North Dakota’s SBDC turns 40

August 12, 2026 - 04:49

North Dakota's Small Business Development Center is celebrating four decades of helping entrepreneurs get off the ground and grow. State Director Tiffany Ford says the organization's work has directly led to the creation of tens of thousands of jobs across the state over that time.

Ford reflected on the milestone, noting that the center started as a modest effort to provide guidance to local business owners. Today, it operates with a network of advisors spread across the state, offering everything from startup planning to help with securing loans and navigating regulations. The center works with both new ventures and established companies looking to expand.

The impact, Ford said, goes beyond just the number of jobs. Many of the businesses that received early support have become anchors in their communities, providing stable employment and keeping money in the local economy. She pointed to the center's role in rural areas, where a single successful business can make a significant difference for the whole town.

Looking ahead, Ford said the focus will be on adapting to changes in the economy, including helping businesses with digital tools and workforce challenges. The goal, she added, is to make sure the next 40 years are just as productive as the first, with a continued emphasis on practical, hands-on support for the people who take the risk to start something of their own.