Adrian JTLDR:
A coalition of five North Dakota entities has been awarded up to $160 million in federal funding over the next 10 years to support innovation in agriculture technology (AgTech). The organizations, including North Dakota State University and the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Foundation, were recognized for their collaborative partnership and ability to address food insecurity and expand economic opportunities. The funding will be used to tap into existing networks and strengths in North Dakota and support new ideas, entrepreneurs, and businesses in the AgTech sector.
A coalition of five North Dakota entities has won up to $160 million in federal funding for agriculture technology (AgTech) innovation. The organizations, including North Dakota State University, the Tribal College System, the Fargo Moorhead West Fargo Chamber Foundation, the Greater Fargo Moorhead Economic Development Corporation (EDC), and Grand Farm, were recognized as winners in the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF) Regional Innovation Engines program. The funding will support programs that address food insecurity, expand economic opportunities, and introduce new crops to the market.
The award highlights the state’s talent pool in AgTech and the unique collaborative partnership that was formed to demonstrate North Dakota’s contributions to feeding the world. The funding will empower farmers and ranchers with tools to strengthen their operations, reduce costs, and improve yields. It will also spur growth in industries such as the tech sector and manufacturing. The collaboration between the five organizations in the FARMS coalition demonstrates the statewide reach in AgTech and the ability to bring innovations to market with the most robust tech transfer infrastructure in the state.
The funding, potentially up to $160 million over 10 years, will be used to tap into existing networks and strengths in North Dakota and offer a platform for new ideas, entrepreneurs, and businesses. It aims to expand the frontiers of technology across the nation and support innovation in geographies that have not previously benefited from technology advancement. The funding has the potential to transform the regional workforce, particularly for those pursuing careers in agriculture, engineering, IT, AI, data science, and more.
The coalition’s win was celebrated by U.S. Senator John Hoeven and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, who praised the state’s talent and contributions to the AgTech industry. The funding will ensure a high-quality and low-cost food supply for American consumers and maintain a competitive edge in the global marketplace.
