Fargo ND October 2, 2007 - Mike Marcil, CEO of The Marcil Group, has been nominated for the North Dakota Innovator of the Year award.

The sixth annual Governor's Choice for Economic Development awards is sponsored by the North Dakota Department of Commerce. Nominations are accepted in five award categories: Professional Developer of the Year, Volunteer Developer of the Year, Project of the Year, Ambassador of the Year and Innovator of the Year. Winners will be selected later this month and will receive recognition and $1,000 earmarked for an economic development association of their choice.

"I am honored by this nomination," said Marcil. "I believe it is a reflection of both our commitment to and belief in the state of North Dakota."

"North Dakota has created nearly 2,100 new businesses and 25,000 new jobs since 2000, reflecting a healthy, expanding economy," Governor John Hoeven said. "The Governor's Choice Awards provide an opportunity to recognize leaders in business and economic development throughout the state who are leading the way to grow North Dakota."