We curate social media content showcasing our meals, our team, and what we do behind the scenes."
"Being involved in our communities has been important for us. We do this through events and donating food to local charities and partnering with schools to help kids and families in need."
Kent Kolstad
"Work to build trust and clear communication between customers and your whole team, not just you. Your company matters to the customer—not you. If it's just you they trust, your team and your company will never be able to deliver on your behalf."
Amanda Shilling
"We are B.S. free and legitimately care about our clients. These may not seem 'unique' but the feedback is that it’s refreshing and one of the many reasons people continue to work with us."
Jodi Duncan
Talk to your customers!
" It sounds so simple but, as a society, we’ve quit talking to people and building relationships."
Measure feedback
"An NPS (net-promoter score) or some form of formalized feedback is helpful in enhancing customer loyalty."
Customer appreciation
"Customer appreciation is always a smart strategy even if it’s a simple 'thank you' note."
Share point of view
"Share point of view information intended to be helpful and educational."
Provide ideas
"Proactively provide ideas that can help grow customers’ businesses."
Employee Motivation Employee Motivation
Andrew J. Young
"I've learned that when we come to work every day and we bring ideas to the table, we are fulfilled by seeing our ideas used and valued... If as an employee, you come with an idea and get to see it being used and valued by customers, that is very thrilling."
"Many years ago, while working with Diane Sawyer in New York City, I learned a great, simple tip that you should try your best to be somone who people want to work with."
Meet The CommentatorsEmployee Motivation Employee Motivation
Sarah West
"Our approach to employee motivation has been largely influenced by insights from Marcus Buckingham's book, 'Love + Work.' In it, we find validation for our leadership style which focuses on leveraging individual strengths rather than fitting a person into a predefined role. Instead of trying to remedy their weaknesses, we identify what Buckingham refers to as their 'wyrd' (their unique talents) and assign tasks that enhance these strengths. At first, this method can confuse people, as they're not used to environments that don't seek to change them. It's magical to watch them flourish when they engage in work that aligns with their innate abilities. This strategy not only boosts motivation but also leads to profound satisfaction as employees thrive using their God-given talents."
Haylee Houkom
"We love fun competitions for rewards. Our retail team loves to make monthly challenges that motivate them at work and to have fun, friendly competition with co-workers. Our team can get pretty competitive!"
Kent Kolstad
"Trust. I see so many organizations around Fargo-Moorhead that are well-managed but micromanaged. Unleash the potential of your team and trust their ideas, skills, and passions. You may have to step in every now and then, and you may have to course correct, but what if they soar?"
Amanda Shilling
"Getting to know your team is so important. I don’t do superficial, and lead from a space of authenticity and vulnerability. It’s pretty incredible how much simply caring about people helps motivate them to do right by your business, and ultimately your clients."
Jodi Duncan
"We recently asked all of our employees to fill out a questionnaire on our HR platform indicating how they like to be recognized. There are extreme variances in how people feel about internal and external validation. What is meaningful to one person may not resonate at all with someone else. Getting feedback directly from our employees has helped us to personalize our motivational efforts."
Patrick Kirby
Unlimited PTO and a results-only work environment. No restrictions for time off is a delightful fad in the HR world—but when you actually care more about the quality of work than the amount of time it takes to do it, you end up with extreme flexibility that actually cares more about the people who work with you over the bottom line. Spoiler alert: When you care more about the people you work with, your revenue grows. It takes constant communication and trust in your employees—which makes you a better employer, boss, and human. Which makes your place of employment a place that everyone wants to be a part of."
SBA Leader and Whitehouse Cabinet Member Sees ND as Important Ag Hub
Q: Why are you in North Dakota?
A: We've launched a rural tour around America as well as a small business tour to lift up our small business successes in helping to propel economic recovery, as well as build the future of everything from manufacturing to tech. In this case, [we're] excited to lift up AgTech in particular [and] celebrate the work of a growth accelerator from the SBA to Grand Farm and [to] see how they and their businesses are doing.
Q: Have you had any previous involvement with Grand Farm?
the morning of Tuesday, July 2, Administrator Isabel Casillas Guzman, head of the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), a position which makes her the head of small businesses in President Biden's cabinet, had the opportunity to tour the newly opened Grand Farm Innovation Shop and talk to local entrepreneurs about their businesses.
The SBA Administrator leads the SBA to oversee programs that support small businesses with funding, counseling, and advocacy. The SBA sets policies, manages resources, and advocates for small business interests in government. Their role ensures that small businesses receive the necessary support for growth and success, engaging with stakeholders to address concerns and promote economic development nationwide. This stop at Grand Farm is part of Administrator Guzman's Small Business Boom Tour, which aims to educate entrepreneurs about the resources available to them through the SBA and to celebrate past SBA successes.
We were able to sit down and chat with her to learn more about her role and ND's position in ag and small business.
By Brady Drake | Geneva Nodland
Q: So, is this more of an attempt to educate yourself by getting boots on the ground and seeing what's going on?
A: Definitely for North Dakota, this is my first visit to the state. So, I'm excited to learn more about the unique opportunities that are on the ground here. And, of course, [I] have had extensive travel in rural communities, especially in rural California, where I'm from. And, [I've] spent a lot of time in the rural communities as focused on small business. But, this is a full day where we're going [to] have multiple small business stops, including [a stop at] our 2023 Small Business of the Year, Red E... We're excited to lift up some of these legacy stories as well as small business stories and focus in on this specific innovation clustering that's happening around agriculture at Grand Farm.
A: No, we have not... But it has [been] exciting to see them win the growth accelerator phase one directly and [we're] looking forward to learning more about their operations. I know when we look at feeding the future and making sure that we have strong food production in this country, this is a key state and we hope to continue to try and develop innovation here and really promote some of the federal resources that are available to make sure that the community is fully leveraging those resources to help their entrepreneurs.
Q: What are some resources available through the SBA that you think people aren't as aware of as they should be?
A: In addition to the lending [and] investment products that we have, [we have] the step grants for trade abroad, which I know many small businesses in the state participate [in]. We also really focus heavily on innovative startups. And that's by Powering America Seed Fund, which is [The Small Business Innovation Research] SBIR [and Small Business Technology Transfer] STTR grant awards. That $4 billion a year is nondilutive funding for small businesses who are innovating. And this is a program that we'd like to see cultivated here in North Dakota... We've awarded, in the past, a fast grant to the state to try to help direct more SBIR.
What is the growth accelerator phase one?
The SBA Growth Accelerator Fund Competition Phase One is a program by the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) that awards up to $50,000 to organizations for their ecosystem-building activities.
We'd love to see some ag examples— there is, for example, one exact success story in North Dakota around SBIR. They deploy low-cost flight data recorders for light aircraft—that was their development and we'd like to see more in the ag space in particular to see if we can replicate some of the successes we've had around the country in agtech. This is an important sector. The USDA is a big funder under SBIR and with our partnership and MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) that we launched last year with USDA to better align SBA's products with USDA to help small businesses, particularly in rural communities, we hope to direct some of this funding, as well as broadly the SBA resources that help all small businesses and the native startups, manufacturing, [and] main street really grow their businesses.
Of course, this is a celebration of the rural tour in particular with Grand Farm, but I think more broadly as we're visiting with businesses around the state, [we're] really focusing on the small business boom. There have been over 18 million new business office applications done by the BidenHarris administration. This is a strong reversal of and a return to business dynamism in this country and that is exciting to see, but we also see [this] in North Dakota with 28,000, new business applications filed—that's
a strong number of new individuals jumping in to start their business. We want to make sure that they're resourced and connected and aware of SBA offerings at sba.gov, so we appreciate being able to get on the ground and talk to businesses and amplify the successes.
Q: What do you think the reasons for that boom are?
A: I think it's multiple factors. And we're seeing this across the country, across multiple industries... What we do know is that, obviously, the pandemic was one example of an impetus where you had people during the Great Recession, rethink what they were doing with their lives, [they were] really thinking about their life-work balance, their professional journeys, and a lot of people had to make that decision at that time to jump in and start their businesses. There are also opportunities people are seeking. We're seeing a lot of folks in the professional service, and technology services sector, as well as in the digital e-commerce space. We saw businesses adopting e-commerce at such high rates—it really connects businesses to the world global trade and so [we're] excited to see those businesses really taking off as I do think that they're heavy investments being made that touch those categories.
The investments in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act—those are contracts for small businesses to win. Those are opportunities for funds to be distributed locally and benefit main streets as well. The investments in chips and manufacturing and supply chains and innovation are at historic highs as well. So, those numbers and the type of support that we're seeing for small businesses to engage in those activities with SBA lending small-dollar loans... and our lending programs really being revitalized is really a strong support for small businesses because we are focused on startups at the SBA.
Q: In your role, what do you think still needs the most work done as far as getting things to where they need to be so that we can best support all these small businesses?
A: Part of our reforms, during [the] Biden-Harris [administration] have been focused on simplifying our products so that they're more accessible to not only small businesses but our incredible private partners, the lenders, who are part of the SBA network. Funding is king for small businesses. They need to be able to access funding to start and to add to their own resources,
[We're] really growing our networks... [With the growth accelerator] we have deployed this federal network of over 1,200 centers and supports, including in North Dakota where we want to see small businesses get the tools and resources [they need] because it's about your skill sets [and] your toolbox to be able to address the challenges and problems that hit every day. And, we've seen our small businesses really face enormous challenges. We look back to starting in COVID, where they had to pivot and adapt to survive and rebuild. [We've seen] their resilience going forward with dealing with supply chain challenges, inflationary pressures, workforce challenges, you name it. I think SBA's resources, whether that's our Small Business Development Centers, Women's Business Centers that we have on the ground in North Dakota, our Veterans Business Outreach Center, or school partners that are throughout the state, we know that those resources make a difference on success outcomes. So, we've really been focused on building those partnerships and trying to find partners to build that awareness. The businesses I'm visiting today, many of them have graduated from our Thrive program, or Emerging Leaders, as we used to call it. This is
an intensive training to help give them those tools and resources and it just demonstrates that the SBA's potential to really help small businesses grow.
Q: I was reading about the Working Capital Pilot Program that's set to launch. Why did you guys decide to go ahead with that?
A: We wanted to make sure that our products are meeting businesses where they are today, and I think that working capital continues to be an often-cited challenge for small businesses to get affordable working capital lines. Many of them use their credit card debt, as we know, to be able to finance growth and when we're seeing these historic investments in infrastructure—North Dakota has $2.6 billion in funding to date—and the private investment that is being leveraged as well to match the investments in manufacturing and innovation—there's been over $2 billion in the states to date as well. Small businesses need to get the financing they need to go after those contracts or opportunities and working capital continues to be a big challenge. We're trying to power on an ongoing basis, doing business with the federal government—those
contracts require businesses to be ready and able to finance and grow to meet the demands and needs of a contract. So, that's a huge area of opportunity for us to improve the experience for small businesses and really see the growth. So, we're excited to be rolling that out with our lending partners and helping more small businesses beyond our current programs, which many are already being leveraged for working capital, but the Working Capital Pilot Program better aligns the fee structure and terms to support a true working capital life.
