The Prairie Den has hosted several events including the Fargo Game Makers, the NDSU Innovation Fellows, Startup Drinks, a Game Jam, an E-Commerce Breakfast and a New American Entrepreneurs Panel.  

One recent event was the first TechTailgate. The event brought together several meetups and learning groups who could interact and share ideas. Read more about it on this blog. 

"Powerful." The reaction from one local K-12 education leader who was among a group of education leaders who got a sneak peek at Ted Dintersmith's documentary called "Most Likely to Succeed". The documentary focuses on the current education system and examines the needs within the classroom. The film highlights High Tech High a school in California that uses an educational practice called project based learning.

The documentary continues a growing conversation focused on mainstream teaching practices versus newer education practices. 

What does that mean? 

There's the current stand-and-deliver method of teaching or teaching to a test; it's what we all know and remember. Then there's a newer practice of education that incorporates what is called project-based learning (PBL). PBL focuses on one challenge or one project that forces students to work in a team to solve that problem. It turns teachers into coaches, integrates multiple subjects and challenges students to communicate, collaborate, think critically and be creative. It more closely reflects how people live and work. PBL allows teachers to meet standards through engaging projects and real, relevant problem solving.

From an educator's perspective, the documentary represents "a visual of the things we've been talking about."

About two years ago, the Greater FM EDC, the three public schools in West Fargo, Fargo and Moorhead as well as United Way of Cass Clay formed an initiative called Education that Works focused on ways to assist education in its effort to continue to make education more relevant in today's world.

"We (Education that Works) have aspirational goals. This is affirmation," Dr. David Flowers, Superintendent West Fargo Public Schools.

So why join us on September 17th to watch this documentary? Why will education, industry, economic development and hopefully, state legislators, and parents all be at this event?

Because this documentary sets the stage for our community to have a discussion. It's a way to examine what education looks like today and its potential. It's an opportunity to look at what is happening in our world and ask ourselves, is this enough? Are we doing enough for our students, our children and the future leaders of this nation?

"Don't all kids deserve this?" Dr. Lynne Kovash, Superintendent, Moorhead Public Schools.

Join us September 17th 7:15 p.m. at the Fargo Theatre in downtown Fargo. Let's start the conversation. We will be joined by Ted Dintersmith, producer/filmmaker. There will be a panel discussion after viewing the documentary. It's free; you just need to register.

From lack of workforce to e-commerce sales tax regulations, twelve folks in the startup community and economic development met with U.S. Representative Kevin Cramer to talk about ways the federal government can support Fargo's thriving entrepreneurial community.

Meeting in the Prairie Den, a co-working space in downtown Fargo, entrepreneurs like Clint Howitz, Founder and Pack leader of Dog ID's, talked about the challenges and benefits to growing a business in the Fargo Moorhead community.

"E-commerce has huge potential for Fargo. You don't need foot traffic," said Howitz.

Howitz also echoed the challenge many across the table expressed, a lack of qualified workforce.

The meeting was put together as part of Startup Day Across America. The national initiative invites members of Congress to meet with startups to learn about the challenges new companies face.

"Culture has been fostered in community, and it's a very positive thing. The country could learn from Fargo," said Jim Traynor, Intelligent InSites.

Traynor said they regularly encourage employees to get out and get involved in community events like 1 Million Cups.

"It's a great time to be from North Dakota," Rep. Cramer said, noting how oil extraction has put North Dakota on a national stage.

"What are we doing in this moment on the stage?"

The oil and technology industries collide in Fargo at Bits + Bytes, a public event hosted by the North Dakota Petroleum Council and Bakken Backers.

"Bits + Bytes" will highlight how Red River Valley firms are taking part in the Bakken to grow their businesses and includes Bakken 101, where the public can learn the basics of horizontal drilling and fracturing, and why the Bakken is recognized across the world.

Monday, September 21

3:00 - 5:30

Fargo Theatre

Hosted by Tammy Miller, CEO, Border States Electric