Future Forum: The Business Case for Strong Communities

EVENT LINK

Strong communities don’t happen separate from business success—they grow because of it. As companies expand, create jobs, and invest in their workforce, they also shape the places where people live, work, and build roots. Strong businesses create opportunity—not only through economic growth, but through employees who are able to give back, engage locally, and invest in the communities they call home.

This Future Forum discussion explores how businesses are approaching community investment more strategically—from philanthropy and sponsorships to workforce, housing, and quality-of-place initiatives. Panelists will discuss why companies choose to invest where they operate, how those investments strengthen community identity and quality of place, and why thriving communities are increasingly tied to workforce attraction, retention, and long-term competitiveness.

THE PANEL FEATURES:

• Moderator Melissa Beach, Economic Development Administrator, Minnkota Power Cooperative and President, Economic Development Association of North Dakota — bringing experience in regional growth, infrastructure investment, and community development
• Tara Bujold, Director of Executive Operations, Dakota Medical Foundation — helping lead strategy and engagement efforts behind Giving Hearts Day and regional philanthropic initiatives
• Erin Dickson, Brand Engagement Manager, Northern Plains Rail Services — connecting business growth with meaningful community partnerships and workforce investment
• Kim Lawler, Manager of Giving & Social Impact, Marvin — leading enterprise-wide philanthropy, employee engagement, and community investment strategies across Marvin locations

The conversation will highlight how community investment has evolved from charitable giving into a long-term strategy tied directly to economic resilience, workforce strength, and the future of North Dakota communities.
ALSO ON THE AGENDA:

• Higher education and the workforce pipeline
• AI in business operations
• Population growth and innovation
• CEO fireside chat on leadership and growth

DETAILS
DATE: June 10 
LOCATION: Grand Forks - located at Premier Sponsor Minnkota Power Cooperative, Hybrid
TIME: 8:30 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.
Full agenda and session description with bios available

Register to reserve your spot.