For the past 19 years, we've been honored to host Marketplace for Entrepreneurs.  What started out as a small meeting for farmers has grown into North Dakota's largest and longest running economic development conference, drawing more than 10,000 people each year.

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.

Marketplace 2008 is focused on how new innovations in energy will restructure American agriculture and transform the economic landscape of our state.  We are exploring emerging economic opportunities in North Dakota, including innovative ways to "grow" our energy and make our nation more energy independent.

At Marketplace for Entrepreneurs 2008, 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.