Q: If you were to look out 10 years in the future, how do you envision small businesses interacting with the SBA?
A: I've told my team that we need to be as entrepreneurial as the small businesses that we serve. Obviously, there's going to be a continuous evolution of challenges. Small business owners will tell you that every day there's a new challenge that they face—so, making sure that they have the skills and resources [they need] and that we're adapting and continuously iterating on our products to meet market demands [is important]. SBA was founded
to fill market gaps, and so we constantly assess and make sure that we're filling those needs for small businesses—especially underserved communities [like] rural communities. There are 1,600 banking deserts for example. We need to see the SBA continue to grow its lending networks, with our banks, credit unions, but as well as our mission lenders and alternative lenders so that we can get all of our resources out into communities equitably around the country. And so hopefully, we continue to grow in those realms of simplifying and creating products and services that meet market demands with a broader network for more competition and innovation.
Q: How do you think being boots on the ground like this helps you in your role?
A: I come from a small business family and grew up in small businesses. I've started my own small businesses, and being able to speak with entrepreneurs constantly on the ground, really, truly gives me inspiration, of course, to continue to do the hard work at the SBA, but it, obviously, also offers me incredible insights. With the feedback that I get from entrepreneurs, we've been able to make tweaks and improvements in our products that make a difference. I attribute being on the ground. the way that we get out and celebrate the successes and build awareness for those new business sites, as well as established businesses, and help them become aware of the SBA, and what we can do for them because I do think it is my responsibility to get out there and market and promote the resources of the federal government
so that more small businesses feel that they're accessible to them with for the growth of their businesses.
Q: What are your thoughts on Grand Farm after getting a tour?
A: I'm super excited because they've really been able to leverage multiple federal programs and agencies to be able to, hopefully, see more innovation and commercialization. But more importantly, becoming the national center and leader in ag innovation. That seems like the trajectory they're on, which is exciting. The other thing is that I want to make sure that awareness of resources is top and center in my visit today.
The fact that the success of the SBIR program is still to come—we need to get more of the innovators here, applying for and winning these federal grants. That is still clearly a problem and one of the top priorities here. So, I'm excited to see how we can be more helpful. That's what the accelerator grant is all about as well—to make sure that they can have better access to us to be able to learn how to leverage the agencies doing SBIR.
Q: You mentioned during your talk with the Grand Farm leaders that you have been to some other places like this?
A: We were talking about who else is leading in this space around innovation that they partnered with. They mentioned, the St. Louis area, and a couple of others, but I talked about one that was in California as well. I think the advantage here is that they actually have plots because
I often hear from farmers that they have all these tech companies coming in pitching them to try to test their innovations and it can be disruptive and not as fruitful. Sometimes the tech doesn't work. So to have actual test plots I think is really special.
Q: Is there anything else you'd like to say to our readers?
A: This is a small business boom and so many entrepreneurs are jumping in finally taking that leap to start a business. It takes incredible risk appetite and bravery. But then as you proceed with a startup, it takes a lot of tenacity. It takes a lot of hard work and effort and the SBA is here to really here to be part of that team. And I want people to really know that sba.gov, our district team that's on the ground, our resource partners that are fueled locally, are here to help them in that journey and to make sure that we can connect them to the capital and the networks that are needed. And so sba.gov/lendermatch [providers] resources and tools that people can use in their own free time to really learn about entrepreneurship and what the SBA can do for them. So I just want to encourage everyone to come and see what's available. There are grants to trade abroad and get your business internationalized. [There are] grants for innovation as SBIR dollars. [There are] funding loans and investments that we have in our portfolio as well as just the knowledge and know-how and people behind you to help you thrive.
DATADRIVEN SUCCESS
Elevate Your Career with Concordia's MSQM Program!
a time when data reigns supreme, Concordia College has introduced innovation and forward-thinking education with its new graduate program, Management Science & Quantitative Methods (MSQM). This program is built to empower professionals across all sectors to navigate and excel in a data-driven world. By merging strategic decision-making with robust analytical tools, the MSQM program promises to enhance careers and reshape industries—with data comprehension at the focal point. Whether you're looking to ascend to leadership roles or pivot to a career in analytics, Concordia's MSQM is a great option for you.
Concordia College's MSQM program is an online graduate course tailored for working professionals who are eager to harness data-driven decisionmaking in business settings. Students learn through real-life scenarios including optimizing marketing strategies or enhancing operational efficiencies. The curriculum covers strategic analysis, leadership, and quantitative methods. Graduates can expect to apply these skills in roles such as financial managers, data analysts, or marketing directors, effectively using data to drive business growth and strategic decisions.
Let's take a deeper look.
Who?
• Designed For: Working professionals who need a flexible, online format to enhance decision-making and leadership skills in various industries, like professionals across sectors like finance, marketing, and technology. It's particularly beneficial for mid-career professionals looking to pivot to leadership roles or deepen their strategic capabilities.
• The Benefits: This program equips graduates to effectively analyze complex data, anticipate market trends, and make informed decisions that align with corporate goals. It's especially useful for aspiring managers and senior analysts who aim to leverage data in strategic planning and operational improvements.
What?
• Focus: The program addresses the growing need for strategic and quantitative competencies in today’s data-rich business landscape. It's meticulously created to empower professionals at various stages of their careers to harness strategic, data-driven decisionmaking skills.
• The Skills: Beyond data analytics, the curriculum builds crucial leadership abilities, preparing students to navigate and lead in the complex global business environment.
By Geneva Nodland
A Quick Look
Duration: 2 years to complete
Format: 100% online coursework
Credits: 35 graduate credits
Where?
• Format: Fully online to fit the dynamic lives of working professionals. Learning can happen anywhere, anytime without compromising on quality or engagement.
• Accessibility: Designed for maximum flexibility. By removing physical and time constraints, the MSQM program democratizes access to high-quality education, allowing individuals anywhere to advance their careers without significant lifestyle disruptions.
When?
• Program Start: Enrollment opens annually, with courses designed to accommodate a working professional's schedule, enabling students to manage education alongside their career responsibilities.
• Graduation Timeline: The MSQM is structured to be completed in just two years, offering a fast track to advanced skills and a competitive edge in the business world.
Why?
• The Comparison: Concordia’s MSQM stands out not only in the region but within the nation. It provides an educational experience comparable to elite institutions like NYU and Duke but with greater accessibility and significantly lower costs.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Offering an affordable pathway to expertise in management science, this program promises a high return on investment, opening doors to career advancement without the burden of excessive debt.
How?
• Requirements: Applicants should meet the prerequisites to show academic readiness and professionalism, including a bachelor’s degree with at least a 3.0 GPA, a comprehensive resume, a thoughtful essay, and recommendations.
• The Process: The application process is designed to be thorough, ensuring that all candidates are well-suited for the challenges and rigors of the program, promising a cohort of motivated and capable professionals.
Who (Part 2)
• The Faculty: The program's faculty are not only educators but at the same time active professionals and researchers, providing insights from the latest in scholarly work and industry best practices.
• Recognition: With accolades and recognitions on both national and international stages, the faculty’s expertise enriches the learning experience, offering students insights that span global perspectives.
The MSQM program is designed to be a career launcher, ideal for General/Operations Managers, Supervisors, and Business Owners!
What (Part 2)
• Specialized: Each course in the curriculum is specifically engineered for the MSQM, ensuring that all academic content and learning is targeted, relevant, and directly transferable to professional contexts.
• Relevant: The curriculum is dynamically aligned with current industry standards and future trends, ensuring that students are prepared to meet emerging challenges head-on.
Why (Part 2)
• The Methods: The program utilizes a diverse array of teaching tools, from Harvard Case Studies to hands-on simulations and databases filled with real-world data, enhancing the learning experience.
• Application: The capstone project bridges theory and practice, providing a platform for students to demonstrate their mastery of the curriculum by addressing actual business issues.
As we look towards a future where decision-making processes are increasingly complex and data-centric, Concordia College’s MSQM program can be a boost to anyone aiming to lead with insight and precision.
By Brady Drake
By Brady Drake
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE SERIES
ffice space and warehousing are crucial components of any business's operational infrastructure. Office spaces, in particular, provide a physical location where employees can collaborate, innovate, and drive the company's goals forward. The layout, location, and environment of office spaces significantly impact productivity, company culture, and employee satisfaction.
In an era where businesses are continually adapting to new economic realities and technological advancements, the demand and utilization of office space are constantly evolving. Understanding trends in office space growth and occupancy is vital for businesses to make informed decisions about their real estate investments, operational strategies, and future growth plans.
In this issue, we will highlight various aspects of the commercial real estate space and we plan to include commercial real estate content in most issues for the foreseeable future. Is there something you want us to cover? Email Brady Drake at brady@spotlightmediafargo.com
By Brady Drake | Josiah Kopp
MEET THE DEVELOPERS
JBC Commercial Real Estate
JIM BUUS
By Brady Drake | Josiah Kopp
MEET THE DEVELOPERS
Goldmark Commercial Real Estate, Inc.
ANDY WESTBY
with Andy Westby
A: Technically speaking, our firm assists others in developing real estate, as we do not engage in local development ourselves to avoid competing with our clients. I transitioned into commercial brokerage in 2015 after spending over 15 years in the software and technology industry. The travel and corporate grind had worn me down, and I was eager to work more directly with local businesses and owners. Commercial real estate proved to be the perfect fit to do just that.
In late 2019, I assumed the role of president and managing broker. Since then, we have rebuilt our brokerage team, developed a detailed market analytics platform, and launched Goldmark Design & Development (GDD), which is led by Nate Vollmuth. GDD offers comprehensive architectural design and development services, including master planning, preliminary site layouts, cost estimating, detailed architectural plans, city permitting, construction bidding, and much more.
As Confucius said, "Choose a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life." I can truly say that has been my experience. I wouldn't trade this job for the world!
development projects across the Fargo-Moorhead metro, including:
• The Crossroads: This 50+ acre site sits in the epicenter of the FM metro and is adjacent to both I-94 and I-29. With over 144,000 vehicles passing by each day, this site features the highest combined traffic counts in the entire state of North Dakota! Lot sizes can range from 0.7-10+ acres to support a large mix of uses, including professional office, medical, retail, technology, education, and more. This central location is less than 10 minutes from nearly anywhere in the Fargo-Moorhead metro!
• Urban Plains: Urban Plains offers 50+ acres of opportunity to buy, build, or lease in one of Fargo's most premier in-fill developments. Urban Plains combines commercial, retail office, medical, event centers, multiple dwelling housing, and condo and town home development in a unique and lively mixed-use community. Conveniently located between Veterans Boulevard and 45th Street South, this area is poised for tremendous growth.
Other attractive land development sites our firm represents include:
• 1-2 acre high visibility commercial land sites on 32nd Ave and 42nd St S.
