Tag: support

Member Spotlight: RJ Energy Solutions

Posted on March 24, 2026 by - News

RJES Team

Bella Peterson & Russell Schell

RJ Energy Solutions (RJES) was founded with a clear mission: reduce energy waste, lower cost, improve comfort, and bring practical, innovative efficiency solutions to businesses and homeowners. After several years of experience in the corporate world, founder Russell Schell, felt called back to entrepreneurship and to his passion for advancing energy-efficient technologies.

Turning Innovation into Business

In the early stages, RJ Energy Solutions focused on executing energy-efficient solutions across a variety of sectors. Russell’s technical expertise and drive to innovate laid the groundwork for a pivotal moment in 2024, when he was connected with Bella Peterson, a UND entrepreneurship student.

As a driven and growth-focused professional, Bella helped shift the business from pure innovation to structured business execution. What had been primarily about inventing and refining solutions became a focused effort to bring those solutions to market in a scalable way. Together, Russell and Bella have built a partnership that they describe as a great crossover to execute great solutions.

Russell Schell & Bella Peterson

Solving Energy Waste with Purpose

RJES was created to address one core problem: energy waste and inefficiency. From commercial facilities to residential properties, the company works to identify where systems are underperforming and how to improve them in practical, cost-effective ways.

RJES continues to evolve, leading to the launch of a new venture, Dart Solutions. Dart Solutions is focused on providing predictive maintenance to cut down on energy waste and maintenance dollars.

Business offices represent eco-conscious and sustainable practices.

Maximizing Growth & Expansion

Growth for RJES has come through intentional development. Some of the key milestones thus far include expanding the team, investing in product and solution development, and conducting deep market research to find a niche and innovative approach to where there was a need in the market.

RJES has focused on building a strong foundation, leading to the development of an ecosystem of partnerships, refining approach, and ensuring each step taken is strategic. The launch of Dart Solutions is a great example of the thoughtful growth that takes place.

A hand holding lightbulb symbolizes sustainability and energy-efficiency.

CFI’s Impact: Strengthening the Ecosystem

Joining the UND Center For Innovation was a strategic decision for RJ Energy Solutions. The primary goal was to become more integrated with the entrepreneurial ecosystem while contributing to strong business execution.

The Center for Innovation has played an essential role in business development for RJES’s particularly by connecting the team to NSF I-Corps Hub Great Plains for in-depth market research. I-Corps also helped RJES validate assumptions, refine target markets, and strengthen the company’s value. In addition, CFI supported business planning, pitch practice and development.

Business meeting discussing sustainability and lowering environmental footprint.

Looking Ahead

As RJ Energy Solutions looks to the future, its goals are ambitious yet focused. The long-term vision is to expand across the country, delivering energy efficiency solutions to a broader market.

Through continued innovation, strategic partnerships, and disciplined execution, RJES aims to scale its impact while staying true to its purpose of helping homeowners and businesses operate more efficiently, sustainably, and cost-effectively.

Learn More

To learn more about RJ Energy Solutions, visit rjenergysolutions.com and connect with the RJES team.

Member Spotlight: Sharp Biomedical

Posted on February 24, 2026 by - News

Dan Newman

Founded in 2024, Sharp Biomedical is redefining minimally invasive pain care with expertly redesigned solutions built specifically for interventional pain specialists. Founded by Dan Newman, a doctoral student in UND’s Biomedical Engineering Department, the company is driven by innovation at the intersection of engineering and patient-centered care. 

About Sharp Biomedical

Sharp Biomedical focuses on addressing the unmet needs of individuals living with chronic pain by developing an innovative, minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. The company aims to support specialists in delivering effective pain relief while reducing the need for more invasive surgical interventions.  

While Sharp Biomedical’s current primary focus is on advancing product development, the company intends to shift toward building strong relationships with UND and other local institutions in the future.  

Dan Newman holding prototype
Dan Newman holding prototype. Photo by Mark Maliskey of Mark Maliskey Photography, Grand Forks.

Turning Ideas into Impact

Sharp Biomedical translated an identified gap in interventional pain care into a focused solution designed to meet specialist and patient needs. Since identifying the need, Sharp Biomedical has moved to validate the concept through development milestones and strategic team growth.  

The company has attracted expertise, respected physicians and a high-impact spine CEO, highlighting the credibility of Sharp Biomedical, along with the company’s long-term potential.  

