Central ND News

The North Dakota Department of Commerce is reminding organizations that the deadline to apply for the 2025 Destination Development Grant Program is approaching. Applications must be submitted before 5 p.m. CDT on September 2, 2025.

This grant program offers $15 million in funding, allocated by the 69th Legislative Assembly, with the aim of boosting North Dakota’s tourism sector through support for new or expanded attractions and related infrastructure.

Applicants can choose from three funding options. The first option provides $5 million for projects requiring a 1:1 match in cash or in-kind support, reimbursing up to half of eligible expenses. The second option also allocates $5 million but waives the matching requirement for projects unable to secure such funds; applicants must submit a Match Waiver Request. The third option makes available up to $500,000 per project, with a total of $5 million set aside and priority given to rural communities with populations under 20,000. This option also requires a 1:1 match.

Eligible projects include those focused on building or expanding tourism-related attractions—such as recreation, entertainment, historic sites, or cultural venues—and infrastructure that directly supports tourism activity. State- or government-owned facilities generally do not qualify for funding, and grant money cannot be used for staffing costs, strategic planning efforts, marketing campaigns, or ongoing operational expenses.

Applications must include a detailed description of the proposed project, a budget plan, and letters of support submitted online. According to program guidelines, “Strong proposals will demonstrate a clear vision, alignment with tourism goals, and long-term impact.”

More information about the Destination Development Grant can be found at https://ndgov.link/DestinationDevelopment.