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Welcome to our one-stop hub for all Commerce highlights! In an ever-evolving business landscape, staying ahead of the curve is paramount. This is your go-to source for the latest news, trends, insights, and highlights from your Commerce team. Whether you're a local business, tourism partner, community leader, or simply someone intrigued by the dynamics of global trade, we've got you covered. Your journey to staying up to date starts here.
April 17, 2025
State Data Hub Live
Commerce has launched the State Data Hub, a new online resource designed to make data easier to access and use across North Dakota. The site features interactive dashboards from the U.S. Census Bureau, including 2020 Census and American Community Survey data, with 2023 results coming soon.
The Hub will grow to include economic indicators and insights across topics like agriculture, energy, housing and tourism. It also features data stories that bring numbers to life—starting with “Growth in North Dakota: Population Trends Over a Decade.”
Learn more about the State Data Hub
Commerce Supports H-2A Workforce Event in Northeast North Dakota
Commerce recently participated in an H-2A workforce event held in Grafton, focused on addressing local workforce needs through collaboration and community engagement. Commerce Workforce Deputy Director Janna Pastir and Global Talent Administrator Paige Kuntz joined regional partners for the discussion and later toured the community. The event provided a valuable opportunity to connect with stakeholders and explore workforce strategies tailored to northeast North Dakota.
Learn more about Workforce Development
Canadian Visitation Softens, Strategy Adjusts
Border crossings from Canada were down 14.2% for the quarter, with both vehicle and passenger decreases in February and March – the first decreases in Canadian visitation since the pandemic. Similar losses are being reported for other border states. The U.S. Travel Association estimates that a Canadian boycott of travel to the U.S. could lead to a $2 billion loss in spending and 14,000 job losses. For North Dakota, visitation losses in February and March are estimated to equal more than $8 million in lost visitor spending.
As a result of the current Canadian sentiment on traveling to the U.S., marketing plans are responsively evolving. Timing of digital campaigns has been adjusted and social media advertising in Canada has been paused.
Website traffic from Canada was down 30% for the quarter.
North Dakota Boosts Energy Efficiency
Commerce's Energy Conservation Grant (ECG) program has awarded over $1.1 million to local governments, supporting projects like LED lighting, insulation, and window upgrades in public buildings. This investment is reducing energy costs and creating safer, more comfortable environments in schools and municipal facilities. With funding available for nonfederal public buildings, the ECG program empowers communities to prioritize energy efficiency and long-term sustainability.
Learn more about Community Services
Upcoming Events
Free webinar: Recruiting International Teachers
Tuesday, April 23 | 3:30–4:30 p.m. CDT
North Dakota public schools are invited to a free webinar on recruiting qualified teachers from the Philippines using H-1B and J-1 visas. The session will feature a local recruiter and a U.S. immigration attorney, with insights on successful models already in place in North Dakota schools.
North Dakota Travel Industry Conference
April 28–30 | Minot, N.D.
Tourism professionals from across the state will gather to explore trends, share ideas and shape the future of travel in North Dakota during this annual industry event.
Archived Highlights
Commerce Newsletter is the bi-monthly e-newsletter from the North Dakota Department of Commerce.
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