CFI’s Impact

The Runway Accelerator program at UND’s Center for Innovation (CFI) is a two-phase program designed to provide mentorship, start-up training, and access to funding to support UND student ventures.  

Following an introduction from Dr. Kouhyar Tavakolian, Sharp Biomedical connected with the UND Center for Innovation and enrolled in the Runway Accelerator program. “The timing proved to be perfect for the stage Sharp Biomedical was in,” Newman shared. Through Runway, the team received critical support—most notably guidance through the customer discovery process, which helped refine and strengthen their core concept. 

After completing the Runway Accelerator program at CFI, Newman continued building momentum by joining the gBeta program in Grand Forks. Designed for high-potential startups with local roots, gBeta is a pre-accelerator that provides intensive one-on-one mentorship, focused growth strategy, and preparation for raising capital. The program also connects founders to a powerful network of mentors, investors, and prospective customers. 

With strategic support from Runway and initial grant funding, Sharp Biomedical strengthened its foundation and positioned itself for rapid growth. Through a recommendation and introduction to gBeta, CFI helped further expand Sharp Biomedical’s network—“providing additional connections and accelerating the company’s growth,” Newman shared. The continued progression through these programs played a key role in securing additional investment and increasing the company’s valuation. 

Newman presenting at the LAUNCH: Demo Day event at the UND Memorial Union.
Newman presenting at the LAUNCH: Demo Day event at the UND Memorial Union. Photo by Mark Maliskey of Mark Maliskey Photography, Grand Forks.

Looking Ahead

Funding is a top priority for Sharp Biomedical, supporting ongoing product development, testing, and efforts to bring the technology to market. At the same time, the team is preparing to file a non-provisional patent to protect its intellectual property.  

They are also refining the device through cadaver testing with physician partners, ensuring it performs effectively across the variety of anatomies found in real-world patients. 

Learn More

To learn more about Sharp Biomedical and their mission to make interventional procedures more accessible, visit sharpbiomedical.com.  

What Legos Can Teach Us About the Importance of Process Documentation

Posted on February 19, 2026 by - News

By Adrian Luevano

We all want consistent results, whether we’re building Legos or completing tasks at work. The problem is that when processes aren’t documented (or we don’t have clear instructions) everyone interprets things differently; consistency is lost, and efforts are often duplicated and consequences can be significant: wasted time, frustration, and results that don’t meet expectations. 

Alt text: Colorful pile of green LEGO bricks
Colorful pile of green LEGO bricks 

A Simple Classroom Exercise with a Big Lesson

I remember an interesting exercise from a class. Our professor divided us into two teams and gave us a variety of Lego pieces, simply saying, “Build a house.” We could make any house we wanted, there were no restrictions. Once we finished, he asked us to write instructions so someone else could replicate our house, and to take a photo before disassembling it. At first, it seemed like a very simple task, build a house and write down how we built it. 

The next step was to exchange instructions and try to follow them as accurately as possible. When we compared the final result to the photo, we couldn’t stop laughing… it looked nothing like what we had intended to build! Some walls were upside down, colors didn’t match, pieces were missing and towers ended up on the wrong side.  

The lesson was clear; we wrote the instructions thinking about ourselves and didn’t consider that others might not interpret them the same way. We assumed that what was obvious to us would be obvious to everyone else, but it wasn’t. 

Business process management and automation concept with person moving wooden pieces on flowchart diagram.
Business process management and automation concept with person moving wooden pieces on flowchart diagram.

How This Shows Up in the Workplace 

The same principle applies in the workplace: clear processes allow us to replicate successful outcomes. Without them, team members may approach the same task in completely different ways, causing confusion, mistakes, and duplicated efforts. Even a small miscommunication can escalate when multiple people are involved or when the same task is repeated over time. Documenting processes doesn’t just make life easier—it makes teams more efficient and reliable. 

Writing manuals isn’t just about listing steps; we need to consider how someone else might interpret them and strive to be as clear as possible. The goal is for the process to be followed by different people in the same way, without having to provide additional explanations each time. Think of it as creating your own Lego instruction booklet: if it’s well-designed, anyone can achieve the intended result, even if they have never built that model before. 

