While Marketplace has grown by leaps and bounds, its mission remains the same-- to increase economic opportunities for all North Dakotans. There is great opportunity right now in North Dakota's energy and agriculture sectors. Renewable fuels, like ethanol, biodiesel and biomass, are crucial elements to our nation's energy future, and these fuels can and are being produced right here by our own farmers. Because our state is already an important provider of energy from wind, coal, oil and gas, North Dakota has the potential to be the center of a new energy economy.

At Marketplace for Entrepreneurs 2009, we are more optimistic than ever about the opportunities to develop our state's economy, create jobs and raise our standard of living. Tying energy to agriculture is a recipe for success, one that is sure to strengthen our farms, our rural communities and our nation.