In 2026, the North Dakota Small Business Development Centers will mark 40 years of no-cost advising, training and partnering with North Dakota small business owners and entrepreneurs. This anniversary offers a moment to look back at steady progress and forward to the work still ahead. Since its founding in 1986, ND SBDC has helped business owners in every region of the state start, grow and transition businesses that keep their communities strong.
A legacy of growth and partnership
The original grant application to bring the SBDC program to North Dakota was written by Nistler College of Business & Public Administration Dean Emeritus Dennis Elbert. Today, ND SBDC is hosted by the University of North Dakota through the Center for Business Engagement & Development within the Nistler College. As part of the America’s SBDC network, ND SBDC connects local businesses to national expertise, practical tools and trusted advisors at no cost to the business owner.
Over the past 20 years alone, ND SBDC has assisted and trained more than 22,000 clients, supported more than 2,200 business launches and helped generate $1.43 billion in capital formation across the state.
Evolving to meet North Dakota’s needs
For 40 years, ND SBDC has evolved alongside North Dakota’s economy, expanding and refining its services to meet the changing needs of business owners and communities. What began with a focus on business planning and financing has grown into comprehensive support that includes digital marketing, cybersecurity, exporting and succession planning. Most recently, ND SBDC advisors are integrating artificial intelligence tools and training into their own operations and client services to improve efficiency and competitiveness.
Mary Beth Votava, assistant state director – Programs & Development, has been part of ND SBDC for more than 25 years and has seen firsthand how the program evolves with the needs of North Dakota’s small business owners.
“The most rewarding part of this work is watching small business owners turn uncertainty into confidence,” Votava said. “We have walked alongside people as they took a chance on an idea, faced challenges and celebrated successes. Seeing those businesses grow, create jobs, and give back to their communities is what makes this work so meaningful.”
Impact through connection and continuity
Through strong partnerships with lenders, local development organizations and state and federal programs, ND SBDC helps business owners access capital, strengthen proposals and use financial data to make informed, confident decisions. Its advisors meet clients where they are, whether on main streets, in industrial parks or within tribal and rural communities, connecting them to the right programs and expertise to achieve their goals. ND SBDC also supports business transitions and succession planning that keep jobs, ownership and essential services within North Dakota communities.
Tiffany Ford, ND SBDC state director, said the 40th anniversary marks both reflection and renewal.
“For four decades, ND SBDC has been a trusted partner for small business owners and communities across North Dakota,” Ford said. “This milestone reminds us how important it is to keep learning, adapting and supporting the people who drive our state’s economy. Our focus is to inspire small businesses to dream boldly, innovate fearlessly and thrive for generations to come.”
Looking ahead
The ND SBDC team is leaning into artificial intelligence to strengthen both internal efficiency and client advising. Advisors are exploring practical ways to use AI in areas such as marketing automation, research and operational support to improve service delivery and share relevant tools with small business owners. The organization is also collaborating with their host, the University of North Dakota, on class projects and providing student employment opportunities within its department, giving students experience in marketing, finance and AI project development. These partnerships connect classroom learning with applied business support and help prepare the next generation of professionals who will serve North Dakota’s growing business community.
ND SBDC will share details throughout 2026 on ways to celebrate the 40th anniversary milestone, including opportunities to reconnect with past clients, spotlight long-term business success stories and engage community partners in recognizing the statewide impact of small business development.
About the ND SBDC
The ND SBDC is a statewide outreach program of the Center for Business Engagement & Development within the Nistler College of Business & Public Administration at the University of North Dakota. The network offers confidential, no-cost business advising and training to help small businesses overcome challenges, scale operations and navigate financial and regulatory landscapes.
ND SBDC services are provided at no cost to clients, thanks to funding from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the Bank of North Dakota and local supporters across the state. The North Dakota SBDC program is funded by a $777,777 grant from the SBA, which is matched by an equal amount of non-federal funds.
For more information on ND SBDC programs or services, call 701.777.3700, email leadcenter@ndsbdc.org, visit ndsbdc.org, or connect with us on social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn).
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