The Bridge: November - December 2022

COMMUNITY BUILDERS

Community Builders are enhancing the FMWF community by investing in our programs and initiatives at the highest level.

VISIONARY COMMUNITY BUILDERS

What is a Community Builder?

Community Builders are a group of leading corporate citizens dedicated to the economic prosperity and progress of the region. Community Builders represent the highest level of Chamber investment, and their commitment enables The Chamber to promote and protect business, inspire innovation, cultivate communities, influence action, and be a catalyst for economic growth and prosperity.

Becoming a Community Builder distinguishes your business among the ranks of the most prominent, successful, involved and community-minded companies in the region, as they dedicate time and resources to shape our community. Community Builders receive access to top officials and Chamber leadership, and contribute input that shapes public policy and strengthens the local business climate through the work of The Chamber. Further, Community Builders receive unprecedented recognition throughout the business community.

A note from the President

Your FMWF Chamber has served and represented Fargo, Moorhead, West Fargo and our greater metro for over a decade as a combined chamber. We are heading into a new fiscal year with energy, focus and collaboration.

Our businesses need to attract and retain top talent and stay competitive amidst changing and uncertain times. We are committed to providing our members with top-tier events, programming, benefits and opportunities to engage and thrive.

I want to take a moment to thank you all for your integral role in driving tremendous success and achievement within our community. Every step forward we take as an organization, community and region is made possible by you – our dedicated members investing time, talent and resources into building a better tomorrow for FMWF and beyond. I am excited to share with you what we have been up to lately in the community, and the big goals and plans we have for the future.

Recently, our community was a part of something that was the highlight of my career as a chamber executive. In August, our Chamber Foundation was awarded a $9.62 million Good Jobs Challenge Grant from the Economic Development Administration. Together with several community organizations, we will be bolstering our region’s economy by training and developing a skilled workforce in the industries of precision agriculture, advanced manufacturing and cybersecurity/IT. I am beyond grateful for the dedication and support from our entire community, and especially the 78 businesses and elected officials who submitted letters of support for this grant. We look forward to working with new and additional partners on this initiative, making a major impact in our region, and sharing the stories every step of the way.

Be sure to tune into our upcoming events that we have slated for the next few months. From Holiday Business After Hours, to sitting down with your mayors at State of the Cities, and another major Midwest Economic Summit, we have a full agenda of fun experiences and significant community conversations that you should be involved in.

We are one community, working together to propel us all forward. The Chamber is here to be a catalyst for growth and prosperity, and we are looking forward to another year of accomplishment together and creating solutions to our greatest challenges.

Shannon Full President & CEO

Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber of Commerce

Follow Shannon on Twitter! @FMWFShannon

Meet The Chamber Staff NEWHIRES! #ChamberCrew

Please briefly describe what you do in your position.

As an Engagement Strategist, it is my goal to continue to grow relationships with our members past, present and future from first introductions to renewal and everywhere in between. I also help maximize member visibility through several advertising channels.

What do you love about your role so far?

Why would you recommend businesses or professionals get involved in The Chamber?

The Chamber is a hub of resources, not only to help grow your business, but help grow the community as a whole. Between the events, trainings, programs and more, there is something for every person or business.

Boor Engagement Strategist

I love learning the stories of each organization in our community and gaining a deeper perspective into how they’ve helped shape our metro.

Please briefly describe what you do in your position.

As the Talent Development Manager, I manage The Chamber’s Professionals of Color program, Women Connect program, and the Young Professional Network.

What do you love about your role so far?

Seebold Talent Development Manager

Project Manager

So far, I love getting to meet new people and getting to work with the different committee members who volunteer to help plan our programming for the professionals of color, young professionals, and women in our community.

Please briefly describe what you do in your position.

As the Grant Project Manager, I bring to life the EDA Good Jobs Challenge grant received by The Chamber Foundation in August. My task involves building on foundations to get 900 people great jobs within our region’s precision agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and cybersecurity/IT industries.

What do you love about your role so far?

The people! The team at The Chamber and Foundation provide a great home base, but the real joy of this project is that I get to be out in the community connecting with the humans that make our region amazing.

Why would you recommend businesses or professionals get involved in The Chamber?

In my short time at The Chamber, I’ve learned how involved and passionate The Chamber staff are in making our FMWF community more prosperous. When businesses and professionals become involved in The Chamber, they get to utilize the resources and the community to grow their personal businesses and themselves while growing and making our community stronger.

Why would you recommend businesses or professionals get involved in The

Chamber?

This chamber works hard for this community. While we are all interesting and unique people with different backgrounds, the direction of The Chamber is forward. There is a great support from this team for one another and for the community we serve.

Dr. Curtis Sullivan

Grant

Brianna

Hannah

Promoting and protecting business, inspiring innovation, cultivating communities and influencing action.

bringing our community together

The Chamber is proud to offer unapparelled experiences and opportunities for Chamber and community members to connect, engage, experience, learn, grow and of course –have fun. From welcoming nationally recognized speakers and leaders, to supporting our military in our own back yard, The Chamber’s events leave a lasting impact on attendees and the community.

This past year, The Chamber was proud to host OVER 150 EVENTS which welcomed and impacted more than 15,000 ATTENDEES.

VOICES OF VISION

This spring, ‘Dirty Jobs’ host Mike Rowe visited the FMWF community to join us as the Voices of Vision keynote speaker. He discussed the importance of enhancing skilled trade training, education opportunities, and coming together as a community to solve our biggest challenges. At a time when workforce needs are at an all-time high, his discussion was timely and relatable for those in attendance.

