Oil & Gas Research Program
Oil & Gas Research Program supports researchers and industry partners in education, research, development, and marketing to advance North Dakota’s oil and gas resources and reduce environmental footprints.
Funder: North Dakota Industrial Commission
Due Dates: November 1, 2026 (Recurring application deadline) | June 1, 2027 (Application deadline)
Funding Amounts: Grants cover up to 50% of total project costs, within legislative appropriations; duration set by contract
Summary: Supports research, education, development, and marketing advancing North Dakota’s oil and natural gas resources and industry.
Key Information: Site-specific feasibility applicants must own, control, or have a clear and firm commitment to ownership or control of the project or facility.
Description
The North Dakota Industrial Commission’s Oil & Gas Research Program is a state/industry program established in 2003. It supports education, research, development, and marketing concerning oil and natural gas resources, including issues affecting exploration, production, transportation, processing, and refining. The Oil and Gas Research Council reviews applications and recommends funding to the Commission.
The program aims to develop North Dakota’s resources, encourage efficient energy use, advance environmentally sound exploration and production, and improve public understanding of the industry. Priorities include attracting industry investment, preserving and creating jobs, improving recovery and production, identifying new technologies and resources, expanding markets for oil, gas, and byproducts, reducing environmental footprints, and developing baseline knowledge for future work. Dedicated policies also cover enhanced oil recovery and clean natural gas capture.
