The initiative is aimed at bringing together universities and economic development organizations in the Red River Valley along both sides of the river. It promises to be one of the most comprehensive strategic plans the region has seen.
The idea was initiated by Bill Marcil Sr., Forum Communications, who committed $100,000. Marcil Sr. also committed to raising additional funds to support an economic development study evaluating strengths and challenges along the Red River Valley.
The group is soliciting proposals from consulting firms with extensive experience providing strategic planning services to economic development organizations. The effort will lead to the development of a comprehensive economic development plan for the Red River Valley region of North Dakota and Minnesota.
The group expects the consulting work to be completed by August 2013 resulting in a document that lays out a three to five year strategic plan.