CORPORATE CUP

Every summer, The Chamber hosts the Corporate Cup – a full day for members to get out of the office and enjoy team building and some friendly competition. This summer did not disappoint. From tug-of-war to volleyball and everything in between, members enjoyed a day of play and getting to know fellow Chamber members from across the community.

WOMEN CONNECT CELEBRATION

Mel Robbins brought energy and inspiration to the big stage at our eighth annual Women Connect Celebration. We had deep and meaningful moments throughout the afternoon with a healthy dose of laughing, crying, connecting and strengthening relationships with OVER 1,600 INSPIRATIONAL WOMEN FROM OUR COMMUNITY.

MILITARY APPRECIATION NIGHT

The annual Military Appreciation Night at The RedHawks has become a favorite within the local military community and Chamber membership alike. This August, we were able to WELCOME NEARLY 1,000 MILITARY MEMBERS and their families to a night of fun at the ballpark which included a picnic, balloon animals, music, recognition and more. The Chamber is proud to honor and support our community’s military members and their families

elevating our region’s presence and impact

The Chamber has been working around the clock to elevate and strengthen our region’s presence, voice and collaborative partnerships.

MIDWEST SUMMITS

The Upper Midwest is not only the place we all call home, it is a national and global powerhouse in many areas, including our economic impact, agriculture, technology and energy. The Midwest Summit series is an impactful way we can combine efforts and convene our industry leaders and policymakers from across multiple states to discuss those four critical topics. These events are hosted live in Fargo and are livestreamed to chambers, associations, schools, businesses and industry leaders across the Upper Midwest and beyond. So far in it’s first year, the event series has welcomed 26 COHOSTING CHAMBERS of commerce and nearly 2,000 ATTENDEES from FMWF and across the region.

LIVE IN FARGO-MOORHEAD CAMPAIGN

To address the ongoing workforce challenges in our metro, The Chamber, the Fargo-Moorhead Convention and Visitors Bureau, and the Greater Fargo Moorhead EDC joined forces to launch and lead a campaign in the Minneapolis-St. Paul area to bring awareness to the FMWF area, targeting jobseekers, young professionals and families who have expressed interest in relocation or a career change.

• 4,835% traffic increase to LiveInFMArea.com

• 3.2 million impressions on digital ads

• 1.02 million impressions on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube

• 141,000 link clicks on social media

WASHINGTON D.C. FLY-IN

The Chamber’s annual D.C. Fly-In features key meetings and face time with U.S. Congressional delegates, federal agencies, and other major decision makers and stakeholders. Businesses and military leaders from the FMWF area were able to discuss and advance issues that are key to the success of our region, as well as represent FMWF on the national stage and raise awareness for our area.

EAST MEETS WEST

This year marked the first East Meets West tour, where chambers, businesses, legislators and influential leaders from across North Dakota were able to meet in person and connect on various state-wide policies, challenges and new opportunities. Strengthening our ties, relationships and lines of communication will enhance our ability to accomplish major goals not only as a metro area but as an entire state.

METRO PROFILE & BRIDGE DISTRIBUTION

The Bridge, The Chamber’s flagship publication, has recently seen significant enhancements to increase the reach and impact of our Chamber and community voice. The bi-monthly magazine now has an increased number of timely topics and stories, is mailed directly to OVER 5,000 AREA BUSINESSES AND LEADERS, and the digital version of each issue is sent to approximately 50,000 INDIVIDUALS in the FMWF region.

In addition, The Chamber publishes a yearly Metro Profile for attracting and acclimating new and relocated talent, families and businesses to our vibrant region. This year, we expanded distribution and had a presence in the Minneapolis- St. Paul International Airport, along with dozens of hotels between the FMWF region and the Twin Cities. In 2023, our presence in outside markets will increase further.

MAKIN’ IT

Launched in spring of 2021, this series has Chamber President & CEO Shannon Full exploring every facet of our industry-diverse region to highlight and focus on the people who “Make It” here in FMWF. Shannon will get hands on with the jobs that keep our community operating every day, and explore careers that many people may not know exist right in our own backyards. These episodes are also distributed outside of the FMWF region, as another way to pull back the curtain and showcase our community, people and opportunities.

• 15 western legislators, 5 regional chambers, key state leaders

engaging and inspiring emerging leaders

The Chamber is dedicated to engaging and inspiring emerging leaders in our community. With programs like the Young Professionals Network, Professionals of Color, Leadership FMWF and more, participants have the option to become members, join active committees and work together to build a better community.

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK (YPN)

The Young Professionals Network (YPN) is home to the leaders and influencers of tomorrow. Throughout this past year, members had the opportunity to meet other professionals, tour businesses, volunteer, attend happy hours, participate in professional development events and so much more. The program saw a 23.9% INCREASE in the number of active and engaged YPs in our community. There are also various committees for members to take their involvement to the next level, including professional development, member engagement, social and more.

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR (POC)

Professionals of Color (POC) is a vibrant and inclusive environment that engages individuals reflective of the full spectrum of diverse backgrounds in our region. The program saw a 49.1% INCREASE in the number of active and engaged professionals of color in our community. POC hosted several monthly events, including networking, professional development, education, and service opportunities. POC is on a mission to impact the FMWF community by creating inclusive opportunities to develop personally and professionally through meaningful engagement and a sense of belonging.

