Commerce News | Dec. 14
Commerce is excited to partner with ILT Academy to provide $572,143 in funding for Socially and Economically Disadvantaged Individuals (SEDI) and Very Small Businesses (VSBs) with the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Technical Assistance Grant Program. This initiative offers essential support, including legal, accounting, and financial services, empowering businesses to thrive in today's economic landscape.
Tourism and marketing Director Sara Otte Coleman spoke at the ribbon-cutting and grand opening of the Olive Ann Hotel in downtown Grand Forks. The destination boutique hotel incorporates the rich aviation and aerospace history of Grand Forks and industry trailblazer and legend Olive Ann Beech into the 78 rooms which are connected to Sky restaurant and Cloud 9 event center. Great detail was paid to the decor, amenities and service including art by local artists and locally made and grown amenities. Hundreds of people attended the event which also included an open house showcasing the luxury rooms, suites and meeting space. "This new property will elevate Grand Forks to a premier destination thanks to the vision and commitment of Phil Gisi," Otte Coleman said. "Properties like the Olive Ann will not only attract visitor revenue but will support business and workforce development."
Governor Burgum has appointed Cindy Griffin, VP of HR & Corporate Services at Harvestone Low Carbon Partners, as the Chair of the North Dakota Workforce Development Council, and Matt Marshall, Member Services, Rates, & Economic Development Manager at MinnKota Power Cooperative as Vice Chair. Together, they will lead the Council in its mission of advising the Governor and the public on workforce development needs and opportunities in North Dakota. Their focus is on optimizing resource use and avoiding unnecessary duplication of effort to meet the state's economic development needs effectively.
We've teamed up with the North Dakota Department of Transportation to showcase your travel brochures in 15 rest areas statewide! Partner with us to reach a broader audience and elevate visitor experiences. Register online for the Rest Area Brochure Program - just $250/style until Jan 5th, $300 after. Act fast, registration closes Feb 16, 2024.
The application system is now open for primary sector businesses wishing to utilize the Automation Tax Credit for automation equipment purchases made during the 2023 calendar year. Applicants are required to submit applications by Jan. 31 but are encouraged to begin preparing applications early.
Holiday Party, Appreciation Breakfast and an All-Staff full of learning and team building. It was a great week spent with our team from throughout the state. Thank you to our planning committee for all your hard work and for everyone making the trip!
With Dalberg's 20+ years of expertise and LaMP's focus on immigration law and workforce development, we're set to unveil innovative solutions through a statewide study. Paige Kuntz from the Office of Legal Immigration (OLI) expresses optimism, stating, "This alliance reaffirms our commitment to advancing OLI's mission, contributing to economic development and inclusivity in our state." Stay tuned for the full study report in Spring 2024!
According to Maria Effertz, Commerce Community Services Director, this grant will help to build resilient rural communities by supporting planning that supports strategically repurposing facilities, creating dynamic spaces to address immediate needs and pave the way for increased economic diversification. Eligible entities include cities, counties, economic development organizations, and tribal entities, with funding up to $50,000 and a minimum 10% match. The grant timeline is Dec. 18 to Feb. 9.
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