Central ND News

The North Dakota Department of Commerce has announced the relaunch of Innovate ND, a program designed to assist entrepreneurs in validating business ideas and promoting growth. The initiative offers up to $50,000 in voucher-based reimbursements for eligible participants.

Innovate ND is structured into two six-month phases, with each phase providing up to $25,000 in reimbursements. Participants are required to complete both phases within a 12-month period.

“Innovate ND is more than funding — it’s a launchpad for scalable, high-impact businesses that can diversify and strengthen North Dakota’s economy,” said Commerce Economic Development and Finance Manager Carla Valentine. “We’re excited to support entrepreneurs who are ready to validate their ideas and bring innovation to the state.”

The program aims to reinforce the state's entrepreneurial environment by focusing on economic diversity and educating participants about lean startup principles and customer identification. It also supports product and market validation through measurable outcomes and encourages the development of scalable businesses with potential for primary sector certification.

To qualify, businesses must be based and headquartered in North Dakota, with at least one founder residing in the state. They must also be in good standing with the North Dakota Secretary of State. Retail, hospitality, and local service-based ventures are not eligible for this program. Applicants need to show evidence of a founding team, a defined problem, a unique value proposition, early customer validation, a prototype or roadmap, a go-to-market strategy, a revenue model, and a 12-month business plan.

More information about application guidelines and program details can be found at https://ndgov.link/InnovateND.