LEADERSHIP FMWF

Every year, 40 participants are selected to be members of the Leadership FMWF class. These emerging leaders come from varying backgrounds within our community, and come together to grow as leaders and improve the community. Participants work together to create Community Change Initiatives, which aim to provide real-world solutions to issues happening right here in our community. This year, seven projects were completed. A few highlights include a single parent support community; a program to introduce sports to underprivileged children; and an election resource, known as voteFMWF, to increase civic engagement.

amplifying the voice of our businesses

The Chamber actively serves as the voice of business to promote a vibrant and prosperous metro and region, and works across our communities, region, states and nation to keep our finger on our most pressing issues and to accomplish our area’s priorities.

THE FM DIVERSION PROJECT

This summer, our community came together to celebrate the official groundbreaking of the FM Area Diversion Project, an over decadelong project fueled by community organizations, residents and policymakers working together and advocating for permanent flood protection. The collaboration throughout our communities, on both sides of the river, is truly remarkable, and all parties involved should be proud of this one-of-a-kind project that we were able to bring to fruition together. The Chamber’s taskforce, Business Leaders for Permanent Flood Protection, is an illustration of what can be achieved when we bring leaders and businesses together to advance an issue.

ENGAGING AND EDUCATING OUR COMMUNITY

During election season and throughout the year, The Chamber is committed to sharing election and candidate information to reduce barriers and encourage election participation. State capitol visits, candidate forums, election guides, legislative reviews, video series and social media efforts are just a handful of ways Chamber and community members got involved and gained information to prepare for important local, state and national elections.

COMMITTEES INFLUENCING ACTION

The Chamber has continued to encouraged business and community members to get involved in various efforts and initiatives to further amplify the voice and impact of our community. The Military Affairs Committee works to foster a community of support for the men and women of our military through events, activities and policy promotion. The Chamber’s Military Affairs Committee was presented with the Bridge Builder award at the 2022 North Dakota Governor’s Military Ball, for working together to ensure readiness and enduring success of the ND National Guard.

The Agribusiness Committee serves as an extension of The Chamber’s policy efforts, and is comprised of businesses and leaders representing the agriculture industry in the Red River Valley, advocating at all levels of government and spreading awareness of its impact of agriculture throughout the region. The Chamber’s Agribusiness Committee hosted an ag industry breakfast at the 2022 Big Iron show to convene leaders, collaborate and address challenges and opportunities.

connecting, supporting and lifting up our members

Our members are at the heart of everything we do. We strive to provide the support and resources our members need to grow and flourish.

The Chamber has OVER 80 AMBASSADORS dedicated to engaging and connecting our members with peers and leaders, helping them to achieve their business goals in the community. Chamber Ambassadors celebrated OVER 100 RIBBON CUTTINGS, MILESTONES and CEREMONIES with our members this past year.

Beyond the HUNDREDS of events and over 600 ONEON-ONE DISCUSSIONS and MEETINGS we were able to hold with our members this past year, we also partnered and collaborated with many organizations and industry professionals to set our member businesses up for success. We aim to keep our members and community at the table and in the know when it comes to all things business. We are also proud to lift up our member businesses and offer them the visibility, credibility and storytelling platform they deserve.

organizational impact

When it comes to personal and professional development, The Chamber team is involved with many great organizations across the region and nation. The Chamber team is also currently implementing and experiencing EOS, which focuses on helping teams improve vision, traction, impact and staying healthy.

Every year our team members are involved in the Association of Chamber of Commerce Executives (ACCE), Mid-America Chamber Executives (MACE), Leadership FMWF and serve on various boards throughout the community. It is crucial that our team members are constantly learning, connecting and developing as professionals, to better serve our membership and community. We also prioritized going out into the community together to give back and volunteer.

As we grow our team to better serve our community and region, we will be pursuing a new building and business resource hub to suit our growth and impact as an organization. This new building will also provide a common space for collaboration with various small businesses and mission-aligned organizations throughout our region.

President & CEO Shannon Full is proud to serve on the U.S. Chamber’s Committee of 100 and ACCE’s Board of Directors, bringing our voice to the national stage and keeping our organization and community directly connected to discussions at the highest level.

• Joining forces with community organizations

• Engaging with initiatives throughout FMWF

• Connecting and developing our team

tackling our region’s biggest challenges

As our region continues to grow and evolve, The Chamber continues to address specific challenges that may impact the growth and success of FMWF. Of the many challenges facing our metro that The Chamber is actively working on, the FMWF workforce is of top priority. The Chamber, community leaders and partner organizations have been dedicated to championing several initiatives and programs to overcome these challenges.

IGNITE INITIATIVE

The Ignite initiative works to connect students, educators, professionals, businesses, and non-profits through meaningful opportunities and its platform, Ignite FMWF.

• Features OVER 1200 CAREER CARDS connecting users to regional education and career opportunities

• Trained over 100 EDUCATORS across Cass & Clay counties on platform utilization

• PILOTED IGNITE SUMMER EDVENTURES in partnership with Cass County CTE, connecting over 20 educators directly with businesses and non-profits

• Filmed MORE THAN 100 VIDEOS with local businesses communicating career awareness, exploration, and preparation

IGNITE REGIONAL WORKFORCE TRAINING

In August, The FMWF Chamber Foundation was awarded a $9.62 MILLION EDA GOOD JOBS CHALLENGE GRANT. The FMWF Chamber Foundation, in collaboration with organizations such as Grand Farm, NDSCS, Emerging Prairie, University of Mary and Workbay, will bolster the region’s economy by growing the skilled workforce necessary to support the regional manufacturing, agriculture and cybersecurity/IT industries. Over the next three years, our region can expect MORE THAN 900 PARTICIPANTS to receive training and placement through programs funded by the grant, with an estimated $59 MILLION IMPACT IN SALARIES.

