North Dakota is Right on Track

The news of North Dakota’s growing population is just another indicator of the success the state is experiencing in work force and economic development. It is a pleasure to note that the growth is statewide and that a majority of the growth is made up of younger workers who are either returning home to North Dakota or coming to the state to pursue some of the many opportunities we have to offer.

The news, however, shouldn’t be surprising considering the number of studies that have placed North Dakota cities or the entire state in its top rankings of places to do business or live. Under Gov. John Hoeven’s leadership these last seven years, North Dakota has fostered a productive climate for businesses that has attracted a number of high-profile companies like Micro-soft and has helped our own homegrown businesses flourish. This business-friendly environment will only help bring in more lucrative career and job opportunities to the state. And, of course, with the high paying jobs, we’ll also be able to keep more of our young people stay in North Dakota to live, work and raise their families.

North Dakota’s booming economy is not the only indicator of this. A study done by the Beacon Hill Index ranks North Dakota fourth in its State Competitiveness Report, which attempts to identify the qualities that allow some areas to excel in income generation and thus compete economically, sustain a high level of per capita income and continue economic growth. The rankings are based on the state’s government and fiscal policies, security, infrastructure, human resources, technology, business incubation, openness and environmental policy. North Dakota ranks high in a majority of these categories, and in areas where there is room for improvement. Hoeven and his administration are already working hard to make North Dakota more competitive.

North Dakota has steadily risen in this report and with the continued efforts of the current administration, we can expect North Dakota to reach to top.

Dale Anderson
Fargo, N.D.