• 60+ acres of land in West Fargo, which are zoned for heavy industrial development.
• 30+ acres of commercial land in The District off 52nd Ave and the newly installed stretch of 45th St S.
• Numerous light industrial lots near the Main Avenue and I-94 exchange in West Fargo.
• Multiple commercial/retail land sites in Mapleton in the growing Maple River Town Square development.
• 50+ acres of raw commercial land directly on I-29 and the new 64th St. overpass near the new Sanford Sports Complex.
• 320 acres of raw land with rail access for future industrial growth on the north side of the metro.
• 13+ acres of multi-family land in Moorhead on Highway 52 with easy access to I-94.
A: For Land, our firm is currently representing over 15 exciting land
• I-94 Development Land: We are also representing the owners of 20+ acres of prime development land on I-94 in West Fargo. This highly visible 20+ acres is adjacent to Costco, Duluth Trading Company, and River's Bend at the Preserve. This is a great opportunity for a large corporate office center or multiple retail stores.
• There are a few other new but not-yet-announced land developments we will be excited to share more about in the months to come!
MEET THE DEVELOPERS ANDY WESTBY
For Buildings, our firm is currently representing nearly 100 existing buildings for sale or for lease across the Fargo-Moorhead metro, including:
• 17,000 sq. ft. of office space along I-29 south of West Acres Mall, currently occupied by Sanford Health Plan.
• The former 8,000 sq. ft. of high-end shop and office property owned and previously occupied by YouBetcha in South Fargo near 32nd Ave and 42nd St S.
• 5,000 to 17,000 sq. ft. spaces in the Class A and superbly located Perficient Tower off I-94 and 45th St S.
• 12,000 sq. ft. in the brand new Vance Thompson Vision medical center on I-94 near Costco.
• New and existing industrial developments in North Fargo, West Fargo, and Moorhead ranging from 2,000 to 40,000 sq. ft.
• A 44,000+ sq. ft. industrial complex in Moorhead off Main Avenue near Menards.
• New shop condo developments off Thunder Road and in West Fargo off Main Avenue and I-94.
• The vacant Burger King restaurant and drive-thru off I-29 and 13th Ave S.
• Multiple retail spaces for lease around South Fargo, West Fargo and North Fargo including suites at Urban Plains, Uptown & Main, Western Center, Village West, Homestead Mall, Promenade Mall, The Pointe on 13th, Liberty Square, Times Square, Town Square Village, The Bison Block, Eagle Run Plaza, South Creek Center, and Trollwood Village.
• Multiple office buildings for lease in downtown Fargo and the SW metro including 23 and 102 Broadway, the Historic Union, The Radisson Tower, The Professional Building, Sundance Office Park, Bluestem Office Park, Woodhaven Plaza, Apex Business Center, and Bluemont Lakes Financial Center.
• Multiple new office spaces in beautifully designed bank branches, including Bank Forward on Veterans Blvd, FCCU locations on 52nd Ave, and their new location in Moorhead.
A: At Goldmark Commercial Real Estate, we believe our role extends well beyond facilitating commercial real estate transactions. At the most basic level, we contribute to the local community by assisting
businesses across numerous industries in acquiring, selling, and leasing commercial properties. Through these efforts, we help businesses create and sustain jobs, which is fundamental to economic growth and stability in our region.
Also, our significant involvement in the development of small and large land sites helps enhance local amenities and infrastructure, thereby improving the quality of life for our community.
Furthermore, we are proud to donate a portion of our brokerage profits to area nonprofits through a recently launched Giving Hearts Day match program offered to every client from the past year. This initiative helps further the mission of local charities that are near and dear to our clients' hearts.
Through these efforts, Goldmark Commercial Real Estate strives to be a catalyst for positive change in the Fargo-Moorhead metro. Our expert agents, known for their integrity and professionalism, help create an environment where businesses and our community can thrive together.
MEET THE DEVELOPERS ANDY WESTBY
A: Recently, the biggest challenges for our clients have undoubtedly been the high construction costs and the rising interest rate environment we have experienced over the past year. These factors have forced many businesses and investors to put their plans on hold, as not all projects are as financially viable as they once were.
However, our region has fared far better than most. Commercial real estate transactions are occurring, especially in the owner-occupier market, with overall commercial sales and leasing activity levels well above national averages. We are fortunate to have a diverse and robust business environment in this part of the Red River Valley, which helps to moderate the lows and maintain a stable economic environment.
nearly 30 predictions we made:
• Total commercial real estate sales across the FM metro will be down less than 10% year over year (in 2023 they were UP 12.6% across all categories).
• Commercial permit values will be up in West Fargo, but down in Fargo and Moorhead.
• Land for office development will be down and office vacancy rates will go up.
• Industrial and retail vacancy rates will continue to go down with asking rents up.
• Permits for new multi-family units will be down while existing sales will be up.
• Capatalization rates on investment sales will plateau after increasing in the past 1224 months
• Ag land acres sold in Cass County will be down.
You can view the entire presentation and all of our 2024 predictions at: youtube.com/@ goldmarkcommercial
Estate is to continue delivering the highest levels of client service while innovating and improving our market tracking and analysis capabilities. We aim to provide our clients with unrivaled access to information, empowering them to make well-informed decisions.
Another strategic goal for our brokerage is to enhance our marketing capabilities and technology toolset. We plan to integrate cutting-edge AI tools and advanced technology systems that will streamline processes, improve accuracy, and offer deeper insights into market trends. By leveraging these new technologies, we aim to provide more targeted, efficient, and effective marketing strategies for our clients' property sale and lease listings. This will not only increase visibility for our clients but also attract more qualified buyers and tenants, ensuring the best possible outcomes for each transaction we handle.
Finally, we also want to strengthen our community engagement. This involves not only continuing our financial support to local nonprofits but also increasing our direct involvement in community projects that contribute to the economic and social betterment of the region we serve.
A: At our annual Commercial Connect event held in early March, we made several predictions for 2024. Here is just a sample of the
A: Our primary long-term goal at Goldmark Commercial Real
GOLDMARK COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE, INC.
By Brady Drake | Josiah Kopp
MEET THE DEVELOPERS
KEVIN CHRISTIANSON
Kevin Christianson
CHRISTIANSON
By Brady Drake | submitted by Kilbourne Group
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ADVICE
Q Can you tell us about your background and experience in commercial real estate
A: I graduated from North Dakota State University (NDSU) in 2014 with a degree in public relations and advertising.. My first full-time job after NDSU was an Office Manager at a Commercial Brokerage in town. From there, I became a licensed REALTOR® in July of 2015, and I have loved my career in the industry ever since.
Q What current trends are you observing in the commercial real estate market
A: So far this season, I have seen an increase in searches for retail spaces. Many of my clients are ready to jump into entrepreneurship or are looking to open second locations. Nothing beats a Saturday afternoon walking around shopping with friends and family and I think they see the value in being a part of the community with a physical space beyond just an online presence.
Q What are the key factors business owners should consider when looking for commercial property
A: There are many different costs associated with your monthly expenses and every lease is different when it comes to what is covered by the Landlord versus the Tenant. Many of my clients are excited to get going on construction and opening, which is, of course, all the fun stuff! But we can’t overlook some of
these expenses, which is where I come in. I help them navigate exactly what they are responsible for paying for and what the costs will be.
Q What are some common challenges your clients face, and how do you recommend they handle them
A: One of the most common challenges is waiting for the perfect space to come along. My recommendation is to be patient, but also be ready for to be creative; we will find you the perfect space!
Q What are the advantages and disadvantages of leasing versus buying commercial real estate
A: Buying is investing in your future— every monthly mortgage payment is adding to the building’s equity—minus interest. Leasing is also a really good option if you want the flexibility to move in the future and will take out the risk of unexpected major building expenses.
Q In what situations would you recommend leasing, and in what situations would you recommend buying
A: Every business is unique. It really depends on your situation and long-term goals. Overall, I’d say if you can buy, it’s always a good investment for the future.
CLAIRE SMITH Asset Manager Specialist, Kilbourne
COMMERCIAL REAL ESTATE ADVICE
WITH CLAIRE SMITH
Q What predictions do you have for the future of the commercial real estate market
A: I think more folks are headed back to the office but with a hybrid work style, therefore office spaces with additional value and amenities for workers will find success. As for retail, I think it will continue to grow in momentum at high-demand locations with walkability and high foot traffic to offer a business. There are so many fun food and beverage conversations going on—I’m looking forward to seeing how it grows in the Fargo market.
Q Are there emerging areas or types of properties that you think will be particularly important in the near future
A: Multifamily has often shown economic resilience and as the need for a workforce grows, it will become even more important. From short-term rentals to furnished units for traveling healthcare workers, contracted employees, and new residents to the Fargo market, I envision it remaining an important part of the future for real estate development.
Q What legal or regulatory issues should business owners be aware of
A: Once a lease is signed, it is a legally binding document. Make sure you look into all city codes and regulations before signing. If your vision and plans do not fit what the city code requires, you are still on the hook for the lease.
Q What are the top three things a business owner should look for in a commercial property
A: Location, price, and what is included in the CAM versus what is paid directly/negotiated.
Q How can a business assess whether a property aligns with its operational needs
A: First, talk with an architect and get an idea if a space can be fit up to what your business needs—they also can help with a cost estimate for construction. Determine what your goals are for your space and look at spaces similar to get a feel for what it will actually feel like once you fill it.
Q What negotiation strategies do you recommend for firsttime commercial property buyers
A: Always work with a REALTOR! The entire process, from start to finish, will have many moving parts, and they know this market best. They’ll be your guide and best friend through this big decision in your life.
Q How can business owners ensure they get the best terms in a lease or purchase agreement
A: Always work with a REALTOR and have a real estate attorney review a purchase agreement or lease prior to signing. The REALTOR® can explain terms but cannot give legal advice.
Q What are some common cost pitfalls in commercial real estate transactions and how can they be avoided
A: Make sure you know what you are paying for—if you are signing a lease, be sure to verify that the CAM expense is accurate and up to date.
Q Are there lesserknown expenses that business owners frequently overlook when budgeting for real estate
A: CAM is always tricky—it is the actual operating expenses for the building. So for example, some winters in the Midwest we get hit with a bad winter, and snow removal costs are above what is budgeted that can hit the tenant at the end of the year.
Transforming Spaces
with neo
NEO specializes in all aspects of interior design with an emphasis on commercial projects ranging from retail to multi-family/mixed-use. We sat down with owners Michael Betlock and Hayley Kaspari to learn about some of their recent projects, because we know that quality design is the best inspiration for you to create quality designs of your own.