• $9.62 million grant

• 900+ participants to receive training and placement

• $59 million impact in salaries

•

FUELING OUR FUTURE

Fueling Our Future (FOF) is a joint venture between The Chamber and the Greater Fargo Moorhead EDC. The program provides a platform for regional leaders to convene, identity, understand, discuss and invest in initiatives that will provide our region with lasting positive impact. Fueling Our Future strives to collaborate with community partners and resources to power initiatives that drive this impact.

FOF has supported:

• Emerging Digital Academy

• Career Workforce Academies

• Ignite FMWF

• Campus FM

• Document-Ready Sites

• Workforce Exposure Initiatives

• Building Inclusive and Equitable Workplaces

FOF recently unveiled a master workforce and talent strategy which has identified four specific goals:

Develop and fund a systemic approach to align workforce efforts region wide

Expand and retain the regional labor pool

Prime the workforce pipeline

Enhance and match adult skills

INFLUENCING ACTION

It is imperative to convene influential public figures, industry leaders and our businesses for crucial conversations surrounding the challenges and opportunities that face our region and community. Last year, events such as Eggs & Issues and State of the Cities intentionally dove into topics such as workforce challenges, childcare shortages and costs, education needs, city funding, housing, new laws and much more.

Several key initiatives launched, supported and/ or successfully completed • Master workforce and talent strategy unveiled

Tuesday, October 18

was a day filled with celebration of the past, excitement and determination for the future, and recognition of many incredible community and Chamber members and volunteers. Outgoing Chamber Board Chair Shawn Dobberstein kicked off the event by celebrating major initiatives and milestones, and highlighting the impact we have had together over the past year. Shawn, along with Incoming Chamber Board Chair Peter Stenehjem, made time to recognize and thank the many dedicated volunteers that The Chamber is lucky and proud to have.

The 2022 Legacy Leader, Richard Solberg, was then officially honored. Attendees were able to hear touching remarks from Bruce Furness, enjoy an impactful video showcasing Richard’s life and accomplishments, and of course, hear from Mr. Solberg himself. We applaud and thank Richard for his decades of leadership not only at Bell Bank, but in our community and beyond. As Bruce Furness said, “He is a leader’s leader.”

Chamber President and CEO Shannon Full and Board Chair Peter Stenehjem closed the event with meaningful conversation regarding the big goals that lay ahead for The Chamber. Topics included the $9.62 EDA grant and Ignite Workforce Initiative, Fueling Our Future 2.0, and The Chamber’s new Business Resource Hub building. Thank you to all of our sponsors, volunteers and attendees for making it a memorable afternoon, and all our members for your dedication to The Chamber. 2023 will be another year full of action and impact.

Welcome to The Chamber 2022-23 video

Richard Solberg’s 2022 Legacy Leader video ANNUAL CELEBRATION

LEGACY SPONSORS

Full stream ahead. Choo choo.

All aboard! Midco® network upgrades are here. Go from good enough to unbeatable speeds. No contracts or data caps. Every day. Every night. Every second. Enjoy affordable, reliable and local services that keep up with your ongoing internet demands.

A refresher

On August 3, The FMWF Chamber Foundation announced receiving a $9.62 million Good Jobs Challenge Grant from the Economic Development Administration (EDA). The FMWF Chamber Foundation will collaborate with backbone organizations including Grand Farm Research and Education Initiative, North Dakota State College of Science, Emerging Prairie, and University of Mary to use Ignite FMWF (powered by Workbay) to bolster and uplift the region’s economy through developing the skilled workforce needed to support our precision agriculture, advanced manufacturing, and Cybersecurity/IT industries.

In partnership with local employers, The FMWF Chamber Foundation will cultivate training programs to meet the unique skills required to enter targeted industries and retain good jobs for the future. With a focus on underserved communities – including new Americans, BIPOC, veterans, military spouses, and justice-involved individuals – the grant will allow The FMWF Chamber Foundation and its partners to provide a variety of wraparound services and reduce prohibitive barriers that people face such as childcare, transportation, and credentialling.

An update

In late October, The Chamber Foundation hosted a week-long Ignite Visioning Summit with dedicated industry sessions to discuss specific challenges related to each industry. Each half-day session also featured a presentation and Q&A session with John Pallasch, Former Assistant Secretary for

LAUNCHING OF VOTEFMWF

The Chamber, in partnership with VoteFMWF, recently published the VoteFMWF.org website for the 2022 general election.

VoteFMWF is a non-partisan website created by a group of volunteers in an effort to provide resources for FMWF voters during election seasons. The founding group members are recent alumni of The Chamber’s 2022 Leadership FMWF class, where they developed VoteFMWF as a

Community Change Initiative. The VoteFMWF group and The Chamber will continue this initiative into the future to address a need for a non-partisan, community-wide, ‘all-inone’ voting website for the community.

Visit VoteFMWF.org to learn more about the local candidates running for seats this election. The Chamber does not endorse candidates but provides opportunities for the community to be educated, engaged and informed.

