The North Dakota Department of Commerce is pleased to announce the launch of the revised Innovate ND grant reimbursement program designed to help North Dakota entrepreneurs further their business by supporting customer and market research.
"At its core, this grant reimbursement program is dedicated to fostering the growth of our entrepreneurial landscape and promoting economic development and diversity throughout the state. By offering coaching and financial backing, we aim to educate entrepreneurs on the principles of the lean business model canvas, refining their value propositions, and effectively identifying their target customers," stated Commerce Program Director Carla Valentine. "Our ultimate goal is to facilitate the development of new, innovative businesses with the clear potential to achieve primary sector certification."
Program participants are eligible for up to $22,500 in reimbursable expenses to be paid through an Entrepreneur Center. There are two phases offering $7,500 and $15,000, respectively in reimbursable expenses. The participant has up to three months per phase, for a total of six months, to complete all requirements of the program.
The program is administered through four entrepreneur Centers:
- The North Dakota Women’s Business Center, Bismarck
- Jamestown Regional Entrepreneurial Center, Jamestown
- NDSU Research & Technology Park, Fargo
- UND Center for Innovation, Grand Forks
Eligible businesses can find further information and submit an application on Commerce’s website: Innovate ND.