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12/01/98
Committee explores possible NDSU technology park
Fargo, N.D., Dec. 1—A committee has begun preliminary work to determine if a technology park may be in North Dakota State University's future. Representatives of NDSU, Northern States Power Co., the city of Fargo and Fargo Cass County Economic Development Corporation will research the possibility during the next six to 12 months.
"We would try to create an incubator for research," said Dick Rayl, vice president for business and finance. "Small or medium-sized companies may not have a large research component. They could locate in the incubator and partner with some of our faculty or departments and they could hire graduate students to assist with their research. This would be a benefit to the university, its employees and the state."
Otto Helweg, dean of the College of Engineering and Architecture, represents NDSU on the committee. He has contacted faculty, asking for names of companies that may be interested in becoming partners in a technology park.
Rayl stressed the committee is in the initial stages of its work. "First of all, we need to find out if there is an interest in private industry. All we're doing is gathering information to see if it is feasible or not," he said. "It's exciting to look for partners to bring NDSU closer to industry. A technology park is a way to develop stronger ties. It could enhance private industry research, and, perhaps, our research as well."
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