Innovate28
Driving Workforce and Economic Growth
Collaboration
Innovate 28 | Driving Workforce and Economic Growth
Innovate 28 is a transformative initiative that enhances our regional workforce, boosts economic growth, and positions the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area as a premier destination for business expansion. Join us as we work to create a skilled talent pool, attract new businesses, and influence policies that foster long-term success.
The GFMEDC, a non-profit organization, is funded both privately and publicly. Primary-sector, retail, and service-oriented businesses invest in our efforts, and the Cass and Clay County Commissions provide public funding.
Objectives
- Enhance Workforce and Economic Vitality Innovate28 attracts workers to the region, removes employment barriers and aligns skills with industry needs. Investors' contributions help create a workforce that powers business success and drives economic growth, delivering a strong return on investment.
- Workforce Ecosystem infrastructure and sustainable funding model developed and implemented
- Increase the organization’s revenue to support our mission, with a specific focus on increased private-sector funding
- Develop and maintain a common framework for regional flourishing, carving our region’s niche in the new world of work
Objectives
Enhance Workforce and Economic Vitality
Innovate28 attracts workers to the region, removes employment barriers and aligns skills with industry needs. Investors’ contributions help create a workforce that powers business success and drives economic growth, delivering a strong return on investment.
Position the Region for Economic Growth
Investor support is key to making the region a prime destination for business. Investor support fuels business expansion and entrepreneurial growth, providing investors a competitive edge in a region poised for significant growth.
Amplify Advocacy for Economic Development
Investor contributions bolster advocacy efforts that shape favorable public policies, driving workforce development and long-term growth, while protecting investors’ interests.
A Unified, Collaborative Initiative
Innovate 28 is a partnership between the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo Chamber of Commerce and the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation to deliver a collaborative vision of regional growth.
Meet the Team
Regional Leaders Driving Growth
Our growing volunteer leadership team is the driving force behind the private sector’s investment in the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo region. Dedicated community members have committed their time and expertise to ensure the region’s continued growth and success. Meet the individuals shaping a prosperous future for our area.
Campaign Co-Chairs
Tiffany Lawrence
President & CEO
Sanford Health
Campaign Co-Chair
Jeffry Volk
Executive Chair
Moore Holding Company
Campaign Co-Chair
Campaign Cabinet
Mike Arntson, Cardinal Glass
Paul Matthys, Cass County Electric
Tom Dawson, Honorary
Tony Grindberg, Xcel Energy
Jim Buus, JBC Commercial Real Estate
Jenny Olson, Microsoft
Tami Norgard, Vogel Law Firm
Roger Reierson, Flint Group, Honorary
Jon Riewer, Eventide
Howard Dahl, Amity Technology, Honorary
Pillars of Work
Talent and Workforce
Assist in growing the regional labor force by more than 12,000 workers by January 2029, representing 30% growth over historical rates.
Business Development
Facilitate 130 company expansions or relocations (33% increase) creating more than 3,500 new jobs that will provide an annual compensation of more than $74,000. When these jobs are created, the region will experience an additional $1B in annual business sales.
Public Policy
Ensure at least 28 of 38 local legislators (ND & MN) are aligned on policies prioritized by the regional business community (Currently 24 of 38 local legislators 100% aligned on priorities)
Get Involved
Innovate 28 is your opportunity to make a lasting impact on our region’s workforce and economy. Together, we can drive business success and ensure the long-term prosperity of the Fargo-Moorhead-West Fargo area.
Become an Investor Today!
Ready to take the next step toward shaping the future? Connect with a member of our team below to explore how Innovate28 can drive your success. We’re excited to discuss how you can be part of this groundbreaking journey!
Joe Raso
President & CEO
Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation
