What is employee ownership, and how can it help local businesses prepare for an owner’s retirement while creating opportunities for employees? On September 30, the Minot Area Chamber EDC co-hosted the Minot Employee Ownership Celebration to explore those questions and more.

Held at the Magic City Discovery Center in partnership with Atlas Legal Services and the North Dakota Center for Employee Ownership (NDCEO), the event brought together employee-owned businesses and those curious about whether the model could work for them. Speakers included Tammy Miller, former North Dakota lieutenant governor and former CEO of Border States; Danielle Foster, ESOP attorney and Vice President of Atlas Legal Services; and Brekka Kramer, MACEDC President | CEO. Discussion explored how Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs) can help owners transition their businesses while giving employees an opportunity to build retirement wealth through an ownership stake.

The gathering offered an enjoyable setting to exchange experiences, ask questions, and make connections around a topic gaining local attention. Businesses interested in learning more are encouraged to visit the NDCEO website.