THE CHAMBER OPPOSED NORTH DAKOTA MEASURE #1

In October, The Chamber officially opposed ND Measure 1, urging all North Dakota voters to reject the measure. The FMWF Chamber was among several other North Dakota chambers of commerce that were urging a ‘no vote’ on this particular measure. We engaged in media campaigns and efforts to inform members of the public and stand up for what’s best for our businesses and community. If you would like to read more about the measure, and why The Chamber opposed it, visit this blog post.

Leading up to the elections, The Chamber hosted two public events to give business leaders and residents the opportunity to connect with and hear from their local candidates running in the 2022 general election. Thank you to our candidates, attendees, public policy sponsors and venue hosts for making efforts like this effective and impactful.

October 26, The Chamber’s leadership traveled to Bismarck, ND to advocate against Measure 1.

One of the foundational pillars of our Chamber’s work is advocacy. We take our work in public policy seriously, and believe it’s one of the best benefits of Chamber membership.

Public policy doesn’t mean politics—though it does often involve government. Rather, it refers to issues that affect businesses and individuals. They are governing principles that affect all of us every day.

A collective voice through an association like a chamber matters because we can do more together. With your support, we can work for you, and for the community. We know that a strong business climate is essential for economic growth and prosperity as a region.

“Our governmental leaders benefit from hearing first-hand how their actions and policies affect our business community’s economic health and workforce stability. The Chamber magnifies our voices, creating far more impact than we could create individually.”

Visit The Chamber's website and learn more!

Local elections and policies have the power to shape our community for years to come, which is why we are committed to reducing barriers and encouraging members from our entire community to become even more educated and engaged in these processes.

Tami Norgard, Vogel Law Firm

Recently, the team at Spotlight sat down with a few of Fueling Our Future’s (FOF) leadership to discuss the initiative, recent accomplishments, and what the future holds. Check out this issue of Fargo INC! to learn more about:

In August, Women Connect welcomed Zoe Bundy to the stage for a motivating and empowering session about becoming rejection proof. Attendees learned that the word “no” isn’t always bad, and how to take rejection in both personal and professional settings and turn it in to growth.

WOMEN CONNECT

WOMEN

Author, speaker and aviator Carey Lohrenz joined us in FMWF as the keynote speaker for this year’s Women Connect Celebration. As the first female F-14 Tomcat pilot, she was a pioneer in military aviation. She drew on this experience to inspire our attendees to take risks, stand up for yourself, take big challenges and obstacles in life and have fun along the way.

Carey spent time getting to know attendees before and after the event, and had the pleasure of meeting many local military men and women from our own community.

Thank you to our sponsors, attendees, military men and women, and Women Connect committee for making this a successful and inspiring event.

Stay tuned to find out who will be coming to our community and taking the stage next fall!

PRESENTING SPONSOR

GOLD SPONSORS

CORPORATE SPONSORS

Advanced Business Methods | Alerus | American Crystal Sugar Company | Bell Bank

Bethany Retirement Living | Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND | Bobcat Company | Bremer Bank

Cass County Electric Cooperative | Choice Bank | Cole Papers | Consolidated Communications

Cornerstone Bank | Dabbert Custom Homes | Dacotah Bank | Dakota Wealth Management

Dakota Supply Group | Delta by Marriott | Eide Bailly LLP | Eventide Senior Living Communities

Fargo Jet Center | Flint Group | First International Bank & Trust | First Western Bank & Trust

Gate City Insurance Agency | Gate City Investment Services | Heartland Trust Company | Hebron Brick

Heritage Homes | KLJ Engineering | Light Consulting & Coaching | Marsh McLennan Agency | Microsoft

Minnesota State University Moorhead | MWC Advertising of FM | National Hospitality Services

Northern Pipe Products | Red River Commodities | R.D. Offutt Company / RDO Equipment Co.

Sanford Health | Starion Bank | Thomsen Homes | Titan Machinery | Vogel Law Firm

Wallwork Financial | Western State Bank | Xcel Energy

PRODUCTION SPONSOR

Marketing solutions for businesses serious about growth.

We believe in the strength of our community. We are proud to help local businesses reach their goals. Our business and marketing consultants have years of experience helping local businesses grow utilizing a multimedia approach.

Working together, we create strategies that will attract your target audience and get them to convert. We customize each and every campaign based on your goals and unique business needs.

PRESENTING SPONSOR

September marked the second Business After Hours event of the year. Attendees got together at the Delta by Marriott and visited with exhibitors, enjoyed tasty beverages and snacks, played games, and as always – won some great door prizes. We had a great time connecting with members and sponsors at the event. A special thank you to our presenting sponsor, Sparklight, for making this event possible and giving away the ultimate tailgate package!

THUR, DEC 01 4 TO 6:30 P.M. • DELTA BY MARRIOTT

Make sure to mark your calendars and sign up for your booth for the December Business After hours on Thursday, December 1. This sell out event is the perfect time to ring in the holiday season and celebrate with members and friends.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

SECRETS OF BUSINESS SUCCESS SYMPOSIUM

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 20

7:45 A.M. - 12:30 P.M. • MICROSOFT CAMPUS

In October we joined forces with the SBA and its regional resource partners to bring the Secrets of Business Success Symposium to our members and business leaders! The event convened small business owners, operators and professionals from around the region to hear from other leaders, and participate in breakout sessions and roundtable discussions, focusing on the areas that are most critical to our small businesses. Topics included marketing, finance, hiring and onboarding, succession planning and much more. It was a day filled with cultivating connections and providing meaningful and tangible takeaways.

