May 29, 2024
Commerce Strengthens Economic Partnerships with Japan and the Republic of Korea
Commerce is advancing economic partnerships with Japan and the Republic of Korea, led by Deputy Commissioner Shawn Kessel. Kessel’s recent meetings with Japanese officials in Chicago, including Consul General Jun Yanagi and ANA Vice President Atsushi Nakao, highlighted North Dakota’s strengths in food production, energy innovation, and aviation. JETRO Chicago’s Senior Advisor Ralph Inforzato expressed strong support for facilitating Japanese investments in the state.
Kessel also met with Consul General Junghan Kim and other officials to explore mutual investment opportunities. The Republic of Korea’s existing business presence in North Dakota, through Doosan’s investment in Bobcat, paves the way for further collaboration. An investment mission to the Republic of Korea, led by Governor Burgum in October 2024, aims to attract Korean companies to North Dakota.
North Dakota’s Global Engagement office continues to promote the state as a prime destination for international investment, fostering relationships with global partners to ensure sustained economic growth.
Attention Casselton! Join the Main Street Initiative for a Roundtable Discussion
Commerce is hosting a Main Street Initiative visit in Casselton on June 6th! Join representatives from the Main Street Initiative team for a roundtable discussion at the Cass County Community Center from 10:00 AM to 11:30 AM. This is a great opportunity to connect with community leaders and residents, discuss the unique needs of Casselton, and share ideas for creating a healthy and vibrant community.
Free Webinar on Placemaking Grants
Hear from communities awarded the Statewide Public Space Initiative (SPSI) Placemaking Planning Grant. They'll share their project outcomes, implementation plans, and next steps.
This is a great opportunity to:
- Learn about successful public space initiatives in North Dakota.
- Gain insights into the placemaking planning process.
- Discover new ideas for your own community.
Don't miss out! This webinar is free and open to the public.
North Dakota Office of Legal Immigration Releases Statewide Study Report and Recommendations and Pilot Grant Program Guidance
North Dakota's Office of Legal Immigration (OLI) published a study with recommendations to address the state's workforce shortage. The study suggests attracting more immigrants to fill job openings. A pilot grant program will provide funding to improve job opportunities, community connections, and support for businesses and communities welcoming new immigrants. This initiative aims to integrate immigrants into the workforce and boost the state's economy.
North Dakota Office of Legal Immigration Discusses Programs to Address Workforce Shortages at Global Business Conference
North Dakota's Office of Legal Immigration's (OLI) Global Talent Coordinator Paige Kuntz brought her expertise to the 2024 Global Business Connections Conference in Fargo last week! The panel discussion focused on how our programs help North Dakota businesses tackle workforce challenges. Attendees were buzzing with questions about streamlining the process for integrating global talent into the state's workforce and economy, ultimately boosting North Dakota's business landscape.
Michael Highlights Rural Opportunities at Rugby Town Hall for My Town Docuseries
Commerce Talent Attraction Specialist Sara Michael joined a panel at Rugby’s Town Hall event during the filming of the docuseries “My Town”, a docuseries hosted by Cory Hepola, focused on breaking down popular misconceptions and negative stereotypes of the rural living lifestyle. Rugby was selected as one of 7 communities to be highlighted in the first season of the show. The Town Hall event included a keynote address by the host and a panel focused on Finding the Good Life in North Dakota. Michael, spoke on the Find the Good Life effort and the work it is doing to attraction workers to our state as well as the desire to retain talent to communities like Rugby.
Learn More about Find the Good Life
Miller and Oakland Spark Innovation at Wahpeton and Williston Schools
Commerce's Tracey Miller and Tom Oakland took innovation on the road recently, visiting schools in Wahpeton and Williston for Marketplace for Kids. This unique program isn't your typical career day. Marketplace for Kids provides a unique, one-of-a-kind experience where students explore careers, technology, and the future through hands-on activities that are rooted in entrepreneurship and innovation. The students were highly engaged and having a blast!