By Brady Drake, Michael Betlock, and Hayley Kaspari | provided by neo
Josiah Kopp
Hayley Kaspari
Michael Betlock
BEFORE AFTER
A Space Reimagined
Michael Betlock: We did this project for Core Property Group. We were working with Angela Jordahl and she wanted a few different renderings of what the space could look like to help her lease the space, because just bringing people into this kind of empty shell wasn't giving her much luck. We tried to create something a little bit more lively to show what the space could be. This rendering is almost kind of a startup space or a co-working space. We really tried to bring some color into it. Angela was able to show these renderings during an open house she hosted for the space. My favorite features are the bright colors in a space
Core Property Group
that is otherwise kind of dark and maybe more moody. It's an ultra-modern type of space. I also like all of the different seating that is available. There are semi-private spaces, and private rooms, as well as rooms for group collaboration.
Haylee Kaspari: In the rendering, we wanted to create a space where lots of people could gather. So, we provided a lot of touchdown spaces or spaces to collaborate with other people.
A Beautiful Bank
American Federal Bank
Haylee Kaspari: This is a rendering for an in-progress project that hasn't been physically started yet. Right now, the space feels like a really traditional bank of the '90s. We really want to enhance the space through finishes, functional furniture, and different types of lighting so it feels bright and fresh and new. I think this is a great example of how updating just a couple of things can really make a huge impact in a space through some paint and some other types of finishes. I think the wood slabs make a huge impact on the space. Those little things make the difference between a workspace that people want to be in or not. The lighting is really updated as well.
Michael Betlock: Part of the project is also making the existing space in the building a little more usable. Right now, the second floor is kind of an unused space. There are two lounge chairs up there and the bathroom, which is about it. So, what we did was utilize the second-floor space for an additional conference room that also doubles as the break room. Break spaces are important to invest in. I think it's difficult for people to feel like it's worth investing money into, but it's important to create a space that people can use throughout the day. There might be tables that people can bring their laptops to—it shouldn't be a place that's just for one hour of the day. It should support different activities, and it can be a strong part of attracting and retaining talent.
The DOT Office
Haylee Kaspari: This is an office we did out in Bismarck for the North Dakota Department of Transporation (DOT). Before this, the office was pretty much what you would usually envision for a typical government work environment. There was lots of beige, it was pretty standard, and not much had been updated since the 1980s—it was due for a refresh.
In this space, we really wanted to push what it feels like to work in this type of office. You can definitely see that there is some fun color in an otherwise kind of sophisticated dark feeling. We've incorporated traffic orange and some other elements for that DOT type of feel such as a crosswalk replica and the DOT roadway map. This space is specifically interesting because a lot of these kinds of collaborative touchdown spaces were kind of up for debate as to whether or not to have them and we really pushed for some of these spaces to stay in there. And now that they've been using the space, the feedback we have gotten is that these spaces are always being used—they're always busy. People want environments to go to to connect with one another.
Tips for Improving Your Current Office
What's nearly as good as design inspiration? Quality advice!
Incorporate ergonomics
A great way to enhance your existing office is by equipping employees with ergonomic support to better do their job. What's even better is there are ergonomic grants available giving businesses access to heightadjustable desks, adjustable task chairs, monitor arms, and other support tools.
Incorporate color
Some fresh paint or wallcovering is a great way to incorporate color and create interest in an existing office environment. Painting and hanging wallcovering are two inexpensive and impermanent ways to add color, texture, pattern, and some life to your office.
Add plants
Incorporating plants is a great way to bring some nature into your space. Not only is it proven that interacting with nature enhances focus and feelings of well-being, but it's another great way to incorporate some color.
Enlist the help of your team
Engaging your team to see what can be improved could make the biggest impact in an existing office space. Understanding the perspectives of the people who interact with their office environment every day ensures that you implement change that is valued and appreciated by employees.
Add a lounge area
Investing in a lounge setting gives employees some options in the workplace. the opportunity to choose a different work posture, step away from their desk to answer emails or have a brief social exchange really enhances office experiences.
Josiah Kopp
Office Tips From Michael Betlock & Haylee Kaspari
5 Things to Avoid in the Office
Don't get sucked into overly trendy design solutions
Investing your project dollars into overly trendy solutions can cause an office to feel dated more quickly and can be costly to update later.
Don't try to do everything yourself
A new build or remodel is a big job that requires a lot of planning and coordination! While it can be tempting to try to manage everything alone to save money or to have more control, make sure you rely on your designer and construction team to help guide and support the project.
Don't overlook the importance of a variety of workspaces
In both function and aesthetics, giving some thought to workstation and office layouts is key. Avoiding a sea of cubicles will create an environment that employees will value. Adding touchdown areas, lounge spaces, and options for collaboration will enhance the overall look of your office and support workflow.
Don't be afraid to go outside your comfort zone
An office environment is an exciting opportunity to create bold spaces that people enjoy working in. Being open to new ideas and solutions allows you to create a workplace that is reflective of your branding and culture and stands out as a desirable place to work.
Don't be afraid to ask for additional design solutions
When working with a designer, don't be afraid to ask to see more options! The first design solution isn't always a home run and maybe doesn't match your personal vision. The right designer will work with you to make sure the final project is within budget and reflective of your goals.
10 Things to Build Your Dream Office
Hire an interior designer
Hiring an interior designer brings an expert onto your team who will not only help find a design solution custom to you and your brand, but will also help navigate the project process, manage the budget, and advocate for you along the way.
Create spaces that are multifunctional
Giving intentional thought to the built environment allows you to create spaces that work hard for you and your team. Single-function areas can feel like a big monetary investment, whereas a break room that doubles as a meeting space, an alternate work environment, and a social hub feels more worth the investment!
Understand your culture and employees
Including your team in the vision for the new space is a great way to help foster a sense of ownership and engagement. Identifying keywords and attributes that define your brand, the culture, and the people who work there helps to drive the design solution. The end result is a workplace people are proud to be a part of.
Gather inspiration
How do you want your office to feel? Modern?
Comfortable? Techy?
The way your dream office feels is a reflection of your brand and helps to dictate the culture of the workplace. Your designer will provide solutions that support your vision
Prioritize natural light
Capitalize on windows and outside views wherever you have them! Studies show that access to natural light in the workplace enhances productivity and feelings of wellbeing in the office.
Identify your dream office goals
Think about how you want your office to feel and function. Having clear established goals will help your designer provide solutions that reflect and support those goals.
Consider layers of lighting
Lighting is so important and greatly affects the way a space feels. If you've followed tip No. 1, your designer will help you! Whether you're considering general lighting, accent lighting, decorative lighting, or natural lighting, its imperative to consider how people will work and engage with their environment.
Provide spaces for respite and privacy
Providing spaces that allow employees to step away from their desks to take a personal call or decompress supports feelings of well-being and value in the workplace. These types of spaces reduce disruption in open office environments while also considering the needs of individuals.
Don't wait to consider furniture and its costs
In the midst of building a new building, preparing to fit up an existing space, or even doing a remodel, it can be easy to overlook furniture. Office furnishings should be considered not only in regard to the cost but also in terms of the lead time. Delivery and installation of new furnishings need to be coordinated with building completion to make sure your move-in date is on time.
Create environments that provide choice
By providing lounge settings, touchdown areas, and other options it allows employees to have some choice and control in their work day. This creates a sense of ownership in their work environment and prevents burnout. Providing interesting and unique areas is also an effective tool for attracting new talent on your team. For more info visit
Q: Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your current role?
A: For both properties, I continuously strive to develop corporate and association business relationships to keep our hotels thriving. As team lead, I work with a dedicated sales department to ensure all segments are getting the attention they deserve, so that we never miss an opportunity to welcome and service new business.
Q: How did you become involved with YPN?
A: My family and I moved to Fargo in 2018. While having a taste of North Dakota during my years at UND, I was still completely new to Fargo, West Fargo, and Moorhead. I needed a way to get to know the community better. YPN does a great job utilizing other Chamber business locations for their events. Diving in helped me learn about what was available around town and who some of the people were.
Q: What motivated you to choose your current career path?
A: First: freedom! Then: free food!
To elaborate: When I first started
Young Professional Highlight JAE DEWALD
Area Director of Sales Holiday Inn Fargo and Holiday Inn Express - West Acres
By Brady Drake | Josiah Kopp
working in a hotel, I was at a small highway property with 42 rooms, no restaurant, and no meeting space.
I was the sole employee from 4 - 11 p.m. It was a defiant teenager's dream to have that little management over my head. But, boy did I grow up fast with some of the situations I encountered.
When I got to college, I started working on the banquet side of things while doing a sales and marketing internship. This sounds silly, but I stayed through the toughest days because of the leftover banquet food. When I'm able to have access to prime rib while being such a broke college student who was putting myself through school, you don't walk away from that!
Sales in hospitality attracted me for many reasons, yet many would tell you that my 'gift of the gab' lets me thrive in this role, but would be a curse to get me into a lot of trouble in other types of positions. So, seemingly by default, here I am doing a job where I get to talk a lot and use my naturally extroverted nature to meet new people for a living.
Q: Can you share a significant challenge you’ve faced in your career and how you overcame it?
A: Working in the hospitality industry during the pandemic was a really trippy experience. I watched literally millions of hoteliers across the globe lose their jobs within a week. At the Holiday Inn Fargo, we had over 300 staff members on March 1, 2020. On April 1, there were 12, I was one of those 12. We who remained suddenly became every position of every department each day, working longer hours for less fruitful outcomes for months.
We somehow stayed positive through it, adopting a slogan of "be the spork" (the utensil that acts as both a spoon and a fork) which has stuck around to this day—we even make trophies for it. We said "yes" and accommodated every piece of business that we could. Turns out nothing will ever stop love or hockey. I'd work with brides who were still hearing 'closed' from their reception halls in MN when the ND occupancy laws were more lenient and we'd have their entire game plan recreated here with a 20-day notice. I'd listen to what I called Doug Burgum's Wednesday "Fireside Chats" to know exactly what occupancy laws we were working with that week and set up spaces accordingly. I begged and bargained with every trucking company in town to move their business in because I knew their industry was still alive. We pleaded with offices that were no longer going
to have an off-site holiday party to let us cater in their offices. These are just a few examples of the hustle that went into recovery. We did everything we could to work our way out of the shutdown and by 2023, put up recordbreaking revenue numbers that this hotel has never seen in its 50 years of existence.
Q: How do you stay updated and continue to grow professionally in your field?
A: There are industry-specific organizations in the Twin Cities area that I still like to attend. I find the Global Business Travelers Association North Central Chapter (GBTA-NC) and Meeting Professionals International Minnesota (MPI-MN) to be two of the best for my work updates. My goal is to have a significantly stronger GBTA presence in North Dakota in the next few years, and in the last year, I may have finally found a few other enthusiasts to turn that dream into a reality.
Locally, I enjoy attending many of the summits that the Chamber puts on. Many of our largest convention clients deal in the agriculture, banking, or medical fields, so I find that attending these summits gives me a glimpse into the worlds in which I'm working. It helps me better understand what we might expect out of certain attendees each year depending on the socio economic climate of their own industries.
Q: What has been your most rewarding experience with YPN so far?
A: I have been so fortunate to develop the friendships that have formed during my time with YPN. Some of us have bonded to the point where we choose to hang out outside of sanctioned events. There have been people that I never would have met if it weren't for this club—I have now gone to things like comedy shows,
murder mystery events, charity events, concerts, etc. I even have future plans on the books right now. I am genuinely grateful for the sense of community that has been built around me because I decided to jump in with both feet.
