Commerce News | Oct 31
 Join us for an in-depth look at how employers and universities can collaborate to leverage Optional Practical Training (OPT) pathways to fill critical STEM positions.
Discover how to maximize the benefits of the OPT extension to meet workforce demands while supporting international graduates in gaining valuable U.S. work experience.
Commerce is excited to announce the launch of the application portal for the Office of Legal Immigration (OLI) Grant Program. This initiative, established under Senate Bill 2142, aims to support businesses and communities in recruiting, retaining, and integrating New Americans into our workforce.
Grants will be available to eligible businesses and community organizations focused on enhancing workforce and community integration. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with funding available until June 30, 2025.
Commerce's Community Services Director, Maria Effertz, presented at the 2024 Rural Developers Assembly last week, hosted by the ND Association of Rural Electric Cooperatives. Her presentation highlighted key success stories and best practices from various rural development programs. The event provided an exciting opportunity to connect and share the remarkable work being done in rural communities across North Dakota.
Commerce Economic Development & Finance Director Rich Garman recently contributed his insights on two panels at the 2024 Frontiers Project Meeting, addressing Economic Development and Policy in Frontier States and discussing Emerging Opportunities in Utah for Advanced Nuclear Reactor Applications. Hosted by The Atlantic Council in partnership with the Idaho National Laboratory and the University of Utah’s Energy Futures Research Engine, the event built on discussions from prior meetings in Jackson, Wyoming, and Anchorage, Alaska, where key economic and energy security issues were addressed.
The 2024 meeting focused on Utah's potential as an early leader in adopting advanced nuclear technologies for off-grid applications such as data centers, military installations, and mining. As the global demand for low-emissions production grows, the Frontiers Project emphasizes the importance of industry, academic, and government partnerships to advance U.S. leadership in low-emissions manufacturing and strengthen economic opportunities in frontier states.
The momentum from the 2024 Travel Industry Marketing Summit continued with an insightful webinar presented by Tourism Marketing and Research Manager Heather LeMoine. Attendees had the chance to explore the Arrivalist research program, which offers valuable insights for partners. The session also highlighted various cooperative advertising and promotion options, as well as opportunities to enhance visibility through website features and e-newsletters.
If you would like to learn more about the marketing plan and cooperative opportunities available, reach out to our Marketing and Research Manager Heather LeMoine.
Commerce Tourism and Marketing Director Sara Otte Coleman joined Gov. Doug Burgum last week to celebrate the grand opening of the Good Bear Bay Lodge at Indian Hills Resort on Lake Sakakawea. This four-bedroom, 2.5-bath lodge offers a full kitchen and spacious outdoor patio, providing the perfect retreat for families and larger groups. Supported by the Destination Development Grant program, the lodge addresses a critical need for family-friendly lodging in the area. Coleman noted its potential to attract more visitors and enhance their experiences in North Dakota’s beautiful landscapes. Open year-round, the lodge invites guests to enjoy a variety of activities, from ice fishing in winter to summer water sports.
The North Dakota Community Development Block Grant (CDBG) program has received $8,785,020 in funding requests for fiscal year 2024, awarding $3,070,765.46 to four communities—Almont, Ashley, Lakota, and Regent—for essential infrastructure improvements, accessibility upgrades, and public service enhancements. These funds will support projects such as replacing outdated sewer and water systems in Almont, repairing Ashley's sewage system, making Lakota High School ADA-compliant, and reconstructing Main Street in Regent. Commerce Community Development Director Maria Effertz highlighted the program's role in strengthening community well-being and enhancing the quality of life for low- to moderate-income residents.
Commerce's Global Marketing Manager Fred Walker recently completed an impactful trip, starting with the Nordic BrandUSA Roadshow, where he engaged with 106 travel trade professionals in Stockholm, followed by 92 in Helsinki and 82 in Oslo. These events allowed for meaningful connections with Nordic partners, crucial for expanding North Dakota's tourism presence in these markets and fostering collaboration that can enhance travel interest in the state. He then attended BrandUSA Travel Week in London, participating in 42 international trade appointments alongside Sheri Grossman from the Bismarck-Mandan Convention and Visitors Bureau.
The week featured valuable enrichment sessions on AI, consumer trends, and product access, as well as market updates from six of our seven key markets. Walker also gained insights from four keynote speakers discussing best trade marketing practices, the creative world of Song Exploder, disability awareness, and the importance of arts and culture, all of which are essential for promoting North Dakota's unique offerings to a global audience.
Commerce's Communications Specialist Amber Farrington and Social Strategist Alicia Joliffe recently visited Grand Forks to gather insights for future media outreach and social media campaigns. They met with key spokespeople to highlight the innovative uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) initiatives at GrandSKY, a visit aimed at strengthening Commerce's communication strategy. They also documented attractions and events throughout the community.
Additionally, renowned travel host Darley Newman of "Travels with Darley" explored Fargo and Grand Forks, experiencing the vibrant culture and unique attractions these cities offer. Her visit will help showcase North Dakota to a wider audience.
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