Area Development
Epitome Energy will locate a soybean crushing plant in Grand Forks, North Dakota. The $400 million project is expected to create up to 60 jobs.

The new facility will strengthen farmers’ basis for soybeans by 20 to 25 cents per bushel, according to company officials. The plant will process up to 42 million bushels of soybeans per year into crude degummed soybean oil, meal and hulls. Construction is scheduled for completion in the fall of 2025.

“Over the past two decades, soybean production has increased by more than 300% in the Red River Valley and become a dominant crop in the region. However, many soybean farmers are over 100 miles away from the nearest processing facility. As a result, soybeans in the region are regularly among the lowest priced in the country, and farmers are forced to spend more on the transport of their harvests prior to sale and are unable to reach certain markets,” said company officials.

Epitome Energy anticipates entering into a development agreement with the City of Grand Forks that will outline the responsibilities of each party.

“Our team was thrilled that Epitome Energy has selected Grand Forks as a perfect location for their soybean crushing facility,” said Keith Lund, President and CEO Greater Fargo-Moorhead EDC. “The Grand Forks region is home to some of America’s richest farmland and provides plentiful opportunities for agribusiness. We will continue to work to support Dennis and Epitome team throughout the development process.”