AI-generated image of the Center for Innovation made of Legos

AI-generated image of the Center for Innovation made of Legos

Why Well-Designed Processes Matter 

Personally, my favorite Legos are the pre-designed sets; they come with all the pieces and instructions needed to build the figure on the box. I love them because simply following the instructions gives me the expected result every time. 

Processes are like Lego instructions: they allow anyone to replicate successful outcomes. That’s why having well-documented processes in place is essential to maintain consistency and efficiency. It might take extra time upfront, but it saves countless hours of frustration, reduces errors, and ensures that the results are exactly what we intended. Plus, well-documented processes can serve as a training tool for new team members, a reference for future projects, and a safeguard against forgetting important steps.

AI-Generated image of Adrian Luevano

AI-Generated image of Adrian Luevano

The Final Takeaway

Investing time in properly documenting processes ensures that the final result is exactly what we expect. So now you know, document your processes, or risk ending up like me, staring at a pile of Legos, wondering what went wrong!!

Clear processes don’t happen by accident—they’re designed. If you’re interested in improving documentation, efficiency, or team alignment, email info@innovators.net to learn how the Center for Innovation can help.

InternGF: A powerful tool for workforce retention

Posted on January 22, 2026 by - News

UND students who intern with InternGF stay in Grand Forks at remarkably high rates, speakers noted at the program’s recent 2026 launch

Sona Lesmeister (left), UND Center for Innovation’s Startup Specialist, and Kinley Anderson, the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corp.’s workforce development specialist, welcome guests to the InternGF launch event on Jan. 13. The event was held at the Center for Innovation’s Idea Lab in Grand Forks. Photo by Mark Maliskey, Marketing & Communications manager, Grand Forks Region EDC.

By Haylee Bjork

On Jan. 13, UND’s Center for Innovation and the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corp. celebrated the launch of the InternGF program for the upcoming year, hosting a breakfast and presentation that showcased the program’s progress to the UND and Grand Forks community.

Local internships are doing more than filling short-term roles in Grand Forks, speakers at the event noted. They’re shaping career paths, strengthening regional employers and keeping UND talent in the region.

That message was at the center of the event’s presentation of the InternGF program, a nationally recognized funding model designed to help organizations launch new, meaningful internship opportunities while supporting student workforce development.

A funding model built for impact

The InternGF program helps employers offset the cost of hiring interns by reimbursing a portion of intern wages. Startup organizations (within seven years of launch) are eligible for up to 50% wage reimbursement, while established EDC member companies may receive 33% reimbursement.

By lowering financial barriers, the program enables organizations to create new internship roles.

Eight years of measurable results

Since its launch, the InternGF program has funded 172 internships, awarding more than $330,000 in reimbursements. Those funds have translated into nearly $750,000 in real wages paid to UND students who receive InternGF internships.

The reach of the program spans both startups and established companies:

  • 56% of funded internships supported startups
  • 60% supported EDC member companies
  • Many organizations fell into both categories, demonstrating balanced, equitable support across the region

Internships supported by the program span a wide range of disciplines, ranging from engineering and aviation to marketing, finance and creative roles, highlighting both traditional and nontraditional career pathways available locally.

Madelynn Meek, a UND student and former marketing intern for 3 Farm Daughters in Grand Forks, talks at the InternGF launch event about her internship experience. Photo by Mark Maliskey, Marketing & Communications Manager, Grand Forks Region EDC.

Strong outcomes for students

Student feedback consistently reflects the program’s impact. On a 10-point scale:

  • Students rated internships 8.5 for applying classroom learning to real-world work
  • Students rated 8.4 for growth in professional skills and confidence

Perhaps most notably, internships influence where graduates choose to live and work. Nearly half (46%) of students from the 2018–19 cohorts are still living in Grand Forks five years later, compared to just 12% of UND alumni overall during the same period.

At the two-year mark, 71% of InternGF participants remained in the region, more than triple the general alumni average.

Employer and student voices

Robbie Lunnie, assistant professor of Aviation at UND and the founder of Vertical Works, said that while strong ideas and work ethic are important, community support is often what makes the difference.

“You can have a great idea and work incredibly hard, but that’s not always enough,” he said. “Having mentors and a support system matters.

“InternGF isn’t just about funding an intern; it connects you to people who want to help you succeed,” he continued. “That support made a real difference for me as a startup founder and helps keep talented students in Grand Forks.”

