L to R: Gov Doug Burgum, Akbar Shamji, Josh Teigen (ND Economic Development Director), MHA Tribal Chair Mark Fox, Kevin O'Leary
FARGO (KFGO) – Bitzero, which builds and operates data centers sourced by renewable energy, has chosen North Dakota as the site of its North American headquarters. The company made the announcement alongside Governor Doug Burgum, MHA Tribal Chair Mark Fox, and famed investor Kevin O’Leary at an event in Fargo today.
O’Leary, known best for his role on the reality investor series Shark Tank, said he relishes telling the story of North Dakota to investors.
“This is an incredible place and I’ll tell you why. In the pursuit of data centers you need three things: you need power, you need policy – because this is a very long term and expensive journey, and you need people who understand what you’re trying to do. And North Dakota has all of those,” O’Leary said.
He called data “the new oil” and said the state is well positioned to capitalize yet again. Burgum agreed.
“Bitzero’s decision to locate its North American headquarters in North Dakota is yet another example of how our state is emerging as the location of choice for clean energy data centers supported by reliable, affordable electricity produced with environmental stewardship,” Burgum said. “This growing industry will continue to diversify our economy and elevate North Dakota’s status as the place to do business for tech entrepreneurs and innovators.”
Bitzero CEO Akbar Shamji said his company is committed to driving energy innovation in data services, and that mission made North Dakota a natural home base. The headquarters, which has yet to be sited, will employ 15 to 20 people to drive operations in the state.
Bitzero will also partner with MHA Nation to use hydroelectric power from the Garrison dam for a data center which will in turn help heat a greenhouse the tribe is building.
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