May 16, 2024
Commerce Connects and Informs at Elevate Innovate Celebrate Conference (EDND)
The recent Elevate Innovate Celebrate (EDND) conference in Grand Forks provided a valuable platform to explore the latest economic development trends. Several Commerce staff shared and gained insights into emerging industries with high growth potential in North Dakota, alongside strategies to attract and retain businesses within the state. Discussions also covered funding and resources available to fuel economic development projects.
The conference went beyond trends, showcasing North Dakota's strengths as a prime location for business growth and innovation. Participants learned about the state's favorable business climate and regulations, the skilled workforce readily available, and the infrastructure and resources that provide a strong foundation for business operations. Additionally, by leading roundtable discussions Commerce staff highlighted incentives and programs designed to make North Dakota an attractive destination for businesses to flourish. The event itself offered valuable opportunities to connect with key decision-makers across various industries, with Commerce staff actively participating and engaging with attendees.
Regional Workforce Impact Program Applications Now Open
Commerce is excited to announce the re-opening of the Regional Workforce Impact Program (RWIP) application portal. This grant program empowers North Dakota communities to develop innovative solutions to tackle their specific workforce challenges. Applications will be accepted until July 9, 2024.
The RWIP is a crucial opportunity for communities and regions to create lasting solutions for our state's workforce needs. Don't miss out on this chance to make a difference!
Showcasing North Dakota on the World Stage
Commerce Tourism and Marketing team, along with tourism representatives from Bismarck, Fargo, and Grand Forks (representing highway 2) journeyed to Los Angeles. Their purpose was to establish connections with international travel leaders at the 2024 U.S. Travel Association’s IPW event. This prestigious international marketplace attracts over 5,700 individuals from 70 countries and serves as the foremost catalyst for travel to the United States.
Community Development Team Honored & Awards $6.7M in CDBG Funding
Our dedicated Community Development team was recently recognized with an award for their outstanding work supporting the state and region with Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) programs. This recognition came at the HUD Regional training in Denver on April 30, 2024.
Continuing this momentum, the Department awarded $6.7 million in Governor's CDBG funding to four North Dakota communities. The CDBG program helps fund public facilities, services, housing, and economic development projects for low- and moderate-income residents. Elgin will use their grant to replace an aging water main, while West Fargo and Minot will use theirs to acquire land for affordable housing. Turtle Lake will upgrade their sanitary sewer system with their grant.
Miller and Schmidt Share Digital and Storytelling Expertise at Turtle Mountain Tourism Summit
Digital Systems Manager Tricia Miller and Communications Manager Kim Schmidt presented at the Turtle Mountain Tourism Summit, held at the International Peace Garden. The event brought together business and community leaders from Manitoba and North Dakota to explore strategies for cross-border promotion, maximizing marketing partnerships, utilizing digital tools, and effective destination storytelling.
The summit provided a wealth of resources and strategies, empowering leaders to enhance their work and contribute to the continued growth of the Turtle Mountain region's tourism industry.
North Dakota Launches Office of Outdoor Recreation to Boost Economy and Tourism
Outdoor recreation is a leading motivator for travel to North Dakota and opportunities to expand offerings through partnership was formalized with the launch of the Office of Outdoor Recreation at Fort Abraham Lincoln State Park last week. The office which will be housed within the North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department will work collaboratively with commerce, businesses and agencies.
Joining 20 other states and Washington, D.C., North Dakota has established this office to capitalize on the growing importance of outdoor recreation, which contributes over $1 trillion annually to the U.S. economy. In North Dakota, outdoor activities already generate $1.3 billion. The new office will further develop this sector, enhancing the state's natural assets and economic opportunities.
New Leadership at the North Dakota Development Fund!
