BISMARCK, N.D. – The North Dakota Department of Commerce has announced the final round of Rural Catalyst Grant recipients, awarding a combined $2.5 million to nine rural communities across the state. The funding will support locally driven projects aimed at strengthening community vitality and promoting long-term economic development.
In total, 94 applications were submitted, requesting more than $18 million in funding, underscoring strong demand for investment in rural North Dakota. The selected projects reflect a wide range of priorities, from emergency services and health care access to housing, recreation and food security.
The 2026 grant recipients and award amounts are:
Bowman County Fire Department – $500,000
City of Harvey, SMP St. Alosius Oncology Center – $500,000
Red River Regional Council, Reyleck Project – $500,000
City of Walhalla, outdoor aquatic facility – $465,526
City of Mooreton, residential housing development/redevelopment project – $350,821
City of Lakota, satellite health clinic project – $104,633
City of Edinburg, Market on Main Grocery Store – $49,652
Roosevelt Custer Regional Council, Home on the Range – $25,000
South Central Dakota Regional Council, James River Senior Citizens Center, Inc. – $4,368
“What makes the Rural Catalyst Grant so valuable is that it helps communities that have ideas but not necessarily the funds to take the next step forward,” said Gwen Crawford, City Administrator for the City of Valley City and Rural Catalyst Grant reviewer. “Whether it’s supporting new projects, adding on to projects that were already in place or helping the community fill a vital need, this program helps remove barriers that can slow progress and gives community members the support they need to turn good ideas into real projects that strengthen their local economy and quality of life.”
“These projects represent the kind of thoughtful, community-driven investments that create lasting impact in rural North Dakota,” said Nicolette Blumler, Rural Catalyst Grant Administrator. “By pairing state funding with strong local matches, we’re ensuring these efforts are not only catalytic, but sustainable. We’re proud to support communities as they turn strategic priorities into tangible improvements that enhance quality of life and economic resilience.”
The Rural Catalyst Grant program was established through legislation passed by the North Dakota Legislature in Senate Bill 2390 (SB 2390). Each award requires a one-for-one community non-state match, ensuring local investment and long-term sustainability. With this round of awards, all available funds under SB 2390 have now been distributed, marking the conclusion of the program’s funding cycle.
More information on the Rural Catalyst Grant program.