Q: How has being a part of YPN impacted your professional network?
A: I am proud to admit that sleeping rooms, meeting spaces, and catering referrals have all sprouted up during my time as a YPN member. There's even been a job referral or two that almost convinced me to move on. Through all the professional and personal connections built up, I know the network will come in handy in the future.
Q: Can you share a memorable connection or opportunity that arose through YPN?
A: YPN has helped me grow professionally beyond just building a network. It has also helped me hone in on certain professional skills that I don't get many opportunities to work on in my day-to-day work. One of those skills is public speaking. I joined the Recruitment Committee in 2021 because I knew it would put me in front of business office crowds of various sizes as our team presented our "Why Join YPN" spiel.
At one point, I had the opportunity to present in front of over 130 people at an association conference, encouraging them to go back to their respective places of business and spread the word about YPN. I'm pretty sure my entire esophagus zig zagged, and I had to step away from the mic for a second to compose myself. I battled through but went and cried in the car as soon as I was done because it literally scared the sense out of me.
Since then, I feel my fear of public speaking has faded and now because
of these moments of '"practice," I will attempt to present in this year's Disrupt HR event in front of what is supposed to be 300+ sets of eyes and ears. I would have never even bothered to apply if I hadn't had these last three years of recruitment presentations under my belt.
Q: Where do you see yourself professionally in the next five years?
A: I would like to see myself in a more regionally focused business development position, including overseeing an expanded team of other professionals. Maybe by then someone will have gifted me a "Boss Lady" cup, which I've always wanted but refuse to purchase for myself, that's crass.
Q: Any final thoughts or messages you’d like to share with the community?
A: I'm going to put on some different "hats" of mine and speak about my two latest passion projects.
First, I'm serving my third year as a board Member for the not-yet-built Fargo Moorhead Science Museum. This community needs to grow, and there is more that people can do to help this dream come to life than they think. I encourage anyone reading this to go to fmsm.org to learn more about this "regionally focused, globally relevant" structure that some great minds are trying to fundraise to get opened in the next few years.
Second, the more immediate needs of this community directed my attention to the Board of the Furniture Mission of the Red River Valley this past year. If you have household furniture that you are going to part with that may be in good enough shape to be re-homed, please reach out to furnituremissionrrv.org to schedule a pick-up or to find where to drop off.
A LOOK INTO GOLDMAN SACHS 10,000SMALL BUSINESSES PROGRAM IN NORTH DAKOTA
HOW GOLDMAN SACHS IS EMPOWERING SMALL BUSINESSES
BY GRANT AYERS
oldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses (10KSB) program was founded 14 years ago. Over those 14 years, the program has served more than 15,000 small business owners nationwide, surpassing what was initially imagined for the initiative's efforts. With a mission to "promote economic development and job creation, both regionally and nationally," the program equips small business owners with the critical tools required for success.
I had the pleasure of connecting with Dr. Karmen P. Sorenson, Executive Director of the Goldman Sachs 10KSB program for North Dakota. In our conversation, we discussed what requirements small business owners in North Dakota should be aware of, the long-lasting benefits of the program, and how you can apply to jumpstart your small business growth. I also had the privilege of connecting with several North Dakotan small business owners who went through the program's first cohort, to discuss how the program benefited their businesses, what valuable information they took away from it, unexpected benefits they were unaware of when entering, and more.
Check out North Dakota's first 10KSB graduating cohort! Courtesy of Karmen Sorenson, Goldman Sachs
Goldman Sachs 10KSB program is a 12-week initiative designed to help address issues and struggles for small business owners when growing, including finding and retaining talent and accessing capital. "Small businesses are engines of economic growth in North Dakota and nationwide," Sorenson said.
Designed to tackle the core challenges small businesses face, the program takes a "three-pronged approach," according to Sorenson, to provide business owners with the tools needed to create jobs and power the local economy. The approach is structured around three pillars: comprehensive business education, capital access, and an extensive entrepreneurial network.
HOW IT WORKS
Over the 12-week training course covering a wide array of topics from finance to marketing, the program aims to equip entrepreneurs with a sharp skill set that they can use in real-world settings. The program brings in different panelists to discuss and share both opportunities and resources in our community and region.
In North Dakota's program, participants meet in person at the beginning and end of the cohort, allowing small business owners to facilitate connections and network on the front and back ends of the course.
"We're starting to see some of the momentum and impact on our end, and real small business owners have already seen the program's impact since graduating," Sorenson said. "We expect to see a lot more success here in North Dakota in the coming months."
DR. KARMEN SORENSON,
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF GOLDMAN SACHS 10,000 SMALL BUSINESSES PROGRAM ND
It's a unique opportunity to have something like this at Bismarck State College, and partnering with Goldman Sachs to offer it in our own backyard is amazing. We do this to help small businesses in our state, and it is a wonderful opportunity for small business owners to take advantage of at no cost. The focus is to help them grow their businesses, which then positively impacts their communities, so it's a win-win all around."
- Karmen Sorenson, Executive Director
DID YOU KNOW?
Goldman Sachs pays for participants' hotels, transportation, and meals so they can focus, growing their businesses and taking home a new set of skills.
Courtesy of Karmen Sorenson, Goldman Sachs 10KSB
A LOOK INTO GOLDMAN SACHS 10,000SMALL BUSINESSES PROGRAM IN NORTH DAKOTA
Activities, such as cup stacking, at the 10KSB program provide fun team-building opportunities.
Courtesy of Karmen Sorenson, Goldman Sachs 10KSB
"Throughout the program, we facilitate panels with alumni and business leaders in our communities to connect with our small business owners," Sorenson said. "We also have a strong network of like-minded individuals trying to do this together."
Upon their graduation, they are welcomed into a significantly larger, interconnected alumni network. "If you're operating a unique business in rural North Dakota, feeling as though there's no other quite like yours within the state, entering this network can change that," Sorenson said. "With more than 15,000 graduates from our program to date, it's possible to encounter businesses with similar models in the most unexpected of places across the country."
A recent instance showcased the network's power, where a group of small business graduates collaborated with a local commercial realtor—also an alum—to locate suitable business premises. This showcases Goldman Sachs' cross-regional collaboration through its alumni network.
WHAT TO KNOW WHEN APPLYING
THE GOLDMAN SACHS 10KSB PROGRAM FOCUSES ON BUSINESS GROWTH .
"We specialize in the growth phase of a business, so it is a very attractive program for small business owners who are focused on taking their business to the next level. This program is for anyone with a growth mindset; it truly transcends the type and size of any applicant's industry. Part of the program's magic is bringing different companies across different industries together to bounce ideas off each other and peer-learn from one another."
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS.
"The minimum requirements include being the owner of the business and in business 2+ years, having business revenues over $75,000, and at least one additional employee in the business. There are no upper limits on employees or revenue, and we are agnostic to business industries."
THE INITIAL APPLICATION PROCESS TAKES LESS THAN 15 MINUTES.
"The initial application simply asks a handful of basic questions to determine if you meet the program's guidelines (2 years in business, $75,000 in revenue, and 2+ employees). From there, we go into the second and third rounds of applications, so it's a very easy process to get started."
Courtesy of Karmen Sorenson, Goldman Sachs 10KSB
We're not studying the theory of marketing; we're actually learning marketing, which I believe underpins why we're offering this program. Through learning modules, participants are actively working on their own businesses, which is very beneficial to them."
- Karmen Sorenson, Executive Director
DID YOU KNOW?
Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program cohorts typically consist of 25 to 35 small business owners, while never exceeding 40.
Pictured: Karmen Sorenson and Bryan Klipfel, a community and state leader who has led both the ND and SD GS 10KSB cohorts over the past year.
A LOOK INTO GOLDMAN SACHS 10,000SMALL BUSINESSES PROGRAM IN NORTH DAKOTA
THE 10KSB PROGRAM'S ACCESS TO CAPITAL
Access to capital remains a significant hurdle for many small-business owners. Through strategic partnerships with community development financial institutions (CDFIs) across the country, including Dakota Business Lending in North Dakota, the program strives to bridge this gap. The initiative offers a range of support to small business owners, including assets, insights, and tools.
For example, they will organize panels with community experts to address critical topics, such as securing funding.
One particularly helpful panel focuses on financing options, featuring speakers from CDFIs, angel investors, and commercial lenders, where they share their knowledge, experiences, and personal advice regarding acquiring capital.
"There are so many practical topics that we're able to teach and share with business owners through the program," Sorenson said. "For example, we fly in a negotiation expert to facilitate a negotiation workshop with small business owners when they're with us. Our goal is to provide small business owners with resources that not only aid in their current operations but also encourage them to think more expansively about their growth potential."
"In North Dakota, we recently introduced small business owners to Dave Kleppe (pictured left), manager of the ND APEX Accelerator Program, which assists North Dakota businesses with local, state, and federal government contracting. Kleppe connected participants with officials from the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), Small Business Development Centers (ND SBDC), Women's Business Centers (NDWBC), and others. This initiative aimed to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs and the resources in their communities that they might not have known about. We want to introduce them to as many resources as we can in our communities to help them grow their businesses, which in turn impacts their communities and the entire state of North Dakota."
- Karmen Sorenson, Executive Director
Courtesy of Dave Kleppe
Courtesy of Karmen Sorenson, Goldman Sachs
A LOOK INTO GOLDMAN SACHS 10,000SMALL BUSINESSES PROGRAM IN NORTH DAKOTA
NETWORKING & ALUMNI OPPORTUNITIES
Bringing together like-minded, growth-oriented entrepreneurs, Goldman Sachs provides alumni coordinators in each of its markets, as well as at the national level. Furthermore, it hosts region-wide, statewide, and nationwide alumni gathering events. "We're proud to have created such a vast network of entrepreneurs who can connect, bounce ideas off each other, and work together," Sorenson said.
A SYNERGISTIC PARTNERSHIP WITH BISMARCK STATE COLLEGE
The collaboration with Bismarck State College showcases their shared vision of practical, hands-on learning learning for local leaders. As North Dakota's first and only polytechnic institution, the college provides the perfect backdrop for the program's mission. Small business owners can learn handson, actionable, and practical information that can be brought back to their business within 12 weeks.
" 10KSB is an educational 12-week program created and designed for busy small business owners, so it's much more accessible than an MBA for many busy small business owners," Sorenson said. "[The program] fits in nicely with Bismarck State College's polytechnic mission. While it's a noncredit program, it allows our small business community and workforce to take advantage of hands-on learning experiences."
WHAT IS A POLYTECHNIC COLLEGE?
DID YOU KNOW?
The 10KSB Connect Online platform was developed internally by Goldman Sachs exclusively for their program's graduates. This platform allows users to look at a particular sector, search by state or industry, and more, offering a more formalized and structured way for alumni to connect and engage.
