History, Vision and Mission

Today's streamlined, action-oriented Department of Economic Development & Finance was originally created in 1957 as an Economic Development Commission which consisted of the governor (as chair) and nine members. There was one member from each of the eight planning districts in the state and one member-at-large, representing minorities. A predecessor agency, the North Dakota Research Foundation, existed from 1943-1957.

The North Dakota Department of Economic Development & Finance (ED&F;) was created in 1991 to assume the functions, powers and duties of the Economic Development Commission. Its director is appointed by, and serves at the will of, the governor.

The Mission Statement of ED&F; challenges the department "To provide strategic direction and quality products and services that stimulate and support local economic growth and diversity."

The Vision Statement calls on ED&F; "To increase the standard of living for all North Dakotans."

Our vision of increasing each North Dakotan's standard of living is achieved with successful primary-sector investments for local communities. These include the creation of new businesses within the state, the retention and expansion of existing businesses and the attraction of new businesses to North Dakota.

The Department organizes its activities through the following programs:

• Agricultural Products Utilization Commission (APUC),
• Business Development,
• International Trade,
• Research & Intelligence,
• North Dakota Development Fund (NDDF), and
• Women�s Business.

Two councils are also housed within the department.

• North Dakota Rural Development Council
• North Dakota Workforce Development Council