Destination Development Grant

The 2026 Destination Development Grant – Additional Funding Round is administered by the North Dakota Department of Commerce, Tourism Division. This funding opportunity reopens the state’s Destination Development Grant Program for the 2025–2027 biennium after a new $4 million allocation from the $15 million previously appropriated by the 69th Legislative Assembly. The program is intended to provide substantial support for the development and enhancement of tourism infrastructure across North Dakota, with a specific focus on transformative projects that align with the state’s cultural identity, natural assets, and economic diversification goals. The program seeks to promote long-term sustainability, attract out-of-state visitors, and elevate the overall tourism experience in the state. The Destination Development Grant (DDG) aims to fund capital development and expansion projects that anchor tourism within communities. Eligible projects include construction or rehabilitation of immersive lodging options, culinary or cultural attractions, themed entertainment venues, recreational assets, agritourism experiences, and value-added tourism services. Funding is not intended for early-stage planning or soft programmatic work. Rather, the grant supports infrastructure that directly results in expanded tourism offerings. Competitive projects will demonstrate the potential to attract travelers from over 50 miles away, encourage overnight stays, and offer year-round, multi-use functions that benefit both visitors and residents. The application window for this round runs from February 10, 2026, at 9:00 a.m. CDT to March 10, 2026, at 5:00 p.m. CDT. Applications must be submitted through the official grant portal, which requires up to three business days for access approval. Late applications and those submitted via email or mail are not accepted. Applicants must initiate the portal registration with enough time to complete and submit the application before the deadline. All projects must be completed by June 30, 2027, to remain eligible for reimbursement. Eligible applicants include for-profit businesses, nonprofit organizations, and tourism-related entities operating within state-owned buildings or public properties, provided that the grant funds are used for privately owned assets. State and federal government agencies are not eligible, nor are applicants who have previously received funding under the 2023–2025 or 2025–2027 Destination Development Grant cycles. Ineligible expenses include administrative costs, marketing, staffing, strategic planning, or ongoing operational expenses. Grant funding will cover up to 50% of approved project costs, and a 1:1 match—either cash or in-kind—is required. Strong proposals will highlight distinctive tourism offerings with cultural or historical significance to North Dakota, clear strategies to increase visitation, and detailed plans for sustainability and financial stewardship. Applicants are expected to demonstrate capacity for project execution, provide projected visitor metrics, and present supporting documents such as business plans, financial statements, and community support letters. Projects that leverage additional funding sources, exhibit community alignment, and promote environmental or cultural stewardship will be viewed favorably. Award announcements are scheduled for April 30, 2026. Selected grantees will enter into a formal grant agreement with the Department of Commerce. Grantees must submit quarterly progress reports and monthly visitor statistics through the portal. Final project reports, including narrative updates and photographic documentation, are required at the project’s conclusion. Continued communication with the Tourism Division and participation in the state’s Partner Portal listing are mandatory for all grantees. Failure to comply with reporting and monitoring requirements may result in suspension or forfeiture of funding.

Highlight North Dakota identity, demonstrate visitor draw of 50+ miles, show strong match and timely execution.