Fargo is known for its pro-business environment. The Fargo economy is powered by education, healthcare, food processing and agricultural equipment manufacturing. Agriculture is also a significant element of the economy. The city is also a major retail hub for the entire Upper Plains. In addition, software companies, including Microsoft have facilities in Fargo.
Case I H, a producer of heavy-duty tractors is the city's top manufacturing company. Jobs are also provided by companies producing items such as concrete, food, jewelry, dairy and meat products, and neon signs.
Some of the notable local companies are BBI International, a prominent biofuels company, Alien Technology, an RFID manufacturer, CNH Global, manufactures agricultural equipment, Cass-Clay Creamery, local creamery, Global Electric Motorcars, manufacturers neighborhood electric vehicles, Hornbachers, local chain of supermarkets and Forum Communications, owns newspapers and television and radio stations.
Fargo has bee rated by Expansion Management magazine as one of the top places to locate a company. Fargo has been rated by Forbes Magazine as the second best small city in the nation for business and careers.
The city's largest employers:
- MeritCare Health System
- North Dakota State University
- Fargo Public School District Number One
- Dakota Clinic, LTD
- US Bank Service Center
- Microsoft
- Innovis Health
- City of Fargo
- Noridian Mutual Insurance Company
- Fargo VA Medical Center
- Veterans Health Administration
- Wanzek Construction Company
- Upstream LLC
- Hornbachers Foods
- Dak Bev, LLC
- American Lutheran Homes, Inc
- Bethany Homes, Inc
- Alien Technology
- Blue Cross/Blue Shield
Fargo's leading nonagricultural employment segments:
- Trade, transportation and utilities
- Government
- Educational and health services
- Leisure and hospitality
- Professional and business services
- Financial activities
- Manufacturing
Facts about Fargo, North Dakota: In 2009 the average salary was $32,000. In 2008 the cost of living index in Fargo was 85.1. The nation's average is 100. For the population 25 years of age and older, 34% have acquired a bachelor's degree or better.
Fargo businesses have access to helpful organizations such as:
- Fargo Moorhead Chamber of Commerce
- Economic Development Association of North Dakota
- North Dakota Department of Commerce Economic Development and Finance
- Small Business Administration Dakota Department
The Inforum provides information about the local business community.
