February 2005

Dear Stakeholders,

The NDSU Research and Technology Park is planning for a busy year in 2005. Two construction projects will begin this spring, Alien Technology's manufacturing/research facility and the NDSU Candlewood Suites Hotel. The research park is gaining recognition as an entity that contributes greatly to North Dakota's economic growth through public/private partnership. We appreciate your support of our mission.

When I was named the park's first executive director in January 2002, I projected that eight to 10 organizations would be operating in the park by 2005. I am pleased to announce that in three short years we have achieved that goal. As of this month, 10 organizations are operating or committed to operating in the research park. Those organizations include:

• North Dakota State University
• Alien Technology
• Phoenix International
• Appareo Systems
• Feed Management Systems
• Pedigree Technologies
• NDSU Candlewood Suites
• DataTic Technologies
• Red River Basin Institute

We continue to make progress on fund-raising for our 50,000-square-foot technology incubator. The facility is to be built in two phases, with a project goal of $6.9 million. We have approximately $3.7 million committed to the project and a $1.75 million grant application is pending with the U.S. Department of Commerce. Our hope is to secure that federal grant and begin phase one construction this year.

To assist with our entrepreneurial efforts, Mick Hammerstrom accepted a temporary part time position with the park in January. Mick is involved in many community activities and recently was with Alerus Financial. We are glad to have Mick contributing his ideas and expertise to the park.

The future remains bright as interest in the research park continues to grow. Please let us know how we can assist you through partnerships with NDSU and/or by assisting in the creation of your new technology business.

Tony Grindberg
Executive Director
tony@ndsuresearchpark.com