Top 10 | September 2025 | Grand Forks EDC

1. und hits enrollment milestone: 15,844

The University of North Dakota has hit a record-breaking fall 2025 enrollment of 15,844 students. A 5.49% increase from the fall 2024 enrollment. President Andrew Armacost shared that the growth is a result of attractive programs, affordability and scholarship offerings, modernized learning and living spaces, and an environment cultivated for student success. There has been a 30% increase in presidential scholarships and an over 30% increase in military-affiliated students in the freshman class. The enrollment dashboard for the North Dakota University System places UND as the top destination for North Dakota Students. Congratulations to all who have put in work to make this happen!

2. nctc realizes 15% enrollment growth

Northland Community and Technical College in East Grand Forks has experienced a 15% increase in student enrollment from fall 2024 to 2025. The increase is a direct result of the strategic initiatives they have taken to increase enrollment, expand access, strengthen partnerships, and enhance the student experience. President Shari Olson stated that there is a strong demand for programs that lead directly to the workforce and meaningful careers, and they are committed to providing that and transforming futures through innovation and excellence. Congratulations, Northland, on this achievement!

3. agristo begins groundwork

Agristo has begun the groundwork for its potato processing plant in Grand Forks! “We have started making ground improvements to prepare the site foundation before winter hits,” said Ruben Devos, Agristo Grand Forks Project Director, in a press release. “Our goal is to begin commissioning in June 2027, when we will start production trials to adjust the efficiency of the processing line. In the meantime, we will be forming our U.S.-based leadership team to ensure a smooth startup when the facility is ready for commercial production.”

To meet the demand of the processing plan, the Agristo team has been meeting with growers and agronomists to map out acreage and storage needs for the facility in preparation for its 2028 opening.

4. und breaks ground on stem complex, cuts ribbon on merrifield hall

On Friday, September 18th, UND broke ground on phase 1 of the new STEM Complex! This facility will combine the curriculum from the UND College of Engineering and Mines with the College of Arts and Sciences to educate students in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. These are the skills that are driving much of our region’s growth in the technology sector. The North Dakota legislature approved $57.4 million for phase 1, but required UND to raise $25 million in private contributions to unlock it. This goal was reached earlier this year. Phase 2 is around the corner with a $55.6 million commitment from the North Dakota Legislature; however, a $25 million private fundraising effort is needed to unlock those resources. UND is 1/3 of the way to the goal. Congratulations, UND!

5. sda launches first tranche 1 satellite controlled at gfafb

The Space Development Agency (SDA) marked a major milestone this month with the successful launch of its first Tranche 1 (T1) Transport Layer satellites aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 from Vandenberg Space Force Base. This deployment of 21 satellites is the first step toward building a resilient, low-Earth orbit network designed to provide high-speed, secure communications and advanced missile tracking for the U.S. warfighter. The achievement underscores the rapid pace of innovation driving national defense, and the Grand Forks Region is at the center of this effort. Grand Forks Air Force Base is home to one of only two SDA Space Operations Centers nationwide, giving our region a critical role in operating and managing this groundbreaking constellation. With 154 satellites planned in the full T1 constellation, Grand Forks will play a leading role in advancing U.S. space capabilities while complementing the region’s leadership in UAS research, development, and operations. This dual strength in space and unmanned systems makes the Grand Forks Region a national hub for next-generation defense technologies, showcasing our region’s leadership in both the UAS and space industries.

6. edc hosts minneapolis fed representative for roundtable discussion

On Friday, September 5th, the EDC hosted Ron Wirtz, Director of Regional Outreach for the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis, for a conversation with regional business leaders. Ron shared valuable insights on the North Dakota economy. His presentation included timely data and survey results from attendees, sparking an engaging discussion about regional economic trends. These outreach sessions play a vital role in informing the Minneapolis Fed about economic conditions across the Upper Midwest. The insights gathered contribute to reports that help shape national monetary policy – including decisions on interest rates. We’re grateful to Ron and the Minneapolis Fed for their continued partnership in supporting our region’s economic growth.

7. gfk awarded $15 million for infrastructure upgrades

The Federal Aviation Administration awarded $15 million to Grand Forks International Airport (GFK) for upgrades! The funds will support the reconstruction of the primary runway and taxiway pavement and lighting upgrades. The upgrades are part of a series being completed in phases with an overall cost of $60 million. With GFK consistently ranking as one of the top 25 busiest airports in the country, infrastructure upgrades are essential to keep up.

8. altru sports complex receives preliminary approval for added basketball courts, training turf

On Monday, September 22nd, the Grand Forks City Council provided preliminary approval for the second phase of the Altru Sports Complex, which includes basketball courts and sports training turf. The proposed designs include four basketball courts that can convert to eight volleyball or middle school basketball courts, allowing more tournaments to be brought to the region, generating economic activity. To help attract the tournaments, Visit Greater Grand Forks and the Park District are working to partner to create an event manager position that would assist. Final authorization to move ahead on the schematic design of the facility addition will happen at the City Council meeting on Monday, October 6th.

9. gf is cooler promotes workforce retention at und career fair

Greater Grand Forks: Way Cooler than You Think! had an exhibitor booth at the UND Career Fairs on September 23rd & 24th. The booth highlighted companies and careers in the Grand Forks Region. Attendance at the career fair allowed the brand to interface with hundreds of students. 82 students subscribed to the What’s Cooler Today newsletter, where they will receive regular updates about Grand Forks careers, internships, and happenings.

10. lund appointed to nd economic development foundation board

Governor Armstrong invited EDC President & CEO Keith Lund to join the North Dakota Economic Development Foundation Board. The foundation, established by the legislature, is charged with providing private sector guidance and oversight of the state’s economic development efforts. Lund shared, “I am honored to represent the Grand Forks region and serve the state of North Dakota in this capacity.”

11. edc staff represent gf region at national conferences

Hatcher Attends Commercial UAV Conference

From September 2nd to 4th, EDC Business Development Manager Kevin Hatcher attended the Commercial UAV Expo. The expo featured 225 exhibitors and 4,000+ attendees from both national and international backgrounds. Hatcher re-engaged with prospects from past interactions and conferences and met with new UAS company candidates for the Grand Forks ecosystem.

Maliskey Attends IEDC Conference

EDC Marketing & Communications Manager Mark Maliskey attended the International Economic Development Council Annual Conference in Detroit from September 14th to 17th. At the conference, Maliskey was able to learn more about industry trends, benchmark programs, and network with economic developers from around the world.

InternGF spring 2026 applications are open! InternGF is a program that connects businesses with talented UND students to provide internships. Receive up to $3,500 to offset the cost of an intern’s wages. The priority deadline is October 31st.