WDAY Radio reported that a comprehensive new statewide survey reveals widespread profitability among North Dakota businesses, even as employers across the state navigate complex operational and workforce hurdles. According to the 2026 GNDC survey, 59 percent of respondents rated the state economy as strong, reflecting an underlying resilience in the local business environment.
Data released from the survey highlights strong financial health for a large majority of enterprises. Arik Spencer noted that 89 percent of businesses reported recent profitability over the past year. Furthermore, Arik Spencer pointed out that a significant majority of respondents view the overarching commercial environment favorably. "89 percent of our members report profitability in the last year. 86 percent think we have a good business climate," Arik Spencer told WDAY Radio.
Expanding on these economic indicators, the survey underscores how local conditions diverge from broader patterns. "We’re fortunate in North Dakota that our economy has always kind of bucked what’s going on nationally," Arik Spencer told WDAY Radio when discussing the findings of the 2026 GNDC survey.
Despite this reported economic strength, the 2026 GNDC survey outlines substantial operational barriers that could impact future business growth across the region. Fifty-nine percent of businesses reported facing hiring difficulties in the current market. Even with these ongoing recruitment challenges, 49 percent of respondents indicated that they actively plan to expand their workforce over the next 12 months, according to the data provided by Arik Spencer.
Workforce preparation emerged as a critical concern for employers evaluating the local talent pool. According to Arik Spencer, only 34 percent of high school graduates possess the necessary academic knowledge required by employers. The readiness gap widens further when assessing broader competencies, with Arik Spencer noting that just 14 percent of graduates possess essential interpersonal and professional skills.
In addition to labor and skills shortages, external economic pressures continue to weigh heavily on operations. Arik Spencer reported that 73 percent of respondents experienced increased supply costs over the evaluation period. Infrastructure and support systems also present major obstacles for the state's workforce. Specifically, Arik Spencer stated that 66 percent of respondents identified childcare as a workforce challenge, while 54 percent of businesses cited housing as a substantial barrier to employment and retention.
