News Releases for February 2004
February 6, 2004
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Hoeven to Promote Technology Development at Tech Expo
Governor Proclaims February 12 North Dakota Technology Day
BISMARCK, N.D. - Gov. John Hoeven today said that technology development in North Dakota is key to building a brighter, more prosperous future for our state. To stress its importance, Hoeven has proclaimed February 12, 2004, North Dakota Technology Day to coincide with this year's North Dakota Tech Expo at the State Fair Center in Minot. Hoeven will give the opening remarks at 10 a.m. in Heritage Hall.
"Technology is transforming the way we live, work, learn and conduct business in North Dakota," Hoeven said. "This is true within education and government, and especially within the state's business community, where small storefronts and large corporations alike have unprecedented access to the global marketplace. Technology will drive the jobs of the future."
Hoeven has identified technology as one of five targeted industry sectors for growth in North Dakota. To fully benefit from new and emerging technologies, he has proposed making North Dakota a haven for high-tech companies. He has proposed a $50 million Centers of Excellence initiative to drive development in technology, as well as in value-added agriculture, energy, advanced manufacturing and tourism. The Governor said his goal is to create the very best business climate possible for technology firms so that the state can develop and attract the good paying jobs they provide.
"We must evaluate how we tax new high-tech companies and provide tax credits for investment in technology," Hoeven said. "These tax credits combined with North Dakota's highly educated workforce and healthy business climate will make our state a major player in the high-tech world."
The North Dakota Tech Expo is sponsored by Governor John Hoeven and the Minot Area Chamber of Commerce.
EDITOR'S NOTE: Gov. Hoeven's remarks during the opening ceremony of the Tech Expo will be webcast live over the Internet at www.governor.nd.gov beginning at 10 a.m. CT.
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