Students echoed the program’s value through personal experiences. Recent graduate and Vertical Works intern, Mateo Garcia, shared how structured reflection and mentorship set his internship apart, helping him see long-term opportunities in Grand Forks that hadn’t previously been on his radar.

Madelynn Meek, a UND student and former marketing intern for the Grand Forks-based 3 Farm Daughters pasta company, described how her internship reshaped her career goals by exposing her to multiple facets of a growing business — from supply chains to retail partnerships — while giving her real responsibility and trust. “It didn’t just prepare me for the real world,” she said. “It helped me better understand where I want to go in it.”

The 2026 InternGF Launch Event took place at the Idea Lab at the Center for Innovation in Grand Forks. Photo by Mark Maliskey, Marketing & Communications Manager, Grand Forks Region EDC.

Building the future workforce

To wrap up the event, Chelsea Mellenthin, director of Career Engagement at UND’s Experiential Learning Center, highlighted key resources available to employers, including using Handshake to share internships and open positions. She emphasized the platform as a one-stop shop for connecting with and recruiting UND talent.

As InternGF continues to align funding cycles with UND and employer hiring rhythms, the goal remains clear: create meaningful internships that benefit students, employers, and the Grand Forks community alike.

By investing in local experiences, the program is proving that internships aren’t just temporary positions; they’re a powerful tool for workforce retention, business growth, and long-term regional impact.

To learn more about InternGF, visit the program’s website.

Member Spotlight: Black Ridge Construction

Posted on December 29, 2025 by - News

Black Ridge Construction Founders
Will Klinke & Casey Schumacher

Black Ridge Construction (BRC) is a construction management firm founded in 2023 by Will Klinke and Casey Schumacher. From the beginning, BRC set out to do things differently, focusing on select niche sectors while bringing renewed emphasis on open communication, transparency, and collaboration to every project. What started as a long-standing vision has quickly grown into a purpose-driven business with a strong foundation and an exciting future ahead!

Turning Experience into Intention

Black Ridge Construction officially launched in May 2023, but the idea had been taking shape long before that. After years of working in the construction industry, Will and Casey shared a common goal of building a firm rooted in their values and experience.

Starting BRC allowed them to take what they had learned and apply it intentionally, creating a company that serves clients with clarity, purpose, and trust. While the region has no shortage of construction firms, they recognized an opportunity to focus on niche markets and elevate the overall client experience.

In the early days, that meant starting smaller than the large commercial projects they were used to managing. Those first projects were instrumental. They reinforced the importance of hands-on execution, strengthened client relationships, and helped BRC grow deliberately and sustainably, earning trust one project at a time.

Architectural floor plan on a desk with a yellow hard hat, measuring tape, calculator, level, and drafting tools used for construction planning.
Top view of architectural blueprints on the worktable desk.

Building Momentum the Right Way

In a short time, BRC has reached several meaningful milestones. Taking the leap from traditional working roles into entrepreneurship was the first step. From there came hiring their first employee and then moving into their very own office with more room to expand.

Each year has brought visible progress, and the team makes a point to reflect on how far they’ve come. Growth hasn’t always been straightforward, though. One of the biggest challenges was determining when to hire additional team members, balancing the reality of wearing many hats while ensuring there was enough work to support expansion.

Through disciplined planning and a strategic approach to scaling, BRC navigated those decisions thoughtfully. At every stage, their core values have remained unchanged: open communication, transparency, and strong, long-term relationships. These principles continue to guide how they manage projects and serve clients and have become a defining part of BRC’s reputation.

CFI’s Impact: A Foundation for Early Growth

The UND Center for Innovation played a pivotal role during BRC’s early years. Will and Casey had previously worked out of the Center nearly a decade ago with another employer and stayed connected with Travis Fretheim and the CFI team over the years. When it came time to launch BRC, returning to CFI felt like a natural fit.

Being part of the Center for Innovation during those first couple of years was monumental. CFI provided a professional working environment that aligned perfectly with the needs of a small but ambitious business, along with accessible resources and a strong entrepreneurial network.

Just as valuable was the community. Working alongside other founders and startups created opportunities to share challenges, exchange ideas, and learn from others navigating similar paths. The relationships formed at CFI have become an ongoing resource, one BRC hopes to maintain for years to come.

