Commerce News | May 16
Commerce staff actively participated in the recent Elevate Innovate Celebrate (EDND) conference in Grand Forks by leading roundtable discussion around many Commerce programs. This event offered valuable opportunities to connect with key decision-makers across various industries. By attending, staff gained valuable insights into the latest economic development trends, allowing us to better serve North Dakota businesses. They also had the opportunity to showcase the state's strengths as a location for growth and innovation.
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!
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. They secured 80 appointments at this prestigious international marketplace that attracts over 5,700 individuals from 70 countries and serves as the foremost catalyst for travel to the United States.
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, Community Development 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.
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.
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.
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, Inc. (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.
North Dakota employers looking to expand their teams can now leverage the Commerce Candidate Marketplace. This new initiative, developed in collaboration with RoleCall, 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.
Questions about Candidate Marketplace or the Find the Good Life Program? Contact Sara Michael at michaelsara@nd.gov.
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!
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!
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