Rural Catalyst Grant

The Rural Catalyst Grant program is administered by the North Dakota Department of Commerce and was established through SB 2390 to address the needs of rural communities in the state. The program is designed to support projects that aim to improve quality of life and stimulate economic development across North Dakota’s rural areas. Funded through a one-time appropriation of $2.5 million from the state’s Strategic and Investment and Improvements Fund, this initiative operates on a reimbursement basis and requires a 1:1 non-state funded match. Eligible match sources include public, private, nonprofit, and in-kind contributions. Targeting municipalities, counties, tribal entities, regional councils, and other political subdivisions, the program defines rural as communities with populations of 4,500 or fewer. Notably, at least half of the total grant funds are reserved for communities with populations under 1,500. Projects must focus on areas such as access to healthcare, education, housing, transportation, or economic revitalization, including efforts to preserve or reopen rural grocery stores. The initiative promotes collaboration among local organizations and supports innovative, scalable solutions tailored to rural challenges. Allowable uses of funds include slum or blight remediation, community health initiatives, library and museum development, placemaking, recreational and transportation projects, and other efforts aimed at enhancing community vitality. Ineligible expenses include applicant debt, planning grants, childcare, operating expenses, salaries, and various fees such as legal, permit, and inspection costs. Projects must be completed within 18 months of award, with all reimbursements finalized by June 30, 2027. The application process is conducted exclusively through the Department of Commerce’s online portal. The first application round opens on October 28, 2025, and closes on January 7, 2026. If funds remain, a second round will open on March 2, 2026, and close on April 15, 2026. Required documents include detailed project plans, cost justifications, and a resolution of support from the relevant local governing body. Submissions must be original and reflective of the applicant's own work; AI-generated content may be disqualified. Applications are reviewed by a 13-member Rural Catalyst Committee, including representatives from the Department of Commerce, regional councils, the legislature, and the Governor’s office. Evaluation criteria include the project’s potential impact on economic development and quality of life, community buy-in, sustainability, replicability, and completeness. Grantees will be notified of funding decisions within 30 days of the round’s close. Ongoing compliance includes quarterly progress reporting through the portal, onsite or desk audits, and submission of a final evaluation. Projects are subject to follow-up evaluations for up to three years post-award to measure success and return on investment. Questions may be directed to Nicolette Blumler at the North Dakota Department of Commerce by phone at 701-328-7924.

Ensure all documentation is accurate, original, and not AI-generated. Match documentation must include proof and breakdown of in-kind or monetary support.