Brian Opp has been named the interim CEO for the ND Development Fund. Brian brings a wealth of experience from his previous role as Technical Systems Business Development Manager, and his leadership will be crucial as the North Dakota Development Fund (NDDF) continues its mission. The NDDF is a vital resource for North Dakota's economic development. They bridge the gap between traditional lenders and new or expanding primary sector businesses in the state. This includes industries like agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and more. We look forward to his leadership as the NDDF continues to empower North Dakota's businesses and communities.
Find Qualified Candidates with the Commerce Candidate Marketplace
North Dakota employers looking to expand their teams can now leverage the Commerce Candidate Marketplace. This new initiative, developed in collaboration with Role Call, connects businesses with qualified individuals interested in relocating to North Dakota through the "Find the Good Life" program.
The Candidate Marketplace offers access to a growing pool of over 1,500 candidates who have already expressed interest in living and working in the state. This streamlined approach can save employers valuable time and resources in the recruitment process. As the "Find the Good Life" program continues its marketing efforts nationwide, the Candidate Marketplace will see a steady influx of new talent.
Connect with North Dakota's Future Workforce
Kroshus Earns Prestigious Building Analyst Technician Certification
Commerce is proud to announce that Alyssa Kroshus has earned the Building Analyst Technician Certification. This certification reflects Alyssa's dedication to improving the lives of others through weatherization programs, which enhance the efficiency and health of homes. Alyssa's accomplishment required extensive studying and hands-on training, culminating in passing a written and field exam. Congratulations, Alyssa!
Celebrate National Travel & Tourism Week with Us! (May 19-25)
This year, celebrate the power of travel and its impact on North Dakota. Join us by sharing stories on social media using #NTTW24, hosting an NTTW event, or offering special discounts. Learn more about how you can participate and watch a new video showcasing tourism's economic impact on our state!
May 2, 2024
Commerce and Minot Chamber Partner on Successful Trip Highlighting North Dakota's Advantages
Commerce recently held its quarterly ED&F meeting in Minot, North Dakota, alongside the Nuclear Triad Symposium hosted by the Minot Area Chamber EDC. This combined event provided a platform for commerce officials, legislators, local developers, and community members to discuss North Dakota's competitive advantages with a global audience.
The Nuclear Triad Symposium specifically focused on the critical role and impact of North Dakota's Air Force Bases within the nation's nuclear deterrence strategy. Attending the symposium offered a valuable opportunity to understand the immense contribution North Dakota plays through its Air Force installations and the ripple effects these bases have on the state's economy.
Local EDC representative Brekka emphasized the significance of such events in fostering understanding among legislators, agencies, and the community regarding the Air Force Bases' impact and the far-reaching economic implications associated with the Nuclear Triad.
Regional Workforce Impact Program Applications Re-Opening May 14th
Commerce is excited to announce the re-opening of the Regional Workforce Impact Program (RWIP) application portal on May 14, 2024.This grant program empowers North Dakota communities to develop innovative solutions to tackle their specific workforce challenges. Applications will be accepted until July 9, 2024.
The RWIP is a crucial opportunity for communities and regions to create lasting solutions for our state's workforce needs. Don't miss out on this chance to make a difference!
LIFT Committee awards $1.25 Million to boost clean tech innovations in oil and gas industry
Commerce awarded $1.25 million in April through its LIFT program, which supports innovative technologies in various sectors. Two companies received funding: Blue Rock Solutions for a methane emissions monitoring system and Valence Natural Gas Solutions for a mobile gas capture platform. Funds are limited and expected to be depleted soon, but $1.52 million remains available for eligible North Dakota companies in specified industries.
Effertz Joins Leaders at WGA Forum to Spotlight Success in Community and Rural Development
Commerce's Maria Effertz joined other state and agency leaders at the Western Governor’s Association (WGA) Western Prosperity Forum to share North Dakota’s successes and challenges in community and rural development. Her presentation included an overview of the federal and state grants where planning has been pivotal for community next steps and how the state will be working with communities and regions to reach success.
