ND ready to disperse workforce grant dollars

It’s called the “Regional Workforce Impact Program.”

Under it, $15 million is being made available to address workforce needs, by region of the state.

That money comes from the American Recovery Plan Act, and was appropriated by the Legislature during its November special session. And the grant is administered by the state Commerce Department.

Commerce Workforce Director Katie Ralston Howe says this is not meant to be a “one size fits all” program.  Ralston Howe says this grant program will allow the state to address its workforce issues in a number of ways.  “This program was developed in conversations with employers and economic developers who said we have this idea for addressing workforce challenges.  Up until now we didn’t have a mechanism to fund these ideas.”

Governor Doug Burgum says “Workforce remains our No. 1 barrier to economic growth in North Dakota. Strengthening our workforce through innovative, locally driven solutions supported by programs like RWIP will create a pathway to a stronger economy.”

Region 4 which include Grand Forks…Pembina…Walsh…and Nelson Counties will receive $1,71 million dollars.

NDPPR/KNOX