The North Dakota Department of Commerce is highlighting the accomplishments of several North Dakota communities and organizations recognized at the 2026 Mid-America Economic Development Council (Mid-America EDC) Annual Awards, presented Aug. 31-Sept. 2 in Grand Rapids, Michigan.
The annual awards recognize outstanding achievements in economic development across Mid-America EDC’s 13-state region. North Dakota earned four honors this year, recognizing projects that are strengthening communities, creating economic opportunity and advancing innovation across the state.
North Dakota award recipients
Placemaking – Large Population Citizen’s Alley + Downtown Minot Activation Strategy, Minot, North Dakota
Honored for transforming underutilized space into a vibrant community asset, the project reflects Minot’s commitment to community engagement and creative placemaking.
“Citizen’s Alley has become something truly special for downtown Minot, and it’s wonderful to see that work receive recognition at a multi-state level,” said Minot Area Chamber EDC President/CEO Brekka Kramer. “It speaks to the power of community development and what’s possible when people come together around a shared vision.”
“Watching Citizens Alley become a place where people gather - from summer concerts to winter ice skating - is proof that even the most overlooked spaces can become places people return to, again and again,” said Jessica Ackerman from Aksal Group. “The Destination Development Grant from the ND Department of Commerce helped accelerate this project, and we're honored to see that partnership recognized by the Mid-America EDC.”
Overcoming Adversity – Small Population Coal Creek Station – Rainbow Energy Center, Bismarck, North Dakota
Recognized for its response to evolving energy market challenges, Rainbow Energy Center’s work at Coal Creek Station demonstrates resilience and a long-term commitment to supporting regional jobs, communities and energy production.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our employees and partners who worked together to create a strong future for Coal Creek Station,” said Vice President of External Affairs Jessica Bell. “We are proud to preserve high-quality jobs, strengthen the surrounding communities and advance North Dakota’s energy leadership through innovation and long-term investment.”
Project of the Year – Small Population Applied Digital – Ellendale, North Dakota, City of Ellendale & Applied Digital
The Applied Digital project was recognized for its economic impact, community investment, partnerships and technological innovation in Ellendale.
“Ellendale is honored to be recognized with the Project of the Year award,” said Ellendale Mayor Don Flaherty. “Applied Digital’s investment represents a turning point for our community, bringing new energy, new jobs and new opportunities. This project shows what is possible when a small town embraces innovation, and we’re grateful to our partners and to Mid-America EDC for highlighting the significance of this work.”
People’s Choice Award Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library – Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Foundation, Medora, North Dakota
Selected by conference attendees, the Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library earned the People’s Choice Award for its vision and anticipated long-term economic and cultural impact.
“The Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library is not simply a place to learn about Roosevelt, but a place to learn from him,” said Theodore Roosevelt Presidential Library Executive Director Robbie Lauf. “This award honors our mission to inspire people to dare greatly, think boldly, care deeply and participate fearlessly in the arena.”
Together, the four awards highlight the range of economic and community development taking place across North Dakota, with projects representing downtown revitalization, energy, technology and tourism.
“We’re proud of the North Dakota communities and projects recognized at this year’s Mid-America EDC Awards,” said Commerce Economic Development & Finance Director Rich Garman. “These projects show the creativity and collaboration driving economic growth across our state.”
Select award recipients will further share their work through webinars hosted by Mid-America EDC. More information about the 2026 award entries is available at www.midamericaedc.org.