Courtesy of Karmen Sorenson, Goldman Sachs 10KSB
A polytechnic school, such as Bismarck State College, combines the in-depth study found at universities with practical, handson skills training experiences for students.
Courtesy of Karmen Sorenson, Goldman Sachs 10KSB
LOOKING AHEAD
With the recent launch of the Investment in Rural Communities initiative, Goldman Sachs has reaffirmed its commitment to empowering rural small businesses nationwide. This $100 million initiative, focusing on 20 rural states over five years, including North Dakota, signifies a major expansion of the program's reach and impact in the coming years.
"This investment by Goldman Sachs in rural communities is huge, and we're grateful for that," Sorenson said. "It's
not every day that North Dakota gets to be involved in something like this, so we're really excited about this expansion. We've rolled out to North Dakota, we're in South Dakota right now, and we're launching a new cohort in Minnesota beginning this fall."
"While the 10,000 Small Businesses program just graduated the first cohort in South Dakota, they are preparing to launch in Minnesota and Nebraska."
"We offer two cohorts each year and rotate through a four-state area. We plan to be back in North Dakota with a new cohort in 2025."
or small business owners in North Dakota and beyond, the 10,000 Small Businesses program represents a unique opportunity to achieve new heights. By combining education, access to capital, and networking, the program addresses immediate challenges faced by entrepreneurs and lays the groundwork for positive community building. As many businesses across North Dakota continue to thrive postparticipation, the program's mission for growth promises a brighter future for small businesses across the state and the nation.
10KSB SUCCESS STORIES INSIGHT FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS
Courtesy of Angela Nicole Creative
: CAN YOU TELL ME HOW YOU INITIALLY CAME ACROSS THIS PROGRAM AND WERE INTRODUCED TO 10KSB?
: I have a relative and friend who works for Bismarck State College. She reached out and thought it would be a great opportunity for me to apply and get some additional resources and education to grow my business.
: WHAT'S THE TIMELINE FOR WHEN YOU APPLIED FOR THE PROGRAM AND WENT THROUGH IT?
: I submitted my application in early July 2023. From there, they conducted interviews and requested additional information about our business, followed by another interview in August. We started the program in September, which ran through December.
KEELY GRAVES
OWNER OF KEELY'S CLEANING CREW
: WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME HIGHS AND LOWS, OR BENEFITS AND HURDLES, FOR YOUR BUSINESS AS YOU CONTINUE TO GROW KEELY'S CLEANING CREW?
: It just depends on where you are in your business to know if it's a high or a low. I've definitely gone through times when finding employees was easy and times where it was more challenging. Finding employees can be both good and bad, a high and a low, depending on the market. Additionally, finding customers has been a journey. There came a point in my business when I had to start investing in marketing, which was something I never had to do before.
Early on, I ran the business by adding employees and clients as they came to me, without pushing for growth. But eventually, I reached a stage where I wanted to grow. However, seeing the potential in BismarckMandan and recognizing the opportunities, I decided to take a leap, push for growth, and see where I could take the business. Now, I've grown to have 14 hard-working employees.
: WHAT WERE SOME OF YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS WHEN EXITING THE PROGRAM THAT PERSONALLY STUCK OUT TO YOU, AND THAT YOU WERE ABLE TO BRING BACK TO KEELY'S CLEANING CREW?
: One of the biggest benefits of going through the program is gaining knowledge in many areas of the business that you may not have had before. As I’ve said many times, owning a small business means wearing many hats, and you may not be an expert in all of them. Nobody starts a business knowing how to handle all aspects of marketing, HR, and payroll; you learn as you go.
Going through the program provided the opportunity to grow in areas where I wasn’t an expert. One of the most beneficial parts of the program was gaining contacts and resources and knowing where to turn if you have questions. That was huge for me and has been very helpful since completing the program. I’ve reached out to many people and discovered more avenues for asking the necessary questions.
: FOR OTHERS CONSIDERING APPLYING, IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WISH YOU KNEW BEFOREHAND, ANYTHING HELPFUL TO KNOW GOING IN, OR ANY UNEXPECTED BENEFITS YOU DIDN'T KNOW ABOUT?
: I would say definitely go in with an open mind. You'll gain much more if you're willing to put in the time needed to acquire as much knowledge as you can, ask questions, and attend all the sessions and extra classes available. Having the time to dedicate to this will be crucial. So, know that when you apply, it is a time commitment, but you'll get out of it what you put into it.
:
DO YOU HAVE ANY
FINAL THOUGHTS REGARDING
THE 10KSB THAT YOU'D CARE TO SHARE WITH READERS?
: I am very grateful for the program and the resources they have offered me. As a small business owner in North Dakota, where small-business make up 99.8% of all businesses in the state, going through this program has been invaluable. The program covers all expenses, providing us with significant access to resources and capital. They don't take any direct involvement in our businesses, but the resources and opportunities they provide are a definite plus.
10KSB SUCCESS STORIES INSIGHT FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS
: WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS FROM THE 10KSB PROGRAM THAT YOU BROUGHT BACK TO FM ARIAL AND MOVEMENT ARTS? WHAT DID YOU LEARN IN THE PROGRAM THAT HAS RESONATED WITH YOU SINCE COMPLETING IT?
: A couple of the biggest takeaways are the community and the resources. The new curriculum used throughout the 10KSB focuses heavily on action and provides further opportunities to audit different modules. Each module touches on various aspects of business, whether it's working on your next hire, operations management, or the financial side. This information was new to me, but the program helped me understand these areas better.
The community aspect was equally important. Networking and building strong relationships with other businesses in the area, along with the mentors provided, was invaluable.
YVETTE REYES
OWNER OF FM AERIAL & MOVEMENT ARTS
: FOR OTHERS CONSIDERING APPLYING, IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WISH YOU HAD KNOWN BEFOREHAND OR AN UNEXPECTED, LESSER-KNOWN BENEFIT THAT YOU WERE UNAWARE OF WHEN APPLYING?
: Yes, one thing that pleasantly surprised me was the alumni network. Upon completion, the program includes templates and resources to remain updated, the ability to stay connected with other scholars, as well as a broader network of small business owners to collaborate with.
There are various events, such as one that I recently returned from in Minneapolis, that are incredibly beneficial for business networking. I feel like I already made plenty of new connections to help the business grow. The program team is very focused on ensuring we can immediately apply the business skills we learn and build interpersonal connections. The continuous support and networking opportunities available after the program were unexpected but greatly appreciated.
:
REGARDING NOT ONLY THE 10KSB PROGRAM BUT ALSO YOUR TIME WITH FM AERIAL AND MOVEMENT ARTS, HAVE THERE BEEN ANY SPECIFIC INSTANCES WHERE YOU FACED A SIGNIFICANT HURDLE OR CHALLENGE, AND THE KNOWLEDGE FROM 10KSB HELPED YOU OVERCOME IT?
: For me, it's specifically about employment. When I first started the business, I had six employees, not including myself. Now, after going through the program and learning about how to actively delegate and create systems, it's not just me working on my business but also them working towards our common goal. I've been able to hire more staff, and we have almost doubled our team. After completing the program, I hired an additional six to seven people. I now have a lot more confidence in hiring and feel much more confident about the business moving forward.
In the past, I often didn't know how to handle various aspects of the business, such as planning for the next month or future business activities. The program has helped me focus and realize the key metrics that are valuable to grow [FM Aerial and Movement Arts]. It has also guided me on how to take steps towards achieving my future goals.
DID YOU KNOW?
Goldman Sachs monitors participants' progress for up to three years after they complete the program. This helps them understand the program's lasting impact on small business owners. They have found that:
72% of rural business owner participants have added jobs since completing the program.
74% of rural business owner participants have increased their revenue.
85% of rural business owner participants believe their business is more resilient as a result of completing the program.
69% of alumni do business with one another or collaborate at some level with one another postgraduation.
10KSB SUCCESS STORIES INSIGHT FROM PAST PARTICIPANTS
Courtesy of Brett Wegleitner
:
HOW DID YOU INITIALLY COME ACROSS THIS PROGRAM AND GET INTRODUCED TO 10KSB?
: I was introduced to the program by a local banker I’ve been working with on a business buyout. She sent me an email about applying for the 10,000 Small Businesses program through Goldman Sachs and mentioned it might be something I’d be interested in as I aim to grow my business.
I started looking into it and was particularly intrigued by their financial module, which showcased opportunities to expand my business. As the process continued, it led to an interview with a local entrepreneur from Bismarck-Mandan and two other panel members from the Goldman Sachs team. They emphasized the selection process for the program, aiming to find the right fit for participants.
I was genuinely interested in the opportunity to grow my business through their financial model. However, I quickly realized it was a comprehensive 12-week program covering critical aspects of running, maintaining, and sustaining a business. Additionally, it provided access to a network of local and national entrepreneurs, which has been a significant asset over the past few months.
BRETT WEGLEITNER
OWNER OF WEST RIVER CHIROPRACTIC CO.
: WHAT WERE SOME OF THE BIGGEST TAKEAWAYS FROM THAT PROGRAM THAT STOOD OUT TO YOU DURING THOSE 12 WEEKS?
: The biggest thing I got out of the program was the ability to create a financial forecast. Throughout this 12-week module, the goal was to develop a growth plan. I like to explain this as essentially a beefed-up business plan. All business owners need to have a business plan in place, especially if they're seeking capital or a loan, to prove their strategy. This program helps build a more detailed version of that plan.
Most entrepreneurs work in their business but not necessarily on their business. They know what they want to achieve and how they want to grow but may not be clear on the steps to get there. This program, with its growth plan component, guided us through that process.
My biggest takeaway was identifying my growth plan opportunity: adding another associate chiropractor and a physical therapist to our clinic. The program laid out the foundation for step-by-step progress—how to begin, reach the middle portion, and eventually add to the clinic while remaining financially stable.
: YOU MENTIONED ADDING SOME EMPLOYEES SINCE THEN. WHAT ARE SOME OTHER IMPROVEMENTS OR GROWTH ASPECTS WITHIN WEST RIVER CHIROPRACTIC CO. SINCE YOU WENT THROUGH THIS PROGRAM?
: We have added another associate chiropractor, a physical therapist, and, at the beginning of January, a massage therapist. This not only creates jobs in the community but also enhances our outreach and positively impacts our patients and local community health.
We have also implemented several other changes in our clinic, including different marketing strategies, growing our social media presence, and tweaking our website based on what we learned from the program. One major takeaway was financial forecasting. It’s a more sophisticated way of budgeting, allowing us to dive into the numbers and assess the feasibility and potential return on investment for business decisions. For me, the biggest benefit of the program was
10KSB SUCCESS STORIES INSIGHT FROM
PAST PARTICIPANTS
understanding the financial side of the business and learning what constitutes a good return on investment, something I didn’t learn in chiropractic school. We were trained to treat patients and help them heal, but we were never taught how to actually run and operate a small business. This program provided comfort and confidence in managing the business side of things, especially if you have a good idea but are not entirely sure how to execute it.
