Innovate ND
Forecasted
Innovate ND from the North Dakota Department of Commerce supports entrepreneurs in validating and scaling innovative, high-growth business ideas through research, prototyping, and expert coaching.
Funder: North Dakota Department of Commerce
Due Dates (Anticipated): May 2027 (application deadline, projected)
Funding Amounts: Up to $50,000 total (two phases of $25,000 each) in reimbursable expenses per participant; program duration up to 12 months.
Summary: Supports North Dakota entrepreneurs in validating and scaling innovative business ideas through reimbursable funding and structured coaching.
Key Information: Voucher-based reimbursement; eligibility limited to scalable, high-growth North Dakota businesses (not retail or local services).
Description
The Innovate ND program, administered by the North Dakota Department of Commerce, is designed to accelerate the growth of innovative, scalable businesses across North Dakota. Through a voucher-based reimbursement structure, the program provides up to $50,000 per participant to support activities such as customer and market research, prototype development, and business model validation. The program operates in two phases—each offering up to $25,000 in reimbursable expenses—and is delivered through regional Entrepreneur Centers that provide hands-on coaching and business education. The goal is to help founders validate their business ideas, refine their value propositions, and build ventures with strong economic potential and primary sector growth.
