James Leiman, new Department of Commerce commissioner, says Grand Forks tech accelerator a 'microcosm' of the state Now in his third month at the helm of the department, James Leiman said he envisions the Department of Commerce teaming up with cities, and entities like chambers of commerce and economic development corporations, to provide support for companies at all stages of development. 2:00 pm, May 7, 2021 × The Grand Forks Herald building is shown in this file photo. (Herald staff photo) To North Dakota Commerce Commissioner James Leiman, the Herald building in downtown Grand Forks – and local plans to turn it into a tech accelerator – reflect a “microcosm of our state.”