Commerce News | Dec 4
Commerce is now accepting applications for the Regional Workforce Impact Program (RWIP) grant, aimed at addressing critical workforce challenges across the state. The application period is open through January 21, 2025. The grant supports community-driven solutions to issues like talent attraction, workforce retention, and infrastructure investments. Eligible applicants include North Dakota-based organizations such as economic development groups, cities, and childcare centers.
Commerce Visitor Sales and Services Manager Deanne Cunningham attended the National Tour Association conference in Huntsville, AL, from November 17-20. During the event, Deanne met with 30 tour operators eager to develop and create products for 2025-2027, with a strong focus on the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library, new hotels, attractions, and upcoming events.
Commerce is partnering with the Midwest Energy Efficiency Alliance (MEEA) to enhance building code education and energy efficiency across North Dakota. From January 1, 2025, to January 31, 2029, this initiative will address local needs, provide tools and resources, and promote workforce opportunities to advance energy codes. Key goals include improving construction practices, adopting stronger energy codes, advancing building performance standards, and engaging underserved communities in energy policy discussions.
In this 60-minute session, Emma McIntyre and Tori Schmidt from Folkways will share proven strategies for planning impactful community events, with a focus on wintertime activities. Learn how to create vibrant, engaging events that foster connection, creativity, and economic vitality. Whether you're aiming to enhance local engagement or spark new traditions, this webinar will provide actionable tools to bring your ideas to life.
Starting January 6, 2025, several northern border ports in North Dakota will extend their hours to better serve travelers. The ports at Fortuna, Neche, Noonan, and Walhalla will remain open two additional hours, with new hours ranging from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. These changes, based on traffic patterns monitored by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, are designed to enhance cross-border accessibility. For North Dakota Tourism, this means increased opportunities to attract visitors from Canada, boosting the state's tourism industry and supporting local businesses by making it easier for travelers to explore the region.
North Dakota Tourism is gearing up for 2025 with new creative campaigns, travel guides, and the Official Highway Map. Website traffic hit a record 3 million sessions in 2024, a 35.22% increase. Partners are encouraged to list 2025 events in the Partner Portal and update accessibility details to attract more visitors. Cooperative advertising opportunities include ND Living, email campaigns, social media, and digital ads. Upcoming events include Tourism Day at the Legislature on January 22 and the first 2025 Tourism Chat on January 23. Recent highlights feature global and group travel successes, impactful media collaborations, and visitor stories showcasing North Dakota’s legendary experiences.
This event, hosted by the Commerce Tourism & Marketing Division, Destination Marketing Association of North Dakota, and Visit Minot, will feature inspiring national keynote speakers, valuable educational sessions, networking opportunities, and the prestigious Governor’s Awards for Travel and Tourism.
Register by February 28, 2025, for just $200. After March 1, 2025, the registration fee increases to $250. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate the best of North Dakota’s travel and tourism industry!
This holiday season, Find the Good Life in North Dakota is inspiring former residents to return home, highlighting family gatherings as a perfect reminder of the state’s unmatched lifestyle. Since launching in 2022, the campaign has connected thousands of young families, graduates, veterans, and “boomerangs” to opportunities in industries like healthcare and energy, generating over 120 million impressions and helping individuals like Charles Hopkins and Max and Melissa Otto find their fit in North Dakota. “When North Dakota succeeds in talent attraction, we all win,” said Workforce Development Director Katie Ralston Howe.
|
