The world’s economic landscape has been rippling with persistent aftershocks of a major quake in its financial markets. The fissures in the stock, bond and credit markets have swallowed up the weak, vulnerable and over extended. Things financial are in disarray.

Except, that is, in North Dakota, and a few other energy exporting bright spots.

Financial institutions in the state, because of a basic conservative inclination, are steady. Collapse, so far, has only been for those in other states. And collapse is something we wish on no one. But North Dakota will not be able to avoid all the ripple effects. Already Bobcat has said it will shutdown operations in Gwinner and Bismarck from Dec. 15 to Feb. 15, because its customers can’t get credit. We are connected and interconnected in so many ways with the rest of the globe. In order for farmers in North Dakota to export their commodities, there must be people with the cash or credit to buy them.

The efforts made in recent years to diversify the state economy may do much to help the people of North Dakota as the globe recovers economic stability. Part of that effort has been aided by North Dakotans who have been willing to invest capital in startup businesses in the state.

In this issue of Business Watch, writer Lelan Bosch takes a look at some of North Dakota’s successful venture capital operations, including high tech possibilities, medical technologies and value added agricultural products.

We also look at some of the spinoff from increased oil industry activity in the Williston Basin. And contemplating needs in the face of an economic downturn, Business Watch’s Debora Dragseth reports and writes about charities and giving. After all, businesses are a major source of funding for the non-profit work done in our communities. This is certainly appropriate given we are entering the holiday season.

Readers also will find a story about how the community of Rugby has faced the challenges of maintaining a vigorous community on the prairie. Enough said, please read.

Ken Rogers
701-250-8250
ken.rogers@bismarcktribune.com