We’ve taken our pioneer spirit to a new level, leading the development of a UAS ecosystem that is the most robust in the country. Our region had the foresight to establish expertise in the industry when it was in its infancy and today, the strength of our vision is your advantage. We are the nation’s UAS trailblazer with many firsts including the first statewide BVLOS (beyond visual line of sight) network (Vantis), first UAS pilot undergraduate program, and first UAS business and aviation park.
Grand Forks is a collaborative community: supporting the industry and engaging at all levels including federal and state, with leaders positioned to influence UAS integration policies.
North Dakota has invested over $40 million for the construction of Vantis, a single network for multiple users, that will enable state-wide BVLOS (beyond visual line of sight) flights.
Grandy Sky supports small to large UAS operations and testing with access to a 12K’ runway and unencumbered airspace.
The Northern Plains UAS Test Site is partnering with major players in the commercial UAS industry to execute the goals of the FAA’s BEYOND program.
With 50 years of experience in aviation education, training, and research, the University of North Dakota was the first to offer a UAS degree in 2009. The Research Institute for Autonomous Systems works with commercial and government partners at the cutting edge of both UAS and cUAS opportunities.
Northrop Grumman had long viewed the Grand Forks region as an ideal location for autonomous test flight. The open skies of the prairie, the unparalleled UAS ecosystem, and the state and local government’s unflinching industry support made it easy for them to be successful.
“With the ability to couple [growth in technology and innovation] with the real-life operators we have at Grand Forks—as well as the innovation with UND and their educational systems here—we can combine those two forces in a single place,” said Northrop Grumman Global Hawk UAS Vice President and Program Manager Mick Jaggers.
Mobile Recon Systems, a Kentucky manufacturer specializing in heavy-lift drones, moved their headquarters and manufacturing operations to Grand Forks to take advantage of the strong workforce and industry-leading innovation taking place here.
Grand Forks’ signature golf course, King’s Walk, was the site of the August launch of the first fully operational golf course drone delivery system in the U.S. In partnership with Flytrex and Ease Drones, course patrons are able to order food and beverages from the clubhouse restaurant, Eagle’s Crest Bar & Grill, and have items delivered to them on the course.
Stay up to date with the latest information from the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation.
