Lake Sakakawea features 180 miles of shoreline for fishing & other water sports.
Incentives to Help Your Business Grow in Dunn County
The Dunn County Job Development Authority offers a diverse, high-value array of incentives poised to support new, expanding, and relocating businesses. These grants, reimbursement programs, and other opportunities support local workforce development, worker acquisition, business growth, and more.
Results
The Community Revitalization Program is designed to assist cities in Dunn County with removing dilapidated and blighted properties. By providing financial support for property cleanup and revitalization efforts, the program aims to enhance housing conditions, encourage redevelopment, improve community attractiveness, and attract new residents.
Grant Amount
- The Dunn County Job Development Authority (JDA) will provide funding to cover up to 50% of cleanup costs for city-owned and privately owned blighted properties, up to $200,000 annually.
- The Dunn County JDA’s participation in funding will be based on available resources.
- Funding will be provided through a reimbursement process.
Eligibility
- Incorporated cities and villages within Dunn County.
- Only properties classified as dilapidated or blighted are eligible for funding.
- Dilapidated housing is classified as housing that endangers the residents' life, health, or safety.
- Blighted housing is classified as housing that is uninhabitable, dangerous, abandoned, or poses a threat to the residents.
The Make Dunn County Home Program is a down payment assistance program managed through the Dunn County JDA. The program provides down payment grants, structured as forgivable loans, to home buyers purchasing or building within Dunn County. Qualifying homes must be financed through a North Dakota lender, and the home must be the participant's primary residence. The program is not income-based. Instead, it focuses on encouraging people to live and love the community where they work.
Essential and startup business programs include three different grants for eligible businesses to explore. Each grant supports the creation, expansion, and stability of small businesses in Dunn County, contributing to job creation, economic diversification, and business growth. Businesses can apply for multiple grants and grant types based on needs.
1. Essential and Startup Business Grant
- Up to $10,000 with a 1:1 match.
- Fixed startup costs such as rent, mortgage payments, operating insurance, and city services.
- Requires approval from Dunn County JDA Board.
2. Professional Services Grant
- Up to $5,000 for professional services in the first year of business. No match is required.
- Legal services, accounting, business consulting, marketing consulting, etc.
- Requires approval from Dunn County JDA Board.
3. Marketing Grant Program
- Up to $2,000 per year with a 3:1 match, over three years (for a total of up to $6,000) for branding and rebranding efforts, digital marketing campaigns, website development and SEO improvements, long-term marketing strategies, such as billboard or regional/national media advertising.
- One-time funding up to $1,000 with a 1:1 match for local print and radio advertising, promotional materials (brochures, flyers, business cards), social media marketing and paid online ads, small website updates or basic digital marketing services.
- Dunn County JDA Director approval required.
Eligible Applicants
- Businesses must be located in Dunn County.
- Priority is given to businesses considered essential to local economic diversification.
- The business must demonstrate economic feasibility and job creation potential.
- Startups and existing businesses looking to expand are eligible.
Funded through the Dunn County Development Fund, the Interest Buy-Down Program is designed to assist businesses, childcare facilities, affordable housing projects, farmers, and other entities by reducing loan interest rates. The program works in partnership with local lenders and the Bank of North Dakota through Dakota's Flex PACE, PACE, and various sector-specific options to support a range of critical industries and services in Dunn County.
Flex PACE
Eligible Projects
- Businesses
- Childcare facilities
- Affordable housing projects
Usage
Funds can be used to purchase real property, equipment, and certain working capital needs (excluding debt refinancing or relocation within ND).
Interest Buydown Amount
- Up to $200,000 for businesses.
- Up to $300,000 for non-residential childcare projects, new or expanding.
- Up to $500,000 for new affordable multi-family housing units.
Community Match
The local community will match the buydown amount at a designated level set by the Bank of North Dakota.
PACE
Eligible Projects
- Primary sector businesses, as defined by NDCC 1-01-49 and certified by the North Dakota Department of Commerce.
- For businesses that create new wealth by selling products or services outside North Dakota or offering previously unavailable products or services within the state.
Usage
Funds can be used to purchase real property, equipment, and certain working capital needs (excluding debt refinancing or relocation within ND).
Interest Buydown
Helps expand the economic base by assisting businesses with job creation and investment.
Tier-Based Funding
- Determined by the number of jobs created.
- Up to $500,000 per biennium per borrower.
Ag PACE
- Eligible Projects
- Non-traditional agricultural activities for farmers and ranchers.
- Manufacturing.
- Processing and value-added processing.
- Targeted services industries.
Agriculture Diversification and Development (ADD) Fund
Eligible Projects
- Food production and processing facilities.
- Feed or pet food processing facilities.
- Commodity processing facilities.
- Agriculture product manufacturer.
- Animal production facilities.
Envest
Eligible Projects
- Purchase shares in ag processing plant intended to process North Dakota products.
- Purchase of equity shares in a North Dakota feedlot or dairy operation that feeds a byproduct of an ethanol or biodiesel facility.
- For more information