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

BOOTH SPONSORS

THUR, DEC 01

4 TO 6:30 P.M. • DELTA BY MARRIOTT

Are you and your team ready to get into the holiday spirt at The Chamber’s largest Business After Hours of the year? At this year’s event we will be pulling out all of the stops to make this an unforgettable evening. Our members will be enjoying great appetizers, sampling endless treats from vendors, testing their luck and skills in countless games, and of course connecting with hundreds of the leaders, professionals and businesses that make this business community thrive.

Don’t miss your chance to host a booth and represent your business in a packed and energetic ballroom, or to get tickets with your friends and coworkers. Booth and ticket registrations are now open. Visit fmwfchamber.com and register today.

PRESENTING SPONSORS

WITH YOU FROM START-UP TO SUCCESSION.

Every day is different for your business. The financial service and expertise you require from day to day will change, too. As your finance and benefits demands change it’s important to have a partner who can meet your needs as you need them. Your Alerus advisor is a business expert who tailors all our financial resources to help your business take flight.

See how we take business personally at Alerus.com.

MIDWES T Economic Outlook Summit

The 2023 Midwest Economic Outlook Summit is steadily approaching, are you and your business going to be a part of it? Last year we heard from key industry leaders and policymakers from across the Upper Midwest and nation about the major economic challenges, opportunities and potential shifts to expect. It was a day filled with diverse perspectives, business and government leaders, industry experts, and difficult yet crucial conversations. 2023 will be no different – and we aim to further enhance the reach and impact. Now with over 25 co-hosting chambers of commerce across the region, our voice continues to strengthen, and we want you to join us.

Learn more about the Midwest Economic Outlook Summit, and the entire summit series.

Midwest Economic Outlook Summit Wednesday, February 8 8 to 11 a.m. Delta by Marriott and livestream

Statement of Ownership, Management & Circulation

This form signifies The Bridge’s periodical status. Please contact us with any questions at 218.233.1100 or email us at thebridge@ fmwfchamber.com.

Delta by Marriott Fargo

This is the time of year when we get all of our mayors from across the metro together in one room to directly address YOU, our Chamber and community members. The event will feature a Q&A with the mayors, and audience members will weigh in on issues and topics facing our communities. We invite you to this important event, as we keep our city leaders directly connected to our business community. Curious to see what we covered with the mayors last year? Check out this article and video by the InForum.

Your biggest assets deserve the best care. Whether they’re working remote three states away or you see them every morning at the coffee machine, be confident they can see the doctors they want and carry on. Shop plans now. nd.blue/employer2022

Your biggest assets deserve the best care. Whether they’re working remote three states away or you see them every morning at the coffee machine, be confident they can see the doctors they want and carry on. Shop plans now. nd.blue/employer2022

MONTHLY EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

Each month, The Chamber’s programs host a wide variety of events that focus on a range of key topics, centered around the interests of our members and the entire business community. These dynamic offerings engage and educate our members while providing unparalleled networking opportunities. Now is the time to get involved!

Stay up to date with these programs and our full events calendar at fmwfchamber.com

EGGS & ISSUES

Innovation in Education: Building Tomorrow’s Workforce

Tuesday, December 6 | 8 to 9:30 a.m.

Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead and livestream

Fighting

the Stigma:

Mental & Behavioral Health Crisis

Tuesday, January 10 | 8 to 9:30 a.m. Courtyard by Marriott Moorhead and livestream

WOMEN CONNECT

Wide Open: The Path to Healing

Tuesday, November 15 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Avalon Events Center and livestream Speakers: Dr. Tiffany Johnson and her daughter Callyn Johnson

January session

Tuesday, January 24 | 3:30 to 5 p.m.

Avalon Events Center and livestream

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

Discuss, Connect & Reflect

Tuesday, November 15 Noon to 1 p.m. | Virtual

Networking Before 9

Wednesday, December 7 8 to 9 a.m. | Red River Coffee

Discuss, Connect & Reflect

Wednesday, December 14 Noon to 1 p.m. | Virtual

Volunteer:

YPN

Fraser Festival of Trees

Monday, November 7 | 3 to 5 p.m.

FARGODOME | 1800 N University Dr, Fargo Business Tour: Prairie Rose Meadery

Thursday, November 10 | 4 to 5 p.m. 3101 39th St S, Suite E, Fargo

Off the Clock

Thursday, November 17 | 5:15 to 7 p.m. MacKenzie River | 819 24th Ave E, West Fargo

Morning Buzz

Thursday, November 22 | 7:30 to 9 a.m. Profile Plan | 2521 8th St S, Moorhead

Join area community leaders as we represent business interests in our nation’s capital this fall. The Chamber’s annual D.C. Fly-In will feature key meetings with U.S. Congressional delegates, federal agencies and other major stakeholders. Business and military leaders from the FMWF area will discuss and advance issues that are important to our region. Topics of conversation will include energy, agriculture, immigration, military and more. It is important that we as a business community represent our region on the national stage, raising national awareness for the FMWF area.

See additional details and the full trip agenda at fmwfchamber.com

Welcome to the following businesses who joined The Chamber in August!

Butler Machinery Company

butlermachinery.com

Construction Equipment - Supplies Butler Machinery Company is a family-owned business that specializes in the Sale, Service, Parts, and Rental of Construction and Agriculture related equipment.

Clues & Keys

cluesandkeys.com

Arts & Entertainment

Clues and Keys Family Escape Rooms offers escape rooms that are great for the entire family including elementary-age-children.

