The ND250 Commission has awarded a new round of community grants to support projects across North Dakota celebrating the upcoming 250th anniversary of the United States Declaration of Independence.
The ND250 Community Initiatives Grant Program helps organizations and local governments create projects recognizing North Dakota’s role in the nation’s history while encouraging public engagement ahead of the 2026 milestone.
Bill Peterson, who also chairs the commission, said the selected projects highlight the creativity and commitment of communities statewide. He said the initiatives range from educational programs to public celebrations that bring people together to reflect on shared history and the ideals that shaped the country.
Among the grant recipients:
- 31:8 Project received $10,000 for a USA 250th Anniversary Car Show planned for July 3, 2026, on the North Dakota Capitol grounds.
- Alexander Public School received $1,000 for a student field trip to the North Dakota Heritage Center & State Museum.
- Bonanzaville received $3,892 to print replica copies of the Declaration of Independence using an 1890 newspaper press.
- ND Strong received $6,275 to produce a documentary on North Dakota beekeepers, pollinators, and prairie ecosystems supporting American agriculture.
- Nome Eweniversity received $6,275 for a documentary celebrating America’s founding and the 125th anniversary of Nome.
Commission officials said 25 applications were submitted and reviewed by a selection committee before final awards were announced.
By: DNU staff