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Brekka Kramer Named 2026 Large Community Economic Developer of the Year

Posted: Oct 15 2026

Minot Area Chamber EDC (MACEDC) President | CEO Brekka Kramer has been named the 2026 Large Community Economic Developer of the Year by the Economic Development Association of North Dakota (EDND). Kramer received the award during EDND’s Fall Conference in Williston on October 7.

The award recognizes an individual whose contributions leave a lasting impact on the economic health of their community, region, or state and improve quality of life. Kramer’s nomination highlighted her leadership in advancing economic and workforce development, strengthening North Dakota’s military missions, building strategic partnerships, and positioning Minot and the region for future growth.

“Brekka sees what’s possible for Minot, and she puts in the work to help make it happen,” said Jarid Lundeen, MACEDC’s 2026 Board Chair. “She brings people together, creates opportunities, and moves projects forward that will matter to this community for generations. We’re fortunate to have her leading MACEDC, and our board and member investors are proud to congratulate her on this well-earned recognition.”

Kramer became President | CEO of MACEDC in 2022. During her four years leading the organization, MACEDC has advanced major economic development opportunities, expanded workforce development initiatives, strengthened advocacy at the local, state, and federal levels, and elevated Minot’s role in supporting national defense.

That work includes positioning the nearly 800-acre Logistics Park of North Dakota for transformational investment, strengthening access to global markets through intermodal service, advancing critical infrastructure to support future industrial development, and building partnerships to attract new investment and create opportunities throughout the region. Kramer has also been a strong advocate for Minot Air Force Base and North Dakota’s military missions, helping strengthen the relationship between the installation, community, state, and national defense leaders. Minot was spotlighted nationally as a Great American Defense Community in 2025. Kramer serves as a Civic Leader for both Air Force Global Strike Command and the U.S. Air and Space Force.

“I’m honored to receive this recognition from colleagues who are doing important work in communities across North Dakota,” Kramer said. "The progress we make in the Minot area is possible because of an incredible MACEDC team, board, member investors, and community partners who believe in what can be accomplished together. I'm grateful to work alongside people who believe in the Magic of Minot and are willing to roll up their sleeves to help our community and region grow and thrive."

Other honorees recognized at the conference included:

Small Community Economic Developer of the Year: Carie Boster, Dunn County Job Development Authority
Emerging Professional of the Year: Anna Nelson, Williston Economic Development
Economic Development Project of the Year: Applied Digital’s Polaris Forge 1 Campus, Ellendale, N.D.
Community Development Award: Walsh County Childcare Center, Grafton, N.D.

“With a continued focus on strengthening communities and creating opportunities, these leaders and projects are helping move North Dakota forward,” EDND President Melissa Beach said. “Their work demonstrates the impact strong leadership, collaboration, and innovation can have on communities across our state.”

Click here to watch the recognition video shown at the EDND Fall Conference, highlighting Kramer’s leadership and contributions to economic development.