Norman County offers the ideal environment to grow, start, or relocate your business, with tailored support from the EDA in funding, planning, and strategic development. Coupled with strong connectivity and infrastructure, businesses thrive in a community deeply invested in their success. If you are ready to explore these opportunities, connect with us today.
Workforce
Norman County boasts a highly skilled and dedicated workforce, with access to tens of thousands more in the metro areas. Additionally, the county is surrounded by more than 50,000 post-secondary students, ensuring a steady pipeline of educated early-career professionals ready to contribute to the local economy.
3,414
Local Workforce
200,000+
Regional Workforce
50,000+
Early-career professionals
Infrastructure
Norman County’s location provides exceptional opportunities for business growth. With easy access to major highways, air travel, and metro hubs, plus a dependable network of utilities and telecommunications, businesses here thrive in a strategic and cost-effective environment built for success.
Metro Proximity: Located 45 minutes from both Fargo-Moorhead and Grand Forks metro areas.
Major Roadways: US Route 75, State Highways 9, 200, 32, and 113.
Interstate Access: Just 10 minutes from I-29, 20 minutes from US Route 2, and US Route 10.
Regional Reach: 2 hours to the Canadian border, 4 hours to Minneapolis-St. Paul & Duluth.
Local Airport: Near Twin Valley, plus easy access to international airports in Fargo and Grand Forks.
Railroad: A regional rail line extends into Norman County at Shelly, MN.
Trucking & Freight: Multiple freight and logistics companies serve the region.
Electricity
- Red River Valley Cooperative Power Association
- Xcel Energy
- Otter Tail Power Company
Waste Management
- Al’s Disposal
- Norman County Demolition Landfill
- Community Compost Site (Ada)
Water & Sewer
- Municipal
- WCRWD (proposed)
Internet
- Arvig Communications
- Halstad Telephone Company
Natural Gas
- Minnesota Energy Resources
- Community Co-op
Entrepreneurs
Norman County is an ideal launchpad for entrepreneurs looking to start, grow, or relocate their businesses. With a strong business community, local funding opportunities, and access to regional and statewide resources, companies here thrive in an environment built for innovation and long-term success.
Funding
Local Lending Institutions:
American Federal Bank
Frandsen Bank & Trust
BMO
Northwestern Bank
Red River State Bank
Ultima Bank
United Valley Bank
Mid Minnesota Federal Credit Union
AgCountry Farm Credit Services
Local Funding Sources:
Norman County EDA
City EDA (Ada, Halstad, Hendrum, Twin Valley)
Northwest Minnesota Foundation
Assistance
Norman County EDA
City EDA (Ada, Halstad, Hendrum, Twin Valley)
Minnesota Small Business Development Centers (SBDC)
Chamber of Commerce (Ada)
NoW Innovators Network
University of Minnesota Extension
Taxes & Incentives
Norman County has the 3rd lowest Effective Tax Rate for All Property out of 87 Minnesota counties. Explore these additional tax resources:
Research and Development Tax Credit
Greater MN Job Expansion Program
EDA Loans & Grants
Storefront Improvement Grants: up to $1,000 to improve the appearance of a commercial building.
Small Business Loan: up to $15,000 for qualified businesses.
Business Incentives
Norman County EDA offers a range of business incentives, including tax credits, and grants, to support local entrepreneurs and growing businesses.
Testimonials
“If you want to start or grow your business in an area that has wonderful opportunities and a supportive business community, Norman County should be at the top of your list.” – Laura K.
“Our family has operated our business in Norman County, MN for over 20 years. A loyal customer base, reliable workforce and supportive business climate have made it possible for us to grow over the years. Beyond business success, this community has been a wonderful place where we’ve raised our children and built lifelong friendships.” – Rodney M.
“Norman County is a very good place to raise a family. There are business opportunities here and the overall lifestyle affordability is excellent.” – Kristi M
Voted #1 for Northern MN Best Beauty Services – Minnesota’s Best 2026
Relocate, expand, or launch.
Norman County EDA is here to turn your vision into reality. Let’s make it happen together. Connect with us today!