(Fargo, ND) -- The North Dakota Department of Commerce today announced the launch of the Automate ND Grant Program.
The program is described as a "new initiative designed to help North Dakota businesses overcome workforce shortages and increase productivity through automation."
The program is funded with $5 million from the American Rescue Plan Act.
It will provide grants of up to $500,000 to North Dakota Primary Sector Certified businesses, including those in industries such as manufacturing and agricultural processing.
The grants can be used to cover up to 50% of the cost of purchasing or leasing machinery, equipment, and software for automation projects.
"North Dakota businesses are facing a significant workforce shortage," Head of Investments and Innovation for Commerce Shayden Akason said. "The Automate ND Grant Program will help these businesses invest in automation technologies that can increase their productivity and allow them to expand without needing to hire additional staff."
