Marketplace to Return to Fargo in 2007 Conrad, Johnson Plan Special Event Showcasing North Dakota Talent 05/12/06 Fargo -- Senator Kent Conrad and Agriculture Commissioner Roger Johnson announced today that Marketplace for Entrepreneurs will return to Fargo in 2007. Marketplace is North Dakota's largest and longest-running economic development conference. "The Fargo community was such a gracious host and helped make this year's Marketplace a tremendous success. We are very excited to be invited back and plans are in the works to make Marketplace 2007 the biggest and best yet," said Senator Conrad. Fargo Mayor Bruce Furness and West Fargo Mayor Rich Mattern presented Conrad and Johnson with a ceremonial invitation officially inviting Marketplace to the city on January 17, 2007. Standing inside the historic Fargo Theater, Senator Conrad and Commissioner Johnson said that Marketplace 2007 will include a special event showcasing musically talented North Dakotans in hopes of serving as their springboard for success in the arts. "North Dakota has a growing number of entertainers who have the potential to turn their talent into successful careers," Senator Conrad and Commissioner Johnson said. "We want to feature them at the 2007 Marketplace for Entrepreneurs." In January, more than 10,000 people turned out at the Fargodome for Marketplace for Entrepreneurs. The annual economic development summit drew visitors from across North Dakota and the region with the opportunity to view more than 300 exhibits of innovative products and services and participate in hundreds of different workshops. "What began as an informational meeting for several hundred farmers and ranchers now helps thousands of budding entrepreneurs pursue dreams of business success," Commissioner Johnson said. "Marketplace retains a strong agricultural component, but it is now geared to offer ideas, resources and information to anyone who wants to be a player in North Dakota's economic future." Marketplace brings together aspiring entrepreneurs, venture capitalists, corporations, universities, foundations and community and business leaders to exchange ideas, discuss the latest innovations and share skills and technology. Often described as "a supermarket of ideas" Marketplace gives participants the tools, advice and support they need to explore business opportunities in North Dakota. "Marketplace has grown significantly since it began more than 17 years ago. It has become a major economic development force that taps into the entrepreneurial spirit that thrives in North Dakota and puts it to work," Senator Conrad said. "That is what Marketplace is all about — growing North Dakota from within," Johnson said.