Mission: To champion the growth and diversification of North Dakota’s economy through professional development, networking and advocacy.

 

Vision: A North Dakota filled with vibrant communities and economic opportunities for all.

 

2027 EDND LEGISLATIVE PRIORITIES

  1. Housing

Support flexible housing development tools that expand housing development and availability by helping communities prepare sites, extend infrastructure, and close financing gaps for housing needed to meet workforce demands and support community growth.

  1. Workforce

Invest in locally and regionally driven workforce strategies through flexible funding that enables communities, employers, and partners to recruit, develop and retain talent, expand employer-led training opportunities, and address barriers such as childcare capacity.

  1. Business Development and Economic Competitiveness

Preserve and strengthen effective economic development, business financing, and incentive programs that support both existing businesses and new ventures while reinforcing North Dakota’s pro-business climate and economic competitiveness.

  1. Economic Development Infrastructure

Provide stable, predictable, and flexible funding for water, wastewater, transportation, and other critical infrastructure needed to support economic development projects.

  1. Regional Development Capacity

Provide dedicated, ongoing funding for regional councils to help communities and regions plan, secure resources, and implement projects and development initiatives.

North Dakota

70th Legislative Assembly

Legislative quick links

2027 EDND LEGISLATIVE VALUES

Workforce Availability and Development

North Dakota’s ability to maximize its economic potential depends on the capacity of businesses to attract, develop, and retain a skilled and reliable workforce. Workforce needs differ across communities and industries, so effective solutions should be shaped by local and regional employers and partners. EDND supports:

  • Locally and regionally driven workforce strategies that help employers recruit, develop, and retain workers.
  • Partnerships between employers and educational institutions that connect training and career pathways to workforce needs.
  • Training that is accessible, affordable, and responsive to employer and regional needs while allowing regions to respond to their own industries.
  • Investments that expand childcare availability and strengthen the childcare workforce.
  • Workforce housing tools that help communities attract and retain workers.
  • Statewide talent attraction efforts that communities can adapt to their local opportunities.

 

Economic Diversification

North Dakota’s economic strength depends on helping existing businesses grow while creating opportunities for new businesses and industries. Communities need financing and support that can respond to different markets and stages of business development. EDND supports:

  • Investments in applied research, innovation, and commercialization that create opportunities for businesses and strengthen North Dakotas’ economy.
  • Access to capital for entrepreneurs, start-ups, and businesses pursuing new products or markets.
  • Flexible, sustainable financing programs that help businesses expand, adapt, and enhance competitiveness.
  • Locally and regionally driven efforts to develop emerging industries and build on each region’s existing strengths.

 

Infrastructure Development

Reliable infrastructure is essential for business growth, housing development, and quality of life. Communities need predictable funding and flexibility to address their most pressing needs. EDND supports:

  • Stable, flexible funding for water, wastewater, and other infrastructure needed for business expansion.
  • Partnerships and financing tools that help communities plan for and complete infrastructure projects for housing and community growth.
  • A strong statewide transportation network that moves goods and connects workers to jobs.
  • The expansion of natural gas distribution to all corners of the state, as well as natural gas capture, and the infrastructure needed to put captured gas to productive use.

 

Community Development

Strong communities create opportunities for residents and businesses and help North Dakota attract and retain workers. Communities need flexible tools and access to expertise to turn local priorities into completed projects. EDND supports:

  • Flexible programs and funding help communities grow, revitalize existing spaces, and improve quality of life.
  • Dedicated, ongoing funding for regional councils that help communities identify priorities, develop projects, secure funding, and carry projects through implementation.
  • Policies and investments that strengthen North Dakota’s military installations and missions and help surrounding communities meet the workforce, housing, infrastructure, and quality-of-life needs of service members, families, and civilian employees.

 

Pro-Business Climate

A competitive business environment helps North Dakota businesses start, grow, and create jobs. State policies and programs should provide predictability while allowing businesses and communities to respond to changing needs. EDND supports:

  • A competitive, predictable tax structure that encourages business investment and growth.
  • Flexible financing and incentive tools that help businesses start, expand, and remain competitive.
  • Clear, efficient regulations that protect the public while reducing unnecessary delays and barriers to doing business.

 

For more information, contact EDND at 701-355-4458