NORTH DAKOTA (KXNET) — Governor Kelly Armstrong has declared today, March 19, Small Business Development Centers (SBDC) Day, in a move to recognize the impact they have had on small business growth throughout the state. The North Dakota SBDC joins nearly 1,000 centers across the country in cele brating the eighth annual SBDC Day. The center, which is an outreach program of the University of North Dakota, has been a resource for small business owners and entrepreneurs since 1986. According to a press release from the SBDC, the center helped 1,854 entrepreneurs and small business owners in 2024 alone. This includes helping them create and retain jobs, secure essential financing, and launch new ventures. "Today, North Dakota stands with small business owners throughout the state," said the governor's proclamation, "in acknowledging the invaluable contributions of SBDCs and reaffirms its dedication to fostering and uplifting small businesses across the state. North Dakota thanks the North Dakota SBDC for its service and impact on the economic success of our state and all residents are encouraged to support small businesses in North Dakota and across the nation." City of Bismarck calls on community to pitch ideas for projects The proclamation says small businesses make up 98.9% of the state's businesses. It also says that in 2024, ND SBDC clients successfully launched 154 new small businesses, secured $90.9 million in new capital investment, and supported more than 5,500 jobs. “Our mission is to help North Dakota’s entrepreneurs thrive, and we are honored to be recognized by Governor Armstrong for the impact we make,” said ND SBDC State Director Tiffany Ford in a press release. “SBDC Day is a moment to celebrate the resilience and success of small businesses — not just in North Dakota, but across the country.” The national SBDC helps more than 300,000 small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs each year. The annual SBDC Day is an opportunity for the center to showcase its impact, highlight success stories, and provide resources to those who need them. For more information on ND SBDC programs or services, call (701)777-3700, email leadcenter@ndsbdc.org, visit https://ndsbdc.org, or reach out to them on social media (Facebook, Instagram, X, LinkedIn). Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW ...read more read less