Graduation & the Next Chapter

Graduating from CFI marks an important transition for Black Ridge Construction. Since moving into their new space, the company has already hired an additional team member with extensive construction experience, adding depth to their capabilities and momentum to their growth trajectory.

The move itself is an exciting step forward. With dedicated space for materials, tools, and equipment, BRC now has the flexibility to operate more efficiently and better serve clients. For a construction company, having room to grow physically is just as important as growing strategically.

A hand moves a chess pawn across a network-style board, symbolizing strategy and connected decision-making.

Looking Ahead

BRC understands that growth is rarely a straight line. There will be curves, changes, and moments that require adaptation. Their long-term goal is simple but meaningful: to remain a successful construction management firm in North Dakota and the broader Midwest for years to come.

By staying lean, tight-knit, and values-driven, Black Ridge Construction aims to support not only its team but also the communities they’re fortunate to work in, building projects, relationships, and trust that last.

Learn More

To learn more about Black Ridge Construction or to discuss an upcoming project, visit BrConst.com and connect with the BRC team.

De-Risking Innovation: The Power of SBIR/STTR Grants for Startups 

Posted on December 1, 2025 by - News

Written by Jeff Barta

The world is full of innovative ideas, but moving those ideas to an impactful solution is no easy task for any entrepreneur. One of the biggest hurdles innovators and start-ups face is having enough capital to support their product development efforts. That is where the SBIR/STTR program enters. The SBIR/STTR program is two federal initiatives that offer grant funding on a competitive basis to small businesses looking to move their Research and Development (R&D) into commercialization.  

Administered by the Small Business Administration, the goal of the program is not only to stimulate technological innovation, but to bring it to life and into an impactful societal use. 

A close-up photo of a computer screen displaying a webpage from an official U.S. government site. At the top of the browser window, a small American flag icon appears next to the text “An official website of the United States government.” Below it is a bright yellow banner, and further down, part of a blue section is visible featuring the National Science Foundation (NSF) logo and the text “America’s SEED FUND SBIR/STTR.
Computer screen showing the NSF America’s Seed Fund webpage with the U.S. government site header. 

SBIR: Small Business Innovation Research 

Eleven federal agencies participate in the Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) Program by listing topics specific to research and development they wish to explore and that align with the mission of their agency. Businesses are not required to collaborate with research institutions, but partnerships are allowed and encouraged.  

STTR: Small Business Technology Transfer 

The Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) Program differs slightly from SBIRs in that it requires collaboration between small businesses and a non-profit research institution, such as a university. It focuses on technology transfer and commercialization through the collaboration of those partners. Only five federal agencies participate in the STTR program: Department of War (DOW), Department of Energy (DOE), Department of Health & Human Services (HHS), National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA), and the National Science Foundation (NSF). 

America’s Seed Fund 

Labeled as “America’s Seed Fund”, SBIR/STTR is a three-phased process that moves research from concept to commercialization. Applications to the program are scored and awarded based on two things: scientific merit and the potential for commercialization. Winning an award can be a giant step forward for small businesses and academic researchers, as investors and industry partners look favorably on this process because of its progressive de-risking nature.  

Stacks of coins with growing plants on top, symbolizing financial growth. 

Typical Funding Ranges 

Phase I: Provides the smallest award for funding. The goal of Phase I is to establish feasibility, scientific and technical merit, and proof of concept. The length of the award is approximately 6-12 months. 

Phase II: Provides significantly larger awards intended to support continued R&D and creation of prototypes. The length of the award is up to 2 years. 

Phase III: No funds provided by either SBIR or STTR, and companies are expected to continue their commercialization efforts either through private investment or follow-on federal contracts.  

Range of SBIR/STTR Funding Awards by Phase 
Program Phase I Phase II Phase III 
 SBIR ~ $50,000 – $300,000 (depending on agency) $400,000 – $1,800,000 (depending on agency) No direct funding. Focus is on commercialization through private or non-SBIR federal contracts. 
 STTR ~ $50,000 – $300,000 (depending on agency) $400,000 – $1,800,000 (depending on agency) No direct funding.  Same as, SBIR commercialization support only. 