: WHAT HAVE BEEN SOME HIGHS AND LOWS YOU’VE EXPERIENCED WITH THE COMPANY?
: Our biggest success has been the overwhelming support from our local community. As you know, being from Bismarck-Mandan, we are a small community. Every patient you have or person you work with in business is going to be some type of neighbor to some degree—you know just about everyone in town. So, it’s great having the community support us, which has been huge.
One of the biggest setbacks we faced was during COVID-19. We were fortunate in North Dakota that we did not have to shut down our clinic like in many other states. We actually grew our business by about 30% that first year of COVID-19 because most people were trying to stay away from larger clinics and hospitals and were coming to more holistic or smaller clinics. Initially, it was very difficult and stressful not knowing what would happen, but it ended up being a blessing in disguise.
After the program, the biggest change was gaining new insights into the business. I had wanted to add more employees and become a multidisciplinary clinic for the past few years. This experience gave me the motivation to push forward. I initially thought it would take about a year to implement my growth plan, but I accomplished it within the first four months.
: IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WISH YOU HAD KNOWN BEFOREHAND, WHETHER IT BE DURING THE APPLICATION PROCESS OR ANY UNEXPECTED BENEFITS THAT RESULTED FROM THE PROGRAM?
: I don't want anyone to be deterred by thinking they
don't have the time. I've been going through a business buyout, I have a young family, and I run a business, yet I was still able to complete the program. This has been one of the best things I've ever done for my business. It has helped me grow, and I will continue to use the growth plan and tools provided by Goldman Sachs to keep expanding, hopefully adding more clinics to my resume and business throughout the area.
The network of people you meet is invaluable. Not only do you connect with individuals within the program, but Goldman Sachs also brings in various experts during the program. These include people lending capital, networking groups, and others who can promote or support your business.
85% of 10KSB alums end up working with one another after the program or turn to the alumni community for additional skills. This has been a huge asset for me. I've collaborated with others from my cohort in retail spaces, expanding our business lenders for capital or credit lines. Additionally, I've worked with another CPA from the cohort, exchanging questions and advice. It's been incredibly beneficial to have this network to reach.
: DO YOU HAVE ANY FINAL THOUGHTS REGARDING 10KSB THAT YOU'D CARE TO SHARE WITH READERS?
: Yes, don't squander the opportunities that come your way. These opportunities are very rare for a place like North Dakota. Being a smaller community, it’s uncommon to have a big Fortune 500 company like Goldman Sachs coming in, especially free of charge for what they are offering. Please take the opportunity to apply; you will be so glad that you did in the end. Taking the chance and opportunity to grow your business. Even if you think you know everything about business is so valuable, I can guarantee that Goldman Sachs' 10KSB program is going to teach you quite a few things that you may not have thought about, or will challenge you to think about in a different mindset.
: IS THERE CURRENTLY AN APPLICATION DEADLINE FOR NORTH DAKOTANS?
: We are not actively recruiting North Dakota small business owners until next year, so stay tuned for updates. Interested small business owners can always submit an application early at www.10ksbapply.com
: BASED ON YOUR EXPERIENCES WITH THE PROGRAM AND ITS SUCCESS STORIES, WHAT IS SOME ADVICE FOR ASPIRING ENTREPRENEURS IN NORTH DAKOTA, REGARDING THIS PROGRAM?
: I encourage any small business owner interested in taking their business to the next level to apply for the program, especially if you're at a comfortable enough point where you want to grow. The program is highly beneficial to small businesses across any industry, and you'll walk away with an actionable, practical growth plan for your business.
AWESOME FOUNDATION GRANT AWARD WINNER
Canopy Medical Clinic
onnection is at the heart of every community—and the foundation of the Canopy Peer Navigation program run by the Canopy Medical Clinic located in Fargo.
“Some participants have some pretty long-term friendships from being in this group together for so long. They call each other. They text each other. They ask each other for rides. They'll pick each other up from the airport. It's a really well-established community,” said Athena Sfeir, Canopy's program manager.
The Canopy Peer Navigation program is the first dedicated peer support initiative for people living with HIV in North Dakota. Canopy Medical Clinic launched the Peer Navigation Program in 2022. While the program is new, one of its groups has existed through different organizations for 17 years. Canopy Medical Clinic is currently running the program in partnership with the North Dakota Department of Health.
The goal of the program is to provide access to mental health services and personalized support to those living with HIV, both individually and through the facilitation of group support meetings with the help of Peer Navigators who live with HIV themselves. Support programs are known to increase medication adherence and decrease isolation and symptoms of anxiety and depression for various illnesses. When
the illness in question is one plagued with stigma and misinformation, that support is especially important to the over 500 people diagnosed with HIV in North Dakota.
“A lot of the public understanding about HIV is sort of stuck in the 90s. People are unaware of the medical advances in the treatment of HIV. People don’t realize that it’s similar to other chronic illnesses—it’s considered a long-term, manageable disease,” Athena said.
“Sometimes even medical professionals, still think of HIV as a death sentence. They have these large reactions that are not based on medical science, but on hysteria. However, people living with HIV can not only live normal lives, they can drop their viral load to a level where it's untransmissible,” Director of Mental Health Services at Canopy Medical Clinic Kara Gloe said. “They can have normal romantic and sexual lives, too—which I think is an important thing to note, because people living with HIV can struggle with dating.”
“It comes back to the stigma associated with the illness. Not just the disease itself, but the populations it has been associated with over time. Because of those stereotypes, people that are not living with HIV can't always relate in the same way to a person who is. Members of our program are matched with a Peer Navigator who is either living with HIV themselves or has some sort of lived experience with it through taking care of a family member or friend. They can provide support to help people navigate challenging systems, suggest how
BY BRANDI MALARKEY, OWNER, IT'S ALL MALARKEY
to advocate for themselves at doctor appointments, or emotionally support people who are unsure when to disclose their illness to family or a romantic partner,” Athena said. “Then we have our in-person support group and two online support groups. Sometimes we have speakers or share articles, but we always check in with people—hear about everyone’s triumphs and challenges, and people share tips and tricks with each other.”
“We often get feedback from people in our support group that this is the only place where they can come and openly talk about being a person living with HIV," Kara said. "They may not even be out to their family yet, but they can come here, have this community, and connection to others with similar experiences and it helps them to not feel so alone.”
All three group support meetings occur once a month, with the in-person Positive Hearts group gathering at a rotating selection of local restaurants that provide private dining rooms to preserve confidentiality. While mental health medication management, individual therapy, and salaries for Peer Navigators are funded directly by the North Dakota Ryan White program, community-building “extras” are paid for by additional funding sources. One of these sources is the Cass Clay chapter of the Awesome Foundation, which named the Canopy Peer Navigation Program it’s May 2024 grantee. Their $1,000 grant will help support the rental of meeting spaces, cover lunch expenses, and help provide honorariums for guest speakers.
While most of the referrals come directly from case managers when people enroll in the Ryan White program, people can register themselves by either calling Canopy Medical Clinic directly or filling out the Peer Navigation Support Services registration on Canopy’s website.
“It’s a wonderful program,” Athena said. “We want to help, and we have some truly amazing people doing the peer navigation. Everyone deserves to be treated fairly and well, with dignity and respect.”
Positive Heart in-person group support meetings take place on the second Tuesday of the month, starting at 11:30 a.m. Online group support meetings are held on the second Saturday of the month at 11 a.m. and the fourth Wednesday of the month at 7 p.m.
The stated goal of Canopy Medical Clinic is to provide inclusive, affirming, sex-positive healthcare to the Fargo-Moorhead area, with a focus on LGBTQIA2S+ and disabled communities. As such, they also offer:
• Transgender Hormone Care
• Gynecology & Sexual Health
• Ryan White Program
• Birth Control
• Therapy
• PrEP
• STIs/STDs
Community members can go to www.canopymedicalclinic.com to learn more about services, register as a patient, or join their mailing list. The clinic is located at 1411 32nd St. S. Ste 1, Fargo, ND, 58103
The Cass-Clay chapter of the Awesome Foundation awards a $1,000 gift each month for awesome ideas of all sorts. Grant recipients do not need to be associated with a nonprofit. Applications can be made at awesomefoundation.org/en/ chapters/cassclay.
Photo submitted by Brandi Malarkey
WOMEN YOU SHOULD KNOW
Kayla Nayes
Beauty is only skin deep, as the saying goes. And when it comes to the beauty industry, what you’ll find below the surface is anything but pleasing. Cosmetologists are pitted against each other—competing for clients, tips, and booth space. While some find the ability to set their own schedule appealing, the unpredictable nature of the work can make it hard for stylists and beauticians to secure housing and other necessary services without a cosigner or guarantor. Most don’t have access to basic benefits like PTO or health insurance. And, like other tipbased industries, making a living wage relies on the generosity of customers— something a third of Americans have been cutting back on post-pandemic according to a new survey by Bankrate.
Kayla Nayes wanted something different when she opened Enlightened Beauty Salon and Spa in Fargo.
Doing It Different
“Starting in beauty school you’re taught ‘my chair, my client,’” Nayes said. “You’re focused only on your customers. I wanted something that really felt like a team effort.”
With a team-based, no-tipping structure, Nayes is able to offer her employees the security—and benefits— of a more traditional job.
“I was frustrated by the way things were done,” she said. “I worked in commission tipping out of school and as an independent contractor. I didn’t love either system—to the point where I considered leaving the industry. Then I went to a conference in Connecticut that was doing something different.”
Attending a Strategies incubator program, Nayes found the resources and support she needed to reimagine her salon space to better support her employees and her customers. She instituted an hourly structure with fourday workweeks. She offered benefits like PTO, sick time, and health and dental insurance.
The transparent pricing structure and no-tipping policy made it easy
By Arielle Windham | Photo by Beauty Marks Boudoir
for clients to budget salon services. Additionally, employees worked as a team, so it didn’t matter which chair they were sitting in, clients were guaranteed an exceptional experience.
“We’re a team through and through,” Nayes said. “Maybe I’m doing a color and the client needs a haircut. I don’t have time, but another team member does. We just swap chairs. There’s no bad blood. There’s no worrying about where the tip goes. It’s so much better for us and for the client.”
Cultivating a Safe Space
The business model is working. Nayes leads an excited and talented team, and Enlightened Beauty’s clients love the results. Word has spread that Enlightened Beauty is not only a great salon, but somewhere anyone could go for top-notch service without judgement.
As a member of the LGBTQIA2S+ community herself, Nayes leans into the salon’s growing popularity with this demographic, working with her team on inclusive policies that would make everyone that walked through the door feel safe and supported.
“I come from a very small town,” Nayes said. “Growing up, we knew we were different, we just didn’t know why or how. I moved to Fargo and found my core group of people. I discovered who I was. Coming out as bisexual later in life, there were a lot of things I had to figure out. So, I understand those feelings of being different and not knowing how to or why. And I don’t want someone to feel alone or that they don’t belong.”
