A collaborative effort, partly financed by the North Dakota Opportunity Fund, has provided a new home for a long-time northwestern North Dakota business.
In the Potter’s Hand, Inc. received NDOF financing to help fund a portion of the purchase of a 9,300 square foot commercial building in Crosby, North Dakota.
The new facility will serve as the business’ new headquarters.
In addition to the NDOF, financing for the project involved lead lender BNC National Bank, Crosby Economic Development Corporation, and Burke-Divide Electric Cooperative.
“Partners came together to make this project a reality,” said LCD Group Commercial Lending Director Matt Burthold. “This is exactly how small town economic development should work.”
Their efforts has allowed business owner Gerald Gillund to move his business off of his farm and right onto Crosby’s Main Street.
A ‘Pride of Dakota’ Success Story
In the Potter’s Hand, Inc (IPH) was established in 2000 as a farm-based, family-owned and operated business. From the beginning, the company marketed skin care products under the brand name Dakota Free Products. It has since grown to manufacture and market distinct lines of allergen-specific, gluten-free skincare, hair care, bath, baby care, and spa items.
The unique products made and marketed by IPH grew out of necessity by life-changing family needs. Originally, the expectation was for IPH to focus on a small niche market: customers with health problems and skin sensitivities.
The original manufacturing facility was built on the Gillund farm back in 2002. While some products will continue to be manufactured on the farm, the majority of new production will take place in IPH’s new facility, which will also include new speciality products.
The new location on Main Street will allow for walk-in sales for both IPH products and those of other ‘Pride of Dakota’ vendors.
“This is a ripple-effect project with a small business needing to expand and a community wanting to fill a spot on Main Street. As a result, In the Potter’s Hand will increase their sales, draw visitors into the community, and also help other vendors. Every North Dakota Opportunity Fund project is rewarding in its own way. This project especially fulfills the Fund’s purpose,” says Burthold
Expanding Opportunity Across North Dakota
The North Dakota Opportunity Fund leverages private financing to help small business owners attain loans and investments to expand and create jobs. LCD Group manages the fund, which is available in 38 municipalities across the state.
To learn more about the North Dakota Opportunity Fund and LCD Group’s other business loan programs, contact Matt at (701) 667-7601 or at matt@lcdgroup.org.
Additional program information may also be found online here.
Also be sure to visit healthycricket.com to shop IPH products.