About Us

Our History

Back in 2014 a group of Grand Forkian friends shared a vision. They dreamed of having a space where entrepreneurs could work with no overhead costs for real estate. Their goal was to support startups and entrepreneurs in partnership with the community. In 2017, The 701 Coworking space was created and several initiatives were started, one of which is 1 Million Cups- Grand Forks. As time would have it, things changed and evolved, including the name.

Evolve Grand Forks incorporated as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and oversees six initiatives: UpNext, Main Street Grand Forks, The 701 Coworking space, StartUP Grand Forks, Support Small-Love Local, Grand Forks Entrepreneurial Ecosystem convener, and soon, Couch 2 CEO. Evolve Grand Forks is an integral player in the entrepreneurial ecosystem of the Greater Grand Forks community. We have surpassed our aspirational goal of 40 members in The 701 Coworking and more than 40 startups have stood on-stage to tell their story through a previous program, 1 Million Cups. 

Evolve Grand Forks Board

Kaleb Dschaak

Fenworks, Inc.
Board President

Bridget West

Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation
Board Vice President

Mark Yahna

Alerus Financial
Board Treasurer

Kaelan Reedy

Fenworks, Inc.
Board Member

Jared Westrem

Airtonomy
Board Member

Get Involved with Evolve Grand Forks

With a variety of programs and mentorship options, we have just the right volunteer opportunity for you.