Benefits for Small Businesses and Researchers 

The benefits small businesses or academic researchers gain by participating in the SBIR/STTR program can be significant. They, 

  1. could receive non-dilutive capital to support early-stage R&D in the form of grants or contracts, without losing equity. This is ideal for high-risk, high-reward innovations that many investors shy away from. 
  1. gain access to federal agencies and their expertise. The ability to work directly with a federal agency allows their innovation to gain credibility and technical validation, both which are appealing to potential investors. 
  1. will retain the rights to their intellectual property. This ability to protect IP can be a critical factor for future commercialization. 

To learn more about the SBIR/STTR programs, visit https://www.innovators.net/sbir-sttr/ 

Member Spotlight: Midwest Planning, LLC

Posted on November 18, 2025 by - News

Zach Bopp, founder of Midwest Planning LLC.

When Zach Bopp founded Midwest Planning in 2019, he wasn’t simply starting a business, he was building the kind of consulting firm he wished existed throughout his career, one that combined technical strength with practical usability. After more than a decade in municipal design, master planning, and construction engineering, Zach saw a persistent gap between regulatory expectations and the practical realities of field implementation.

“I wanted to create a firm that was technically strong, but also grounded in real-world application,” he explained. “Infrastructure has to work for the people who build it and maintain it.”

Growing up in an agricultural environment shaped Zach’s values: work hard, focus on the details, and solve problems with practicality and purpose. Those principles became the foundation of Midwest Planning, LLC, a firm defined by responsiveness, clarity, and commitment from project conception to completion.

About Midwest Planning

Midwest Planning specializes in civil and environmental consulting with a focus on:

  • Municipal utility design
  • Land and site development
  • Stormwater and wastewater engineering
  • Water resources planning

Their projects span everything from parking lot layouts to hydraulic modeling, erosion control, and large-scale infrastructure planning. What makes Midwest Planning stand out is the way field experience is integrated into every phase of the design process.

“Our goal is always constructability and long-term usability,” Zach said. “Plans have to be more than compliant; they need to function.”

The firm’s modular, logic-driven design approach supports clearer communication and smoother approvals across agencies, contractors, and community partners.

Impact on the Community

From stormwater systems to wastewater treatment solutions, Midwest Planning plays a quiet but critical role in building resilient communities. Their work helps clients navigate complex regulatory environments while ensuring infrastructure is practical, maintainable, and built to last.

“Our work is meant to support communities for decades,” Zach shared. “By combining technical precision with a deep understanding of local needs, we contribute to safer, more sustainable environments for the people who live and work there.”

Two engineers working on a project and discussing together looking at blueprint paperwork.

Project Highlights

Midwest Planning has built strong regional partnerships, including work with:

These projects highlight the firm’s commitment to technical excellence and regional resilience.

Challenges and Opportunities

One ongoing industry challenge is balancing regulatory expectations with the needs of field teams, who must implement the work in real-world conditions.

“To us, that’s an opportunity,” Zach said. “We focus on bridging that gap, so documentation satisfies agencies and still makes sense to the crews on the ground.”

Connection to the Center for Innovation

Zach’s connection to the UND Center for Innovation began through a colleague who encouraged him to explore CFI’s resources and network. One conversation led to another, and before long, the relationship became a natural fit.

“CFI opened doors to collaboration and helped us connect with other entrepreneurs and innovators,” Zach shared.

Support from CFI

Through the Center for Innovation, Midwest Planning has gained visibility within the regional business community, deepened its network, and connected with resources that support long-term business development.

“CFI has given us a platform to share our story and explore new opportunities,” Zach said. “It’s been invaluable.”

Looking Ahead

Midwest Planning is focused on steady, sustainable growth, continuing to build strong client relationships while expanding regional partnerships.

“We want to grow without ever compromising the quality of our work or the trust we’ve built,” Zach emphasized.

For Midwest Planning, the path forward is rooted in responsiveness, high standards, and a commitment to serving the communities that rely on resilient infrastructure.

To learn more about Midwest Planning, reach out to Zach at Zach@mwplanning.com

Member Spotlight: Wildflowers of Hope — Growing Light from Loss

Posted on October 14, 2025 by - News

Kelly Entzel and her son Oscar at the UND Center for Innovation
Kelly Entzel, the founder of Wildflowers of Hope with her son, Oscar. Photo by Haylee Bjork

When grief blooms into purpose, beautiful things can happen. For Kelly Entzel, a UND alum and former English teacher, that purpose took root in 2024 with the creation of Wildflowers of Hope, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting all individuals and families in the Red River Valley experiencing pregnancy and infant loss.