Authentic Beauty
Nayes is proud that her business has been recognized both locally and nationally as a safe space for members of the LGBTQIA2S+ community. But just as there were challenges shifting to a different business model, there have been bumps in the road for her and her team.
“Back in November, we hosted our first teen trans and queer beauty night,”
Nayes said. The salon faced backlash from a national group. Nayes worried about the safety of her staff and their guests, but in the end, they decided to hold the event as planned. They were supported by other allies in the community, including the Red River Community Action Training Safety (CATS), who helped ensure the safety of everyone.
“The coolest thing was finding a community that supports me,” Nayes said. “At first, it felt really lonely. I didn’t know those resources were even out there. But people come out of the woodwork when you are who you are, and you’re proud to be who you are.”
The Future Will Be Different
It’s been several years since Nayes shook up the Fargo-Moorhead salon industry, and Enlightened Beauty continues to grow. Nayes and the team have laid the groundwork for a training manual and franchise system that would help bring stability, security, and safety to other cosmetologists in the area.
There are still some growing pains to work out. Nayes admits that the no-tipping policy has been a major adjustment for customers. To that end, she’s partnered with Project RAI, and tips are donated to this great organization that supports queer youth.
Keep up with the bright future of Enlightened Beauty as Nayes and the team redefine beauty and salon standards in the Red River Valley. Learn more about services and special LGBTQIA2S+ programs through their website and Facebook. You can also catch up with the team during the annual Pride in the Park celebration.
10 Questions Questions
10
ohn Machacek, Chief Innovation Officer for the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation, has worked with countless startups throughout our community over the years. He knows their ups, and their downs, but most of all, he knows the questions to ask them. Here are John Machacek’s 10 questions for Carter Steffes, Managing Partner, New Era Ventures.
By John Machacek
Nodland
Photo by Geneva
01
Will you please tell me your New Era Ventures elevator pitch?
New Era Ventures is an early-stage venture capital firm that invests in America’s next generation of startup entrepreneurs. We believe that Gen Z holds the keys to America’s future, and our mission is to identify and support the next generation of founders who are willing to bring a brighter future into existence through innovative technologies. Currently, we operate a venture syndicate made up of over 100 individual members who invest alongside us.
02
These interviews I do are typically with startup entrepreneurs, and normally I wouldn’t consider a venture firm as a “startup.” However, knowing that you created New Era Ventures from scratch and are testing out innovative ways to run it, I thought you’d make a great interview subject about your journey of starting. How would you compare New Era Ventures to a socalled startup?
I think the first thing that comes to mind when comparing New Era Ventures to startups is that we kind of started it by accident. My partner Murtaza and I were
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scouting for a few funds and family offices on our nights and weekends. Eventually, we grew frustrated that we didn’t have decision-making power or sufficient skin in the game. Starting our own syndicate was the best way to solve both of those problems and to start building a track record of our own. After making a few more investments and some personal introspection, we aligned on a mission to build a new venture firm fit for the next generation of founders.
Another way we might be compared to most early-stage startups is that we’re relatively unproven, so we’re having to make the most of what we have. Most venture capitalists have some sort of pedigree to lean back on whether it’s from a startup exit of their own, a stint at an elite Silicon Valley firm, or years of operating experience at leading tech companies. We have some unique advantages and experiences to hold on to, but with atypical backgrounds, we must get creative with how we build out our own unique advantages and communicate them.
From an operational standpoint, we’ve thrown many things at the wall to see what works and what doesn’t. We’ve had to hustle our way into deals through timely and/or useful introductions for founding teams. We’ve tested different storytelling strategies and pitched dozens of ideas to investors to see what resonates. We’ve built out internal software to support founders and tested different ideas and features to figure out what’s most useful.
To sum it all up, building New Era Ventures has been an iterative process, and it will surely continue to be well into the future. The day we aren’t testing new ideas and processes is the day that we dig our own grave—just like a startup.
03
When we first met, we had breakfast on the morning you were heading out east to Maryland for grad school for finance. I looked it up; it was August 2021. From then to now, what led you to create the fund and then move back to Fargo?
I look back at August 2021 quite fondly because my life before moving out east was very different, and I was a much different person. I had no idea about the people I would meet or the things I would experience, but I was eager to find out.
My time in Maryland, and eventually New York City, included several adventures between attending grad school, venture scouting, working for a student-founded startup, dropping out of grad school, working for a venture firm full-time, and eventually founding New Era Ventures.
The common denominator in all of my experiences was that my passion and energy were drawn into the startup economy. Since getting my first taste of startups as a student investment scout, I’ve been obsessed with the excitement, volatility, purpose, and extraordinary people within the startup tech community.
When we started New Era, I was living in New York but always kept a close pulse on what was happening back home in North Dakota. In considering where we wanted to build our firm, we felt that North Dakota possessed some unfair advantages and long-term tailwinds for its startup economy at large. The abundance of resources in this region, coupled with the willpower and helpfulness of its residents will
make the state an attractive place to do business for New Era Ventures and many others well into the future.
04
So that is a bit of the origin story motivation, but can you tell me more about forming New Era Ventures with your business partner?
My partner, Murtaza Bandukwala, and I met online in a Slack group called “Gen Z VCs” while we were both student investment scouts. We shared deals back and forth for about a year and a half before we finally met in person at one of Charlie O’Donnell’s fireside chats in New York City. Upon meeting and chatting about a few startups that excited us about, we found mutual conviction in one called Mentra. We were eventually able to secure some allocation in their seed round and we partnered with a few angel investors to invest via a special purpose vehicle.
We learned a lot through the challenges of closing that first deal and we rolled those lessons into a couple more deals. The first few months of working with each other allowed us to build conviction in each other as partners. I think that we both admired each other’s intensity and dedication to the work. The decision to pursue something bigger was obvious at that point.
05
A special-purpose vehicle (SPV) is a legal entity allowing multiple investors
to pool their capital and invest in a single company.
A few of the benefits of SPVs in startup investing:
• Lower investment minimums, which can then make it easier to get access to early-stage venture as an asset class. For reference, we typically take investor checks as low as $5,000.
• Startup founders can consolidate individual investor stakes into a single entity on the capitalization table, simplifying equity management and reporting for future investment rounds.
• There is strength in numbers Some SPVs are made up of dozens of investors and sometimes hundreds. When a startup asks for help from its investors, syndicates are often great supporters because there are so many potential helpers involved.
06
To date, would you say there is a sweet spot for New Era as far as the type of startups or investors you are working with?
For startups, we typically invest in pre-seed and seed-stage tech startups with a focus on Gen Z founding teams across the United States. We’re sectoragnostic and have invested across various industries including consumer fintech, cybersecurity, edtech, gaming, and more. We do not lead investment rounds and require a lead investor before participating in any startup’s financing round.
As for investors or limited partners, our investors come from many different backgrounds although the majority
of them are current startup founders, former startup founders, startup employees, or big tech workers. We’re open to working with investors from any background as long as they are accredited and align with our mission to support the next generation of startup entrepreneurs.
07
In the time I’ve known you, I have seen how well you have done in developing relationships with a wide variety of people all over the country. You are wellliked and I think that helps as your new connections are willing to make new intros for you to not only broaden your network but get behind you on what you’re working on with New Era.
As your network grows and you’re helping connect founders, how are you going
about managing that?
Venture capital is a relationship business through and through, and building a Rolodex of potential helpers for your portfolio companies is paramount. These helpers could be investors, customers, potential hires, service providers, industry experts, etc. Once we decide to invest in a founding team, it’s in our own best interest to do all that we can to make relevant and timely introductions for the founding team with the hope that those contacts might have a material impact on the business.
One way that we’re aiming to operationalize and scale this process is through our own internal operating system. In its current state, we’ve built an introduction tool for our founders that allows them to parse through our personal networks and get in touch with anyone who might be relevant by simply clicking "Make Intro." We have several other new features in mind and are always listening to our customers, the founders, to improve this product. Although our operating system isn’t novel in its current form, it’s the foundation for what we hope will be one of the many differentiating factors convincing founders to work with us over other early-stage investors.
08
Looking at your portfolio of companies you’ve invested in, can you please tell me about any recent ones or companies you’re excited about?
Jokingly, this is like asking a parent who their favorite child is. We’re incredibly proud and honored to be involved with all of our portfolio companies but a few that might be especially interesting for readers are Fizz (joinfizz.com), DeepMedia (deepmedia.ai), Ender (joinender.com), and Textla (textla.com)
Fizz is the student debit card that helps build credit. In a world where student debt is crippli so many young people and prospects for home ownership look bleak for young people, Fizz’s debit card helps Gen Z build credit with no risk of overspending, no interest rates, and nothing to be afraid of. It is credit building for young adults in easy mode.
Deep Media is a Deepfake Detection and AI Safety company that works with the U.S. Department of Defense and
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large tech companies. The next several months will be an exciting but crucial moment in the company’s history with the Presidential election in November.
Ender is an online after-school club where kids ages 7-13 can explore their interests together through collaborative and supervised games on Minecraft and Roblox. Ender is unique because it creates a safe environment for kids to be creative in the games that they already love. Over time, Ender plans to roll clubs for art, robotics, coding, and more, all with the goal of making kids build employable skills outside of the traditional environments for education.
Textla is an SMS marketing app for small businesses. We’re incredibly excited about what Textla is able to offer to budget-sensitive and low-resourced SMBs who want to communicate with their customers. Typically, if a small business wants to run SMS campaigns, they need to hire developers to build mass messaging capabilities on Twilio’s APIs, or they work with resellers who charge an arm and a leg. Textla offers a low-cost, no-code tool that’s simple and inexpensive—a no-brainer for most SMBs.
09
If you could go back in time to Carter from several years ago, what hindsight advice would you give yourself?
The advice I would pass to my younger self is to be more honest with myself and to find my convictions from within. In the past, I spent too much time working on the wrong things and spending time with the wrong people. I wasn’t engaged enough in my work, and I wasn’t growing amongst some of the people in my life. I knew it but I was afraid of accepting it as truth. Part of learning how to be honest with
myself was doing my best to ignore outside pressures and influences who, though well-intentioned, were steering me towards work that I was not truly excited about. Finding true conviction is a prerequisite for doing great work and it’s also a hack for finding your early believers.
I also want to note that I’ve been lucky enough to meet some amazing people over the last couple of years who have taught me, inspired me, challenged me, and helped me believe in myself. I met those people because I was looking for them and because I’ve worked hard to grow those relationships. If I could go back, I’d tell my younger self to find those people sooner.
10
About John
Lastly, in what I describe as my StartupBREW question, what can we do as a community to help you and New Era Ventures succeed?
The best thing you could do to help us succeed is to support local entrepreneurs. As investors, we benefit from a more vibrant startup ecosystem here in our backyard because that means we might see more attractive investment opportunities. For every successful startup entrepreneur in the region, dozens more might feel compelled and supported enough to pursue their own venture.
If you’d like to learn more about our firm or any of our portfolio companies, you can reach me via email at carter@neweraventures.com
