The Role of the ND SBDC Advisory Board in Fueling Small Business Growth
Supporting small businesses in North Dakota takes more than just a solid program or adequate resources—it requires insight, experience, and dedicated leaders who truly understand the everyday challenges these businesses face. The North Dakota Small Business Development Center (ND SBDC) recognizes this necessity through its State Advisory Board, which plays a pivotal role in guiding the organization’s direction and amplifying its impact across the state.
The primary purpose of the ND SBDC Advisory Board is to provide strategic guidance, support, and advocacy aimed at fortifying small businesses. Board members come from varied backgrounds, including successful entrepreneurs, economic developers, and lenders, allowing them to offer real-world insights on the challenges and opportunities impacting small businesses.
Meet the Visionaries Behind the ND SBDC Advisory Board
The ND SBDC 2026 Advisory Board includes a diverse group of professionals committed to the success of North Dakota's businesses:
- Adrienne Olson: As the Community and Economic Development Director for the City of Casselton, Adrienne is dedicated to fostering business growth. Her strong background in communications and marketing aids her mission to strengthen the local economy.
- Shannon Duerr: Serving as the Executive Director of the Cavalier County Job Development Authority since 2007, Shannon champions equal access to small business services, especially for rural communities.
- Chris Moen: A Financial Advisor at Alerus, Chris specializes in holistic financial planning for small business owners and remains an active supporter of the entrepreneurial ecosystem he serves.
- Missy Feist-Erickson: Vice President at Peoples State Bank of Velva, Missy emphasizes the vital role small businesses play in the economy and works to ensure they receive essential support.
- Cherie Harms: As President and CEO of Leonardite Products, Cherie brings valuable industry experience and customer insight, having benefited from ND SBDC’s services as a long-term client.
Connecting with the Local Business Community
The strength of the ND SBDC Advisory Board lies in its synergy with local business interests. The board members work closely with key partner organizations such as the Greater North Dakota Chamber, the Economic Development Association of North Dakota, and various educational institutions. This collaboration ensures that the voice of small business owners is represented in policy-making and that services provided align with the evolving needs of the business community.
The Impact of the ND SBDC: A Closer Look
Through the efforts of its advisory board, the ND SBDC achieved remarkable milestones in 2025. Over 1645 individual clients received tailored advice, leading to capital formation exceeding $144 million and the creation or support of nearly 5919 jobs across the state. Almost all clients rated the services as valuable or extremely valuable. These achievements not only highlight the significant contributions of its advisory members but also the overall effectiveness of the ND SBDC in empowering small businesses.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Small Business Support in North Dakota
The future is bright for small businesses in North Dakota, thanks to the ongoing commitment from the ND SBDC Advisory Board and its partners. As they continue to adapt to the changing business landscape and address emerging challenges, the voice and needs of small business owners will remain at the forefront of their mission. The board's diverse experiences and insights ensure that North Dakota’s small business community is well-supported and poised for future success.
For anyone passionate about small business success, knowing the key players and their dedication offers hope and encouragement. If you encounter any of these individuals, be sure to acknowledge their service to North Dakota’s small business landscape.
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