ADVANCING REGIONAL ISSUES
Narrative Change
North Dakota is a land of opportunity and it is our goal to share those opportunities and help you see them as well.
In 2020, Strengthen ND was one of 29 organizations from across North America selected to receive $100,000 from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation’s Voices of Economic Opportunity Grand Challenge to support narrative change in rural North Dakota. With our narrative change work, we are building empathy and create acceptance of newcomers, especially newcomers who look differently than and have backgrounds different from the majority of North Dakotans, by rural community members. By highlighting a shared ancestral and/or lived experience of immigrating/migrating to a new country/state for opportunity (i.e. past homesteading heritage of many rural North Dakotans; current migrants and immigrants), our work will change the narrative around newcomers and the three components of economic mobility (autonomy; economic success; being valued in the community). In partnership with AgWeek, we served as messengers for both newcomers and homecomers finding opportunity in North Dakota.
Harvey, ND
Alexander, ND
Kenmare, ND
Bowman, ND
Crosby, ND
Ashley, ND
Dickinson, ND
Gardner, ND
Celebrating the 2025 Bush Prize Winners!
Inspiring change and fostering leadership within communities takes commitment, vision, and dedication. This year, the Bush Prize for Community Innovation recognizes two outstanding organizations that exemplify these values and are making significant strides in their...
Empowering Rural Communities: 5 Strategies for Sustainable Growth
Sustainable growth is important for growing communities and is attainable with the right strategies and commitment. Understanding how to empower rural communities is vital for fostering economic and social advancement. By implementing these proven strategies, you'll...
Celebrating and Supporting Diversity in North Dakota with Strengthen ND
North Dakota is known for its vast landscapes, rich history, and tight-knit communities. But there's another story unfolding here—one of diversity and inclusion. As Strengthen ND, we are proud to be part of this movement, championing efforts to celebrate and support...
6 Ways to Get Involved in the AmeriCorps Impact Makers Program
Are you a young adult eager to make a difference in your community while gaining valuable skills and experience? The AmeriCorps Impact Makers (AIM) program is an incredible opportunity to do just that. Designed for individuals aged 18-22, AIM allows participants to...
Collaboration Between Government and Non-Profits: Key to Community Resilience
In a world increasingly marked by unpredictability and fast-paced change, building community resilience has never been more crucial. From natural disasters to economic disruptions, resilient communities can withstand shocks and emerge stronger. A key component in...
7 Powerful Strategies for Strengthening Rural Infrastructure in North Dakota
Rural infrastructure is the backbone of thriving communities across North Dakota. From roads and bridges to broadband internet and energy grids, these foundational elements are crucial for agriculture, commerce, and daily life. As rural needs change, strategies to...
Strengthening North Dakota’s Agricultural Future: 6 Ways Strengthen ND Supports Local Food Producers
Agriculture is the backbone of North Dakota’s economy, and the need for sustainable and innovative practices has never been greater. Farmers, agricultural innovators, and local community leaders are at the forefront of this movement. Strengthen ND is here to support...
AARP Awards Grants to Seven Organizations in North Dakota as Part of Nationwide Program to Make Communities More Livable
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: June 26, 2024 MEDIA CONTACT:Marnie Piehl, Communications Director, AARP North Dakota 701-391-6534 or mpiehl@aarp.org AARP Awards Grants to Seven Organizations in North Dakota as Part of Nationwide Program to Make Communities More Livable ...
Future Prospects: The Role of Bitcoin Mining in Agriculture
Bitcoin mining and sustainable agriculture might sound like an odd pairing, but they have the potential to revolutionize the agricultural sector. Here's how: 1. Energy Utilization Bitcoin mining operations can be energy-intensive, but they also have the flexibility to...
Top 10 Resources for Nonprofits in North Dakota
Running a nonprofit organization can be incredibly rewarding yet challenging. Fortunately, there are plenty of resources available to help nonprofits in North Dakota thrive. Here’s a list of the top 10 resources that nonprofits in North Dakota should know about: 1....