Kelly’s story began years earlier. Originally from Fosston, Minnesota, she came to UND in 2009 to pursue her degree in education, a decision that led not only to her career of 13 years as a teacher but also to meeting her husband. The two married in 2013 and started building their family in Grand Forks.

Their journey, however, wasn’t without heartbreak. After two miscarriages and the devastating loss of their daughter, Collette, in October 2023 due to a rare genetic condition called Triploidy, Kelly and her family experienced profound grief.

“I knew our family wasn’t complete, but I also knew that grief is isolating,” Kelly shared. “Unless you’ve been through it, it’s hard to understand. I wanted to create a space where families could find hope, community, and healing.”


On Collette’s half-birthday, April 18, 2024, Kelly and her sister Emma Preston, began dreaming up a way to support others in their grief journey. As plans for their nonprofit began to sprout, Kelly asked her friend Sarah Anderson, to come alongside them to build and launch Wildflowers of Hope, named for the resilience and renewal that wildflowers symbolize, was officially established in October 2024. “Every spring, new life and new hope come back. Flowers bring joy and the promise of something better,” Kelly said.

At home, Kelly’s life is filled with energy and love. She’s the proud mom of four energetic kids who keep her days bright and busy.

Kelly and Sarah Anderson at CFI’s Grill & Gather event, Photo by Alex Johnson

Building Community Through Compassion

As a member of UND’s Center for Innovation, Kelly found both practical and personal support to grow her nonprofit idea into reality. Through CFI, Wildflowers of Hope gained workspace and printing access, as well as valuable connections to community partners — including The Sunshine House, where the group now holds its monthly meetings.

“The Center for Innovation gave us a home base when we were just getting started,” Kelly said. “Having access to resources, a space to work, and people who believed in our mission made all the difference.”

Wildflowers of Hope offers monthly support groups for families navigating pregnancy and infant loss, hosted at the Sunshine House in Grand Forks. Kelly explained that choosing a neutral, comforting space was important. “After loss, the last place you want to be is a hospital or funeral home. The Sunshine House has been a beautiful place for people to come, breathe, and share.”

Local businesses have also rallied around the organization, with All Seasons Garden Center donating wildflower seed packets, and The Wired Bean and Bernie’s providing coffee and pastries for meetings. “It’s been amazing to see the community come together to support something so personal,” Kelly said.

Each month, Wildflowers of Hope also sends remembrance cards and wildflower seeds to families across the region. Their newsletter and online store, featuring beautifully designed flower cards by co-founder Sarah Anderson, help spread awareness and raise funds for their outreach.

Wildflowers of Hope Flyer, Photo by Haylee Bjork.

Finding Purpose in Growth

Though it’s in its second year, Wildflowers of Hope has already touched lives throughout the Red River Valley. Kelly’s long-term vision includes expanding mental health partnerships, offering educational resources, and eventually growing into a full-scale nonprofit providing comprehensive grief and postpartum support.

“My dream is to do this full-time, to walk alongside families in their darkest times and remind them they’re not alone,” Kelly said. “Hope is necessary when you’re going through grief. Without it, it’s easy to get stuck in a dark place.”

As October marks Pregnancy and Infant Loss Awareness Month, Wildflowers of Hope will also take part in the International Wave of Light on October 15, lighting candles at 7 p.m. to honor babies gone too soon. “The idea is that a candle is lit in every time zone,” Kelly explained. “It creates a wave of light across the world as a symbol that our babies’ lives still shine.”

Get Involved

Wildflowers of Hope hosts group meetings on the third Monday of each month at 7 p.m. at the Sunshine House in Grand Forks. Individuals can get involved by:

  • Purchasing items from their online store or donating to support their mission
  • Joining their newsletter to stay connected
  • Volunteering as a local partner, sponsor, or fiber artist (to make small “lovies” for families)
  • Spreading the word about their mission

For Kelly, every wildflower planted represents a story of love, loss, and resilience. “Collette’s life gave us purpose,” she said. “Through her, something beautiful has grown.”

Learn more or support Wildflowers of Hope on their website, or follow them on Instagram or Facebook!

