GNDC Members Engage Directly with Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis

The Greater North Dakota Chamber convened an invitation-only Federal Reserve Economic Roundtable in Bismarck, bringing together senior business leaders from across the state for a focused, candid discussion on economic conditions and outlook. Hosted at Bravera Bank, the setting reinforced the purpose: serious dialogue among decision-makers shaping North Dakota’s economy.

The conversation was facilitated by Erick Garcia Luna, Regional Outreach Director with the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, and included a brief economic update followed by guided discussion. Insights shared by participants will inform regional and national economic analysis and be elevated to Federal Reserve President Neel Kashkari as part of ongoing monetary policy deliberations.

CONVERSATION THEMES:

• Optimism with discipline: 2025 performance was solid, but uncertainty is slowing decisions
• Capital on pause: Investment timing influenced by interest rates and regulatory clarity
• Workforce reality: Talent availability remains the primary constraint to growth
• Productivity imperative: Automation and AI are no longer optional
• Resilient core: Energy, agriculture, and infrastructure continue to anchor North Dakota

As one participant summarized the collective mindset: “I want your business to succeed because that success ensures our vitality.”

GNDC President and CEO Arik Spencer emphasized the importance of the exchange: “The business community showed up. Leaders from across industries and regions engaged in a meaningful conversation about our economic future. While uncertainty was evident, optimism—tempered with realism—was clear.”

The Federal Reserve underscored the value of direct business insight. “Our analysis is strongest when it is grounded in real decisions being made by employers and investors,” said Garcia Luna. “Hearing directly from North Dakota business leaders provides critical context that data alone cannot capture and strengthens how we assess economic conditions across the region.”

GNDC thanks Bravera Bank for hosting this important conversation and the Cornerstone Members who contributed their perspective. This is how economic policy is informed—by those building, investing, and leading on the ground in North Dakota.