In 1999, the idea of developing a technology center in Bottineau came about.  Brian Boppre (former EDC Director) and Kitty Corak (former dean of MSU-B) were very instrumental in working on and landing a grant with USDA, which helped to get project started.

The project began through a grant that was written with USDA - Rural Development called the Rural Business Enterprise Grant (RBEG) in the amount of $99,000.00.  This transaction was completed in September 2000.  The grant helped with the purchase of the building, some of the remodeling costs, and  established a revolving loan fund to help new technology businesses to start up in the area.

A second grant was written again through USDA - Rural Development called the Rural Business Opportunity Grant (RBOG) for $40,000.00.  This grant helped with the purchase of equipment for the building.

Both grants required matching funds, either dollar for dollar or in-kind matches, in order for the funds to be available to us.

Structure:
*     6000 square feet main street building
*     Classrooms
*     Video Conferencing Room
*     Low Rent Office Space
*     Public Computers
*     Computer Repair
*     Fast Internet Connectivity
*     Front Desk Assistance

Main Partnerships in Project:
*     Bottineau High School
*     Minot State University - Bottineau
*     United Telephone Company
*     Ottertail Power Company

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