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 Leiman discusses North Dakota's robust economic growth
Commerce Commissioner James Leiman joined Scott Hennen on the What's on Your Mind daily forum this week to discuss the latest news about North Dakota's economy.
During the forum, Leiman highlighted that the state has more than $30 billion in projects that are currently underway. When adding prospective projects that are still in the consideration phase, the total is more than $50 billion.
These projects touch every part of the state and utilize existing assets with new technology to meet the production needs of the global market.
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 Nominate a deserving tourism person or entity today for a prestigious 2022 Governor's Award for Travel and Tourism
The Governor’s Awards for Travel and Tourism are annually given to recognize the passion and dedication of North Dakotans who have contributed to growing travel and tourism, our state’s third-largest industry. These awards honor the people, organizations and communities that create valued destinations across North Dakota. The nomination can be made by anyone and are open to all North Dakotans.
Now is the time to get your nominations in, the deadline is April 5! Awards will be presented at the Travel Industry Conference, North Dakota's premier conference for tourism marketers, travel-sector businesses, attractions, events and groups in April.
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 Save the dates for the 2022 Travel Industry Chats
This year’s Travel Industry Chats will feature guest speakers and trending topics. All are welcome to join! More information, times and links to participate in these free chats will be available soon.
- March 21 – The power of influencer marketing
- May 23 – Maximizing SEO and NDtourism.com Partner Portal refresher
- July 18 – The latest in social media marketing
- Sept. 19 – TBD
- Nov. 21 – TBD
Contact Heather at hlemoine@nd.gov for additional information.
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 New resource available for Tourism partners - Brand USA Road Trip videos
Five new videos created in partnership with Brand USA, the marketing arm of travel to the United States, showcase legendary experiences around the state. The uniqueness of each experience is demonstrated throughout the videos and is directed at specific niches that are currently resonating with travelers – small towns, Native American experiences, cultural attractions, National Parks, scenic beauty, wildlife and wide-open spaces. You can view the videos here.
 North Dakota featured on Selling Travel magazine's website
Selling Travel Magazine is the UK’s leading monthly independent travel trade publication, with 25 years of experience in giving travel agents the industry news and destination information they need to be better at selling travel. An interview with North Dakota Tourism Global Marketing Manager Fred Walker resulted in a featured homepage promotion linking to a full web page article focusing on North Dakota.
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Please join us in welcoming Tom Oakland to the Commerce team!
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 Do you have an idea for a small community project? If so, the Main Street Vibrancy Grant may be a great fit to bring your vision to fruition!
Applications for the Main Street Initiative 2022 Vibrancy Grant are currently being accepted through March 31.
The Vibrancy Grant Program supports local efforts to increase community vibrancy by providing seed funding for a small project that will build momentum and inspire additional projects. “Community vibrancy improves quality of life, helps attract and retain workforce, and enhances community pride, Commerce Community Services Director Maria Effertz Hanson said. “This program is designed to meet the needs of every community in North Dakota. Whether your community wants to add public art, activate underutilized space, or promote walking and biking, funding from this grant will inspire others in your community to engage and contribute to the community vibrancy that improves quality of life for both visitors and residents.”
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AmeriCorps Grant is open for applications
The AmeriCorps Grant provides assistance for programs to recruit, train, and supervise AmeriCorps members meeting critical community needs in the areas of education, disaster services, health, environmental stewardship, economic opportunity, and service to veterans and military families. Grant applicants design service activities for a team of members serving full- or part-time for one year or during the summer.
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The Operation Intern application window is now closed
 Operation Intern closed for applications on Feb. 4. We are very pleased with the amount of interest received; however, all funds have been obligated. Thank you to everyone who has shown their support in addressing our state's workforce needs!
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