In a significant move for North Dakota’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, a new bill—House Bill 1191—has been approved by the state’s House of Representatives. If the bill passes the Senate, it will create an Office of Entrepreneurship within the Department of Commerce. The goal? To provide essential support to entrepreneurs and small businesses across the state, with a focus on central and western North Dakota.
This step is crucial in fostering business growth and creating opportunities for new ventures in a state where small business ownership is vital to the economy. In this article, we’ll dive into the details of the bill, what it aims to achieve, and how it could shape the future of entrepreneurship in North Dakota.
What is House Bill 1191?
House Bill 1191 is a legislative proposal that seeks to create an Office of Entrepreneurship. The office would operate under the North Dakota Department of Commerce with a clear mandate to strengthen the entrepreneurial environment throughout the state.
Sponsored by Rep. Jonathan Warrey, a Republican representative from Casselton, the bill received wide support, including backing from national nonprofit organisations like Right to Start, which has been instrumental in establishing similar offices in other states.
Warrey, who also works as an executive at Marco and serves as treasurer for Emerging Prairie, a Fargo-based nonprofit dedicated to promoting entrepreneurship, sees this bill as a way to bring much-needed resources to new businesses in North Dakota—especially those outside Fargo.
Why Does North Dakota Need an Office of Entrepreneurship?
North Dakota, like many other regions in the U.S., has seen a significant dip in new business creation. According to Right to Start, the creation of new businesses is at a 40-year low across the country.
For Warrey, this is a pressing issue. As a long-time supporter of small businesses, he understands that small business owners are the real job creators in the U.S. economy. However, the challenges of navigating state bureaucracy, accessing resources, and obtaining technical support can be overwhelming for many entrepreneurs, particularly in less populated areas like central and western North Dakota.
Here’s where the Office of Entrepreneurship comes in. The office would act as a central hub to support new businesses across the state, providing the tools and resources needed to help them succeed.
Key Goals of the Office of Entrepreneurship
If the bill is passed, the Office of Entrepreneurship will be responsible for:
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Enhancing Entrepreneurial Skills and Knowledge
By collaborating with entrepreneurial stakeholders and organisations, the office will provide training and development opportunities to improve the skills of entrepreneurs. -
Providing Technical Support
The office will offer technical assistance to entrepreneurs, helping them with practical aspects of business development, from product development to financial management. -
Expanding Access to Resources
One of the main priorities is to increase access to business resources for entrepreneurs, whether it’s information on funding, partnerships, or market research. -
Point of Contact for New Businesses
The office will act as the go-to resource for new businesses in the state, guiding them through the process of working with various state and local agencies, while also referring them to relevant resources.
The bill also outlines the establishment of two full-time equivalent positions to administer the office. This ensures that the office will have the staffing necessary to fulfill its mission effectively.
How Will This Bill Impact Entrepreneurs in North Dakota?
For many entrepreneurs in North Dakota, this bill represents a much-needed lifeline. Warrey points to the Emerging Prairie model in Fargo as a success story. The model has helped build a vibrant entrepreneurial community in the Fargo-Moorhead area, and Warrey hopes to replicate this success across central and western North Dakota.
Here’s how entrepreneurs can benefit from the creation of the office:
- Networking Opportunities: The office will foster a community of entrepreneurs, encouraging collaboration and innovation across the state.
- Easier Access to Resources: New businesses often struggle to find the right tools and resources, but the office will provide clear guidance on where to turn for assistance.
- Streamlined State Interaction: Navigating state agencies can be daunting, especially for new businesses. The office will act as a liaison, making it easier for entrepreneurs to connect with the right resources.
- Mentorship and Support: With the backing of organisations like Right to Start, the office will offer mentorship and advice to help businesses grow.
What’s Next for House Bill 1191?
Having passed the North Dakota House, House Bill 1191 is now headed to the North Dakota Senate. If approved by the Senate and signed by Governor Kelly Armstrong, the bill could see the Office of Entrepreneurship up and running by summer 2025.
If successful, North Dakota will join a growing list of states that have created similar offices to boost entrepreneurship. The ultimate goal is to help entrepreneurs not just survive but thrive in a competitive business environment.
The Bigger Picture: Small Businesses and Job Creation
The importance of this bill extends beyond just North Dakota entrepreneurs. At the national level, small businesses are essential drivers of job creation and economic growth. According to recent data, small businesses account for about 44% of all U.S. economic activity.
By fostering a supportive environment for entrepreneurs, North Dakota is taking a significant step toward encouraging business growth and job creation, particularly in underserved areas.
Conclusion: A Bright Future for North Dakota Entrepreneurs
The establishment of the Office of Entrepreneurship in North Dakota could prove to be a game-changer for entrepreneurs across the state. Whether you’re based in Fargo, Bismarck, or more rural areas like Minot or Williston, this office could provide the support and resources needed to turn your entrepreneurial dreams into reality.
If House Bill 1191 passes the Senate and is signed into law, North Dakota could soon see a surge in new businesses and innovations, with entrepreneurs having a dedicated resource to help them navigate the challenges of starting and growing a business.
Relevant Links for Further Reading:
- Right to Start – Expanding Entrepreneurial Opportunities
- North Dakota Department of Commerce – Entrepreneurship
- Emerging Prairie – Building an Entrepreneurial Ecosystem
- Small Business Administration – Resources for Entrepreneurs
Photo credit: InForum