Dacotah Bank dacotahbank.com

Financial Services

Dacotah Bank is uniquely nimble as a state-chartered bank and locally impactful through Give Where We Live. Dacotah Bank provides banking, insurance, mortgage, and trust and wealth management services to customers who enjoy existing financial relationships with us.

Fargo Escape Room fargoescaperoom.com

Arts & Entertainment

Fargo Escape Room offers fun and challenging escape rooms that will test your ability to communicate, cooperate and cogitate in order to solve puzzles and win.

GSD Enterprises

Consultants – Management

We have many avenues, but technology consulting and commercial real estate is our main focus. We also own a food truck in the area – Truckin’ Good Food!

H&I Nutrition

hninutrition.com Health – Nutrition / Wellness Locally owned and operated; H&I nutrition sells top of the line nutritional supplementation products and houses Alpha Kitchen Elite Fit Shakes where you can order prepared, ready to drink non-soy protein shakes.

The Ridge ridgend.org

Counseling Services

The Ridge Treatment and Reentry Center is a premiere alcohol and drug treatment center offering a specialized extended care program that is customized to the needs and circumstances of each individual.

Van Dam Financial Group vandamfinancialgroup.nm.com

Financial & Insurance and Financial Services

It is our mission is to help as many people as possible in this community. Everybody wants to be on the right track financially but most people don’t know where to start and may be embarrassed to ask. We want to make the planning process simple and as stress free as possible. While having a nice lifestyle for myself and family is important, I feel that a true measure of success is that you helped make a positive impact on the people in your life.

Armory Event Center

armoryevent.com Event - Conference Center

Armory Event Center provides a historical place for weddings, corporate meetings, live music and more with in-house catering available.

Clean Response

cleanresponse.com

Contractors – Specialty Services & Restoration Founded in 1998, Clean Response offers comprehensive services related to fire, water, mold, and storm damage restoration. The Clean Response team is known for industry leading expertise, immediate response time, seamless project management, and consistent professionalism.

Fargo Mom fargo.momcollective.com Advertising

Fargo Mom is the region’s premiere parenting resource! From things to do around town with kids to real stories about motherhood from local moms, we connect moms to their community.

Gathered, LLC gatheredboutiquerentals.com Event & Meeting Planning

Gathered is a specialty rental company based in Moorhead, MN, serving upper and western MN and eastern ND. Use our collection of gorgeous furniture and decor pieces to create one of a kind event spaces, weddings, photo shoots, and trade show displays. Contact us today to learn more about how we can help with your next event or visual display!

Great States

Construction Inc. greatstates.com Contractors – General Commercial Design/Build General Contractor specializing in Multi-Family, Industrial and Tenant Improvements.

Guitar

Center

guitarcenter.com Music Stores

Guitar Center is the largest musical instrument retailer offering Lessons, Repairs and Rentals. Established in 1964, Guitar Center is proud to open our first store in North Dakota!

Imperial Flooring

imperialflooringdesign.com Design – Interior Residential/Commercial

At Imperial flooring we try our best to be a one stop shop for builders, remodelers, and contractors. Whether it be commercial or residential, our goal is to help bring our customers visions to life. We understand that each project will be different, so we carry a wide variety of flooring, tile, countertops, and carpet. We also carry lines of window coverings, closet systems, cabinets, organizational products, and cabinet hardware.

New Light Photography

newlightphotographynd.com Photographer/Videographer

We are a veteran owned/woman owned company. We are a husband/ wife team. We specialize in weddings, boudoir and portraits.

Sound Engagement, LLC soundengagement.com

The Daily Dose

dailydosefargo.com Health – Nutrition & Wellness Energize your day with our fun atmosphere and amazing shakes, teas, and aloe! Nutrition based coffee, tea & bakery bar with a networking atmosphere.

Urban Selection

instagram.com/urbanselection1.0

Retail – Store/Ecommerce & Shopping/Specialty Retail Retail shopping store selling streetwear apparel, shoes, and accessories.

Voxtelesys

voxtelesys.com Telecommunications

Work from anywhere with Voxtelesys IP Telephone service for your business. Voxtelesys delivers carrier-grade telecommunications services on time, every time. Our well-trained staff are dedicated to helping customers make smart decisions that improve efficiencies and lower costs. Our team of engineers are constantly improving our suite of services, including voice, SMS, compliance, and data services.

Great

Hall

Properties alliancemgmtgroup.com Real Estate – Development

Audio Visual Services – Rentals & Event/Meeting Planning

Sound Engagement provides event production, visual entertainment and event lighting to create a memorable celebration. With a personal touch, we provide a one-of-a-kind and stressfree service to all of our clients.

Welcome to the following businesses who joined The Chamber in September!

We thank each of them for their support in our mission and investment in their business and community. Please consider doing business with Chamber members first.

