The growth and prosperity of the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo area are products of intentional and visionary leadership over a long period. Success is not merely a happenstance occurrence but a meticulous journey. Through shared vision and collective efforts, we propel our community forward, strengthen our influence and impact, and shape a bright future filled with opportunity and achievement.

Recently, a coalition of five area organizations, including The Chamber, announced a momentous achievement for the FMWF area and the state of North Dakota. The National Science Foundation (NSF) awarded this coalition, named FARMS, up to $160 million over 10 years to enhance innovation, jobs and economic growth in agriculture technology (AgTech). This award brings great honor and recognition to our community and presents a tremendous opportunity for the future of our region. This achievement is possible because of the groundbreaking collaboration between the five partnering organizations and the strong Ag Tech foundation that has opened the door for such a significant opportunity. We have an in-depth story about this award on page 8, where I encourage you to learn more about the initiative, The Chamber's role and how to engage with us as we move forward.

Vision and clear foresight are crucial for the sustained growth of our community. We are beginning the next phase of our comprehensive regional growth plan to achieve our goals in partnership with the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation. This multi-year plan, developed in collaboration with our business and community leaders, aims to address the opportunities and challenges ahead for FMWF. In the coming months, we will engage in extensive outreach to ensure we have the right strategies for success. The plan will be vetted over the next year, with implementation scheduled for 2025.

Our commitment to public policy work remains one of our greatest impact areas. As we enter the Minnesota legislative session, the leadership of our business and community members will help shape policies that drive business-friendly, pro-growth legislation. Please contact me with any questions or concerns during this legislat ive session and election season; I would be happy to have a conversation with you about the challenges or opportunities facing your business. You may have heard our announcement about this year's Voices of Vision keynote speaker and the inspiring day we have planned for our community. We are proud to welcome Chris Gardner, whose life story you may know from the film "The Pursuit of Happyness," starring Will Smith. Gardner's life is marked by resilience, determination and transformative decision-making. I cannot think of a better individual to welcome to our community to inspire our people and give us "Permission To Dream."

All the topics and initiatives I have mentioned play an integral role in The Chamber's ability to successfully execute its mission to be a cat alyst for growth and prosperity, all while standing committed to our core values.