Northforce Recognized by Finance & Commerce

Randy Lasky, The Northspan Group (left) and Brian Hanson, APEX (right) pictured with Finance & Commerce’s Mark Berriman (center).

For the second time in 2016, NORTHFORCE was recognized for their efforts in talent development. On April 7, 2016, APEX and investor-member, The Northspan Group accepted Finance & Commerce’s Progress Minnesota award on behalf of NORTHFORCE. This news follows recognition of NORTHFORCE as the Economic Development Initiative of the Year by the Economic Development Association of Minnesota.

NORTHFORCE is a collaborative partnership with APEX, The Northspan Group, the Iron Range Resources and Rehabilitation Board (IRRRB), the City of Duluth, Minnesota, the City of Superior, Wisconsin, the College of St. Scholastica, Minnesota Power, Wells Fargo Bank, and the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation. APEX and The Northspan Group oversee marketing and program administration.

“Workforce development is an integral component of economic development,” stated Brian Hanson, APEX President and CEO. “Businesses thrive in locations where they can not only find existing talent, but where they can also attract new recruits. NORTHFORCE supports these needs for existing employers and potential new employers.”

“NORTHFORCE’s partners were innovative in the decision to launch and financially support the effort,” said Randy Lasky, The Northspan Group President and CEO. “Their partnership and investment ensures that NORTHFORCE will continue to respond to the region’s employment needs.”

The Progress Minnesota awards program was created to encourage, promote and honor entrepreneurs and organizations from across the state who, by their investment of time, energy and ideas, are having a significant impact on job creation, business development, and the overall economic health of the Twin Cities and the entire state. Regional honorees also included investor-member, Lake Superior College, and Tryon Media. The awards were presented at the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis on Thursday, April 7, 2016.

“Minnesota Power is proud to support NORTHFORCE’s efforts,” commented APEX Chair, Nancy Norr, Director of Regional Development at Minnesota Power. “It’s essential that the private sector financially support innovative initiatives like NORTHFORCE to drive their effectiveness.”

For more information on NORTHFORCE, contact Ian Vincent at (218) 740-3667.