PROMOTED

Sarah Peterson Marketing Coordinator

Kevin Gunderson CAD Manager

Travis Ingebrigtson Chief Financial Officer

Katy Beckman Vice President of Business Banking

Brenden O’Meara REALTOR®

Azizi Lubungo REALTOR®

Jonathon Duellea Mental Health Registered Nurse

Stephanie Helmick Registered Nurse Hannah Hill SLS Scheduler

Doug Lee Market President East Region

Amanda Cahill Mental Health Practitioner

Sabrina Scoles Assistant Branch Manager

Nikki Nielsen Realtor

Corbyn Olson Digital Project Manager

Emily Beck Advertising & Copywriting Coordinator

Adam Schroeder Marketing & Communications Manager

Michaela Schell Entrepreneurial Development Director

Angela Jordahl Commercial Real Estate Agent

Jonny Deitz Design Intern

Misty Dietz Culture Specialist

Kimberly Carlson Executive Assistant

Josh Cook Investor Relations

Jean Clark Construction Accountant

ASPIRE BANK

Shane Fletcher Construction Manager

Matt Kalbus Architect

Kelsey Kosiak Leasing Agent

Jack Fredrickson Maintenance Technician

Jocey Hams Leasing Agent

Eric Goolst Water Park & Hotel Director

Alyssa La Deaux Events Manager

BEYOND REALTY

CAPITAL CREDIT UNION

PROMOTED

Taryn Pallen Condominium Sales

Brian Reinerts Development Project Manager

Payton Rott Office Intern

Madison Meinen Web & Graphic Designer

Marcqus Ohlmacher Construction Manager

Zach Messmer Investor Relations

Stephanie Furstenau Occupational Medicine Specialist

Terryl Johnson Endocrynology Specialist

Lisa Jostad Walk-In Care Specialist

Brianne Rudolph Commercial Real Estate Associate

Ilene Brackin Certified Physician Assistant

Calvin Volk Construction Superintendent

Amberlee Peterson Cardiology Specialist

Dr. Marie-Louise Posch Hospitalist

Dr. Michelle Radke Family Medicine Physician

Kelsey Krueger Emergency Medicine Specialist

Dr. Joseph Marion Interventional Radiology

Dr. Erin Maetzold Urogynecologist

Jon Jensen Flight Instructor

Joshua Leiding Aviation Maintenance Technician

Rochelle Rieck Walk-In Care Specialist

Andrew Fisichella Charter Pilot

Veronica Webb General Surgery/ Trauma Specialist

Trisha Baker Customer Service Representative

Maggie Furlong Junior Designer

Jane Holland Senior Proofreader

Dustlynn Aipperspach

Junior Project Manager

Joshua Carr Production Artist

Haley Carr Project Manager

Cassidy Hoverson Graphic Designer

ESSENTIA

Nicolette Bresnahan Vice President of Events

Brin Seebold Talent Development Manager

Dr. Curtis Sullivan Grant Project Manager

Maija Peldo Senior Account Manager

Hannah Boor Engagement Specialist

Chelsey Stoa Social Media & PR Strategist

Brenna LeMier Assistant to Entertainment Director

Anthony Peralta Facility & Equipment Manager

Brock Anderson Business Insurance Client Coordinator

Peighten Watson Event Support Specialist

Courtney Everson Director of Website Development

Aaron Hill Commercial Agent

Cory Brodeur Junior Media Buyer

Diane Herndon Senior Media Buyer/ Planner

Kaightie Munsch Senior Marketing Analyst

Ben Elisa Business Insurance Advisor

Nate Tanguay Business Insurance Advisor

Taylor Schafer Business Insurance Client Advocate

Kelsey Horner

Alexandra Jampsa

Abi Skinner Junior Media Buyer

Ellen Holt Vice President of Human Resources

Emily Frazier Dean of Students

Steph Jones Client Services Associate

Ashli Kottsick HR Generalist

Cheryl Miller HR Director

Ally Bergman CADD Technician

Kacey Mongeon Sales & Marketing Advisor

Joey Torgerson Structural Designer

Erin Ahneman Senior Project Director

FMWF CHAMBER

MARSH MCLENNAN AGENCY

Shannon Vogel Lien Benefits & Medicare Advisor

Malarie Carlson Behavioral Health & Wellness Coordinator

Kari Chitty Behavioral Health & Wellness Coordinator

Deanna Klein Branch Manager

Melissa Sampson Account Manager

Josh Moen Branch Manager

Aaron La Deaux Activities Director

Annie Richards Director of Behavioral Health & Wellness

PROGRAM & EVENT SPONSORS

Thank you to all of our sponsors that make The Chamber’s regular events and programs possible.

EGGS & ISSUES

PREMIER SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Bremer Bank | Concordia College

Dabbert Custom Homes | First Western Bank & Trust

Home Builders Association of FM

Moore Engineering, Inc.

MWC Advertising of Fargo Moorhead

ROERS | Ulteig | Western State Bank

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR

LEADERSHIP FMWF

PROGRAM SPONSORS

WOMEN CONNECT

PROGRAM SPONSORS

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Area Woman | Bell Bank | Blue Cross Blue Shield of ND | Choice Bank

Concordia College | Dacotah Bank | Dale Carnegie Training of ND & MN

Eventide Senior Living Communities | First Western Bank & Trust Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Otter Tail Corporation | PRO Resources | Vogel Law Firm Western State Bank

VENUE SPONSOR

EVENT PRODUCTION SPONSOR DESSERT SPONSOR

PROFESSIONALS OF COLOR

PREMIER SPONSORS

PROGRAM SPONSOR

YOUNG PROFESSIONALS NETWORK

PROGRAM SPONSOR

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Gate City Bank

SUPPORTING SPONSORS

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota

Essentia Health | Minnesota State Community and Technical College

Congratulation s

WE’RE SO PROUD YOU ARE ONE OF THE COMMUNITY’S LEGACY LEADERS.

Richard Solberg, Chairman of the Board, Bell Bank

CHAMBER LEGACY LEADER AWARD WINNE R RICHARD SOLBERG

FROM YOUR BELL BANK FAMILY AND FRIENDS