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Bismarck

About Dave

Dave Kleppe joined the North Dakota APEX Accelerator in 2014 as a counselor. In 2017, the University of North Dakota became host with Dave as Program Manager. He has a leading role in developing the ND APEX client base across the state and building relationships with program resource partners including state agencies and organizations (ND Dept. of Commerce, ND District SBA office, Air Force bases, ND National Guard, ND Women’s Business Center, Impact Dakota MEP), other regional organizations (economic development groups, regional councils, certified development corporations, Small Business Development Centers, Veterans Business Outreach Center), institutions of higher education, and tribal communities.

Dave was previously with the North Dakota Highway Patrol, retiring from the agency as Major/Chief of Staff. The position was responsible for fiscal management, procurement, planning, accreditation, IT, HR, and training components.  He holds a BS in Criminal Justice with a minor in Business Administration and is a graduate of Northwestern University’s School of Police, Staff, and Command. Dave and his wife, Kathy, are empty nesters and especially enjoy spending time with their soon-to-be school-age granddaughters.

About Mary

Mary Klabo joins the team as a Government Contracting Advisor, bringing a career built around helping people navigate complex systems, build strong relationships, and find practical solutions. She has extensive experience in outreach, customer education, and partner engagement, with a focus on making information clear, useful, and accessible. Before joining ND APEX, Mary worked in community outreach, provider relations, field operations, and network development for organizations including NextBlue of North Dakota, Sanford Health Plan, Health Net Federal Services, Humana Veterans’ Healthcare Services, and United Blood Services. Across these roles, she supported customers, providers, hospitals, Veterans’ healthcare networks, and community partners through education, communication, and issue resolution.

Mary holds an MBA from the University of Mary and a BA in Speech Communications from Minnesota State University Moorhead. She is also a Certified Associate Project Manager and is active in the Fargo community through volunteer and leadership roles.