North Dakota Tourism Unveils Q1 Data, Gears Up for Travel Week
The North Dakota Tourism Industry Chat, held on April 25th, provided valuable insights for tourism professionals. Participants received a detailed report on visitor analytics for the first quarter, along with essential information to prepare for National Travel and Tourism Week and 701 Day. Additionally, attendees were updated on important news and upcoming deadlines relevant to the industry. Don't miss the next Industry Chat for more valuable information and industry updates!
North Dakota Development Fund, Inc. Celebrates Success of Wonder Fund Investments
The North Dakota Development Fund's Wonder Fund announced a new round of investments aimed at boosting North Dakota's economy. These strategic investments significantly benefit existing companies and attract new businesses to the state. Companies like Thread, Tavolo, and Drut Technologies received funding to support their growth and expansion in North Dakota, further solidifying the Wonder Fund's commitment to fostering innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic prosperity across the region.
Minot to boast North Dakota's Largest Public Artwork
Commerce's Sara Otte Coleman joined Minot officials and met with renowned artist Guido van Helten, who will be transforming the Minot Farmers Union grain silos into the state's biggest mural. This stunning artwork will celebrate the city's agricultural and military heritage, becoming part of van Helten's ongoing "Monuments" project highlighting the spirit of small and mid-sized American towns. This monumental project promises a major boost to Minot's downtown revitalization efforts. To see van Helten’s impressive works visit https://guidovanhelten.com/.
Victory for Wild Horses in Theodore Roosevelt National Park
The National Park Service announced the termination of its Livestock Plan and Environmental Assessment (EA) after careful consideration of public input. This means the wild horses will remain in Theodore Roosevelt National Park. Governor Doug Burgum expressed his gratitude to all those who advocated for the horses, including supporters who voiced their concerns and state legislators who passed a resolution in support of the herd.
This decision comes after 15 months of efforts by the Governor's office and the public to urge the National Park Service to maintain the wild horses. The future of these iconic animals remains secure, preserving a popular attraction and a significant piece of the park's history.
LeMoine and Schmidt Share "Find the Good Life" Strategy at Communications Event
Commerce recently shared its "Find the Good Life" marketing strategy at Communicate Stronger, a premier event for communications professionals. Commerce's Kim Schmidt and Heather LeMoine presented details on the campaign's goals, strategic partnerships, targeted media efforts, and the early successes it's garnered in attracting and retaining skilled individuals for the state. This presentation offered valuable insights for anyone seeking to understand Commerce's approach to building a thriving North Dakota workforce.
North Dakota Representatives See Promise in Nuclear Energy at State Energy Conference
Commerce's Tom Oakland and Rich Garman, and North Dakota Transmission Authority’s Claire Vigesaa attended the attended the National Governors Association, National Association of State Energy Officials, and National Association of Regulatory Utility Commissioners (NGA-NASEO-NARUC) conference in Oak Ridge, Tennessee last week. The conference included tours of Oak Ridge National Laboratory's facilities, showcasing the potential of 3D printing for manufacturing complex components and new advancements in nuclear technology. Panels with state energy officials highlighted the importance of collaboration between states in developing nuclear energy, with discussions ranging from workforce training to success stories in bringing new plants online and utilizing brownfield sites for advanced nuclear production. The conference emphasized the positive role nuclear energy can play in a state's energy portfolio.
Walker Showcases Beauty and Hospitality on Successful FAM Trip
Led by Commerce's Fred Walker, a 4.5-day FAM trip immersed five tour operators and one media representative in the diverse offerings of North Dakota. Guests explored cities like Bowman, Medora, and Fargo, experiencing wildlife in Theodore Roosevelt National Park, cultural events, and warm local hospitality. This FAM trip was part of the "Great American West International Roundup," a tourism event connecting regional suppliers with international and US travel buyers. The 2024 IRU event, which brought together over 150 destination marketers, facilitated valuable business.