Member Spotlight: Vorbeck – Advanced Materials, Big Vision, and North Dakota Roots

Posted on September 25, 2025 by - News

Vorbeck team at UND's Center for Innovation
Vorbeck team at UND’s Center for Innovation, Photo by Haylee Bjork

When Tyler Sletten joined Vorbeck as the site leader for the company’s North Dakota operations, he knew he was stepping into something special. With a background as SBIR/STTR Director at the Center for Innovation and experience running his own businesses, Tyler was inspired by Vorbeck’s leadership team, Department of Defense partnerships, and potential to play a key role in North Dakota’s growing defense ecosystem.

“Vorbeck is at the right time and the right place,” Tyler said. “North Dakota—and the Red River Valley in particular—is a perfect fit for our work.”

About Vorbeck

Founded in 2006, Vorbeck has built a reputation for innovation in advanced materials for extreme environments, particularly for the Department of Defense. With more than 100 patents, much of their work is centered on printed electronics and graphene-based technologies.

Vorbeck's new facility in Grand Forks
Vorbeck’s new facility in Grand Forks, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Why North Dakota?

Vorbeck’s journey to Grand Forks began when Chairman William “Bill” Kilberg connected with Governor Doug Burgum. The welcome they received on their first visit sparked multiple return trips—and ultimately the decision to establish a long-term presence here.

“It quickly became clear that North Dakota could be a place where we could plant deep roots,” Tyler shared.

Building a Team, Building a Future

Like many expansions, Vorbeck faced challenges: assembling a new team, securing facilities, and operating across two locations 1,400 miles apart. Their solution? Invest in people.

One key step was hiring Amanda Odegard, now company-wide HR Director, whose leadership helped stabilize operations and set the foundation for growth.

From there, the team grew into a powerhouse of talent:

  • Andrew Knable and Ryan Chappell – designing and building the plant
  • Morgan LaRock – first to be brought on to the team directly from UND, now leading Logistics and Supply Chain
  • Andy Lafferty – Master Electrician, pivotal to plant construction
  • Chris Vondra and Zach Edwards – skilled technicians supporting expansion

“More than the milestones, it’s the people who make this work,” Tyler said.

Group photo taken while touring the Vorbeck Facility, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Support Along the Way

Vorbeck credits a strong ecosystem of partners for helping fuel their success:

As a former CFI staff member, Tyler has a unique perspective: “CFI has been instrumental in our growth. Amy Whitney introduced me to NSF I-Corps, which reshaped how we think about customer needs. Anthony Maher’s coaching sharpened our pitches, often with the tough advice only a trusted advisor can give. And Travis Fretheim guided us through every step of our tenancy—from a single office, to larger Skalicky spaces, and eventually to our graduation into a permanent home.

I’d also like to thank Haylee Bjork, Jeff Barta, Sona Lesmeister, Amanda Voigt, and Kevin Lunke —each played a role in making the road a little smoother. Simply put, CFI has been a partner every step of the way.”

Recent Highlights

  • Moving into a new, larger facility with the support of Russell Crary and Crary Development
  • Launching internship opportunities for UND students across engineering disciplines
  • Establishing a scholarship for excellence in electrical engineering at UND’s College of Engineering & Mines
  • Developing collaborations with UND’s EERC, Aerospace, Space Studies, and CEM

“This expansion sets the stage for our next chapter,” Tyler explained. “We can now bring all production under one roof, with room to grow.”

Andrew Knable leading a tour of Vorbeck’s new facility, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Looking Ahead

Vorbeck’s near-term focus is finishing its plant buildout this fall and growing its North Dakota team from 20 to 50+ employees. Longer term, the company envisions becoming a cornerstone of advanced manufacturing in North Dakota, known for PFAS-free firefighting foams, cutting-edge graphene applications, and deep ties to UND in research and workforce development.

“In five years, we want to be at full scale—delivering mission-critical technologies for the Department of Defense and beyond, while creating jobs and opportunities right here in Grand Forks.”

Tyler Sletten giving a product demonstration, Photo by Haylee Bjork

Advice for Fellow Innovators

When asked what advice he’d give to other entrepreneurs, Tyler pointed to the wisdom of Teddy Roosevelt, paraphrasing one of his most famous ideas:

“Think boldly; dare greatly.”

Learn more about Vorbeck and their mission to pioneer advanced materials that support national defense while creating jobs and opportunities in North Dakota by following them on LinkedIn or visiting their website.