The North Dakota Department of Commerce has relaunched Innovate ND, a voucher-based reimbursement program providing up to $50,000 to help entrepreneurs validate business ideas and accelerate growth.
The program is divided into two six-month phases, each offering up to $25,000 in reimbursements, which participants must complete within 12 months.
“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 Carla Valentine, Commerce Economic Development and Finance Manager. “We’re excited to support entrepreneurs ready to validate their ideas and bring innovation to the state.”
The program aims to strengthen the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, educate participants on lean startup principles, support product and market validation, and foster scalable businesses with potential for primary sector certification.
Eligible applicants must be North Dakota-based, with at least one founder residing in the state, and the business must be in good standing with the Secretary of State. Retail, hospitality, and local service-based ventures are not eligible. Applicants must demonstrate a founding team, defined problem, unique value proposition, early customer validation, a prototype or roadmap, go-to-market strategy, revenue model, and a 12-month business plan.