On this episode of The Chamber Link, host Abby Styf is joined by Chamber team members Katherine, Jane and Cale for our final episode of 2025 as we share what members and the community can expect from The Chamber in 2026. From new membership benefits and refreshed signature events to expanded advertising opportunities! We’re excited to highlight the changes designed to bring even more value to your business in the year ahead.

We also dive into major initiatives including the Center for Civic Engagement, Minnesota's Legislative Session, the upcoming Workforce Forum, the Good Jobs Challenge Grant AND MORE. Get a quick, insightful look at everything coming in 2026. Join us again when The Chamber Link returns in January!

In this episode of The Chamber Link, we explore how animal agriculture fuels our region’s economy, workforce and rural vitality. Host Jane Vangsness Frisch with the FMWF Chamber is joined by Amber Wood of the North Dakota Livestock Alliance and Brady Janzen of Riverview LLP for a fast-paced conversation on livestock development, dairy expansion, technology, workforce needs and the future of our region.

Together, they break down the biggest opportunities, challenges and innovations shaping the future of animal agriculture — and why this industry remains a cornerstone of growth for North Dakota and Minnesota.

In this episode, we sit down with Shirley Hughes, the newly appointed President and CEO of Visit Fargo-Moorhead, for an insightful conversation about her journey back to the FM region and her vision for the future of our growing community.After decades leading national marketing and brand development initiatives, she’s returned home with a renewed perspective and a wealth of experience. We talk about what drew her back, her career path, and the opportunities and challenges that came with relocating back to the FM community.We also dive into Fargo-Moorhead’s rapid growth and what it means for the region’s future. Shirley shares her thoughts on how tourism can drive equitable economic development across our communities, the competitive advantages that set FM apart as a destination, and the untapped markets and segments Visit Fargo-Moorhead hopes to reach.This episode is packed with forward-thinking insights on what’s ahead for the place we call home.

What happens when employees become owners? In this episode of The Chamber Link, we explore how the Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP) model is transforming businesses across the Fargo-Moorhead region.Hear from Tammy Miller, former CEO of Border States, Shane Waslaski, CEO of Vistal, and Dan Martinson, CEO of Fargo Glass & Paint Co., as they share what it takes to transition to employee ownership—and the powerful effects it’s had on engagement, culture and long-term success.From succession planning to leadership development, these leaders offer practical insights on how ownership can inspire accountability, pride and purpose at every level of an organization.

As Fargo continues to grow, the Fargo Park District is reimagining what community spaces can be. In this episode, Chamber Executive Vice President Katherine Grindberg sits down with Craig Bjur (Fargo Park District Foundation), Susan Faus (Fargo Park District) and Kali Mork (Fargo Park District) to explore the transformative projects shaping our city—like the new Fargo Sports Center and the Island Park Pool renovations. Together, they discuss how these efforts are redefining recreation, enhancing accessibility and building stronger community connections across the region.

On this episode of The Chamber Link, we’re exploring how collaboration is driving workforce solutions across our region. From customized training and upskilling opportunities at Minnesota State Community and Technical College (MState), to inclusive pathways for New Americans through Global Refuge, to family economic empowerment efforts at Lakes and Prairies Community Action Partnership (CAPLP), partnerships are creating new ways to connect people to meaningful work.

In this episode, hosted by Chamber Vice President of Workforce, Jane Vangsness Frisch, you’ll hear from Amy Hochgraber of MState, Dan Hannaher of Global Refuge and Robin Christianson of CAPLP. Together, they share how their organizations are addressing workforce challenges, expanding opportunities and strengthening the future of our regional workforce.

On this episode of The Chamber Link, we’re diving into Minnesota’s new Paid Family and Medical Leave (PFML) program, set to launch Jan. 1, 2026. This legislation will bring big changes for businesses and organizations in our region, with preparation and compliance being essential.The Chamber has been closely tracking PFML from the start, engaging with policymakers and providing resources to help our members navigate what’s ahead.In this episode, you’ll hear from Dr. Brandon Lunak of Moorhead Area Public Schools, Shelley Cummings of Cash-Wa Distributing, and Matt Gilbertson of Downtown Health and Wellness. Together, we unpack what PFML means for employers, employees and the community, and how businesses can get ready for the changes ahead.

Dr. Brooke Thiel, NDSU; Carmel Miller, NDSU Extension; Chandler Gramm, Next Gen AgThis episode dives into the future of the agtech workforce, a critical topic for the Fargo-Moorhead region and beyond. The conversation explores how technology is reshaping agriculture, the workforce skills needed today and tomorrow, and the role of education, research and partnerships in preparing the next generation.

From workforce shortages and rural revitalization to career exposure for young people, technology adoption, and the groundbreaking NSF AgTech Engine, the discussion highlights how collaboration and innovation are driving agriculture forward. Listeners will gain a clearer picture of both the challenges and the opportunities that lie ahead, and how our region is stepping up to lead.