• Open Date: June 1, 2026
• Purpose: Celebrate the entrepreneurs, organizations, and industries that have shaped North Dakota
• Location: Medora
• Businesses Featured: 17
• Sponsored by: Dakota Business Lending
• Partners: Theodore Roosevelt Medora Foundation

Built on Grit: ND Business Hall of Fame™ is an interactive and educational exhibit created to celebrate the entrepreneurs, industries, and organizations that make North Dakota great. The exhibit, designed by 44-year-old financing company Dakota Business Lending in partnership with the Theodore Roosevelt Medora foundation, highlights businesses from across the state that have grown, impacted, and left a lasting legacy throughout North Dakota and beyond. The exhibit is open daily from June 1 – September 14, 2026 and is free for visitors of all ages.

Built on Grit features 17 businesses across 4 categories.

The businesses and categories were thoughtfully selected for the lasting impact they have made on North Dakota with the following criteria:

• Founded or headquartered or operating in ND
• Active and in operation OR have a lasting legacy through their brand, innovation, or industry impact
• For-profit entity
• Variety of industry, location, type, etc.
• Demonstrated measurable community impact
• Ethical, reputable standing
• Fits further category specifications

Longstanding North Dakota businesses whose legacy continues across generations.

Innovative North Dakota businesses shaping the future through innovation, technology and industries.

• Founded: May 10, 1982
• Who We Are: Mission-drive business lending organization
• What We Do: Help small businesses access financing and resources to start, grow, and expand
• Loan Programs: SBA 504, Direct Business Loans, New Markets Tax Credits
• Footprint: North Dakota, South Dakota, Montana, and Minnesota

Founded in 1982, Dakota Business Lending is a mission-driven business lending organization dedicated to helping small businesses access the financing and resources they need to start, grow, and expand their business. Through programs such as the SBA 504 Loan program, Direct Business Loan program, and other lending resources, Dakota Business Lending works alongside entrepreneurs, banking partners, and community leaders to support business growth and continued economic development across their footprint.

As a 44-year-old organization rooted in small business growth, Dakota Business Lending understands the grit, risk, resilience, and long-term commitment it takes to build something lasting. This exhibit exists to honor those stories, preserve North Dakota’s business history, and recognize the incredible people and businesses that make our state great.

Please reach out to our team with any questions or for additional information.

Be sure to follow us on social media for future updates!

Visit Us:
Harold Schafer Hertiage Center
335 4th St | Medora, ND 58645

[email protected]

Exhibit created by Dakota Business Lending