Commerce News | Aug. 24
Commerce's Economic Development & Finance team visited Grand Forks for an exclusive tour of Northrup Grumman's futuristic facility, witnessing advanced drone missions. They also explored autonomous ventures at Northern Plains Test Site and Grand Sky and engaged with innovation at the Hive accelerator. The trip wrapped up with insightful discussions at the Northeast ND EDA Directors meeting, leaving the team eager for more from Grand Forks' offerings.
This appointment recognizes Sara's exceptional leadership in tourism and destination development, as well as her dedication to advancing the many benefits of travel. In her new role, Otte Coleman will focus on enhancing cooperation among state travel offices and advocating for policies that promote sustainable tourism growth. She will also be responsible for maintaining transparent and comprehensive data working with U.S. Travel and the National Travel and Tourism Office.
The Office of Legal Immigration is taking action to address the state's workforce shortage by partnering with agencies and businesses to recruit and support foreign labor. With 40,000 job vacancies despite low unemployment, the initiative aims to integrate global talent and boost economic growth.
Commerce COO and Deputy Commissioner, Shawn Kessel, and Consul General Bart Twaalfhoven convened for a productive conversation centered around North Dakota's economy, the pivotal role of the Commerce department within the state, and the prospects for bolstering collaborative efforts between North Dakota and the Netherlands. The dialogue highlighted potential areas of synergy for economic cooperation and growth.
Commerce is pleased to announce the launch of the 2023 Base Retention Grants, a crucial initiative aimed at supporting organizations committed to strengthening and retaining the missions of the Air Force and Air National Guard in Minot, Grand Forks, and Fargo.
The Base Retention Grant program allocates:
- $850,000 for eligible organizations in Minot
- $250,000 for eligible organizations in Grand Forks
- $250,000 for eligible organizations in Fargo
North Dakota excelled at the NGA Summer Symposium in Fargo. NVCTC's Mike Hanson emphasized work-based learning, Microsoft showcased AI's importance and equity, Cardinal IG promoted inclusivity, and tribal community partnerships thrived. Dave Farnsworth's leadership legacy continued with Katie Ralston Howe's vice chair election. The event united diverse workforce leaders and left an indelible mark on attendees, resonating from coffee shops to conference halls.
Katie Ralston Howe, Workforce Division Director at the North Dakota Department of Commerce, has been elected to the National Association for State Liaisons for Workforce Development Partnerships executive committee, marking the first time that North Dakota has had representation at this level.
North Dakota will be featured in a new episode of Epic Trails set to premiere in September.
Step into the spotlight and showcase your community's exceptional spirit by nominating for the 2023 Governor's Main Street Awards. It's your chance to shine, regardless of your community's size or location. Nominate before September 15, 2023, and highlight your community's Main Street Initiative achievements from the past year. The grand celebration awaits – picture your community winning at the prestigious 2023 Main Street ND Summit. Explore categories like Healthy, Vibrant Community and Smart, Efficient Infrastructure. Dare to be outstanding – nominate now and let your community's excellence resonate!
Commerce introduces the Regional Workforce Impact Program (RWIP) to tackle workforce challenges via region-specific initiatives. RWIP provides grants to local entities for innovative solutions, fostering economic stability and prosperity. With funding allocations based on regional populations, this program aims to enhance talent attraction, retention, infrastructure, and capital investments while promoting collaboration for sustainable workforce development. Explore the grant guidance and be part of shaping the future of North Dakota's workforce landscape.
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