WATFORD CITY – Minot’s WayFinders program has received the Main Street ND’s 21st Century Workforce Award (Urban) for its efforts to tackle workforce challenges by providing a personalized onboarding experience for community newcomers, the North Dakota Department of Commerce announced Thursday.

The Minot Area Chamber EDC also received the Economic Diversification Award for successfully bringing intermodal service to the region, diversifying the economy and increasing export opportunities for North Dakota producers, according to a release from the Commerce Department.

The Minot Intermodal Facility has seen significant growth in operations since its launch, providing a strategic transportation hub for the state. This facility adds value to North Dakota’s agricultural and manufactured products, strengthening the state’s economy and enhancing market access, the release stated.

Launched in 2023, Minot’s WayFinders connects newcomers with community champions or “WayFinders” who act as their “first friend” and resource. This program has already attracted five new residents and their families, boosting the local economy and school system. With recent grant funding, Minot is now expanding efforts to attract young families, recent graduates, veterans and boomerangs nationwide, according to the Commerce Department.

Other awards presented by Lt. Gov. Tammy Miller during the final day of the Main Street ND Summit in Watford City were:

-Future Leaders Empowerment Award to the Williston Chamber for transforming Lemonade Day into a comprehensive program equipping youth with essential skills for future success. The innovative program offers experiential learning and mentorship opportunities to inspire young entrepreneurs.

-21st Century Workforce Award (Rural) to the Hettinger Mini Chamber for empowering youth to become community leaders. They have completed numerous projects, including fundraising for local initiatives and volunteering for various organizations.

-Healthy, Vibrant Community Award (Rural) to  Bowman County, which recently opened a splash pad and EDGE Activity Complex to offer diverse recreational activities.

-Healthy, Vibrant Community Award (Urban) to Broadway Square, a revitalized public space in Downtown Fargo.

-Smart, Efficient Infrastructure Award to the Sheyenne GRIT program, which has revitalized the community through various initiatives, including purchasing and renovating abandoned properties, improving public spaces and supporting local entrepreneurship.

-Main Street Excellence Award (Rural) to the Hazen Chamber of Commerce for its commitment to member engagement and community outreach, which has contributed to the organization’s high retention rate and positive impact on the local economy.

-Main Street Excellence Award (Urban) to the City of Grand Forks and Grand Forks Region EDC for collaborating to create a welcoming environment for innovative individuals and businesses, focusing on diversifying the local economy. Through partnerships with businesses, arts organizations, and nonprofits, they have developed workforce development programs that highlight the region’s positive aspects.

The Main Street ND Awards are a collaborative effort of the Office of the Governor and Commerce. A selection committee made up of the collaborating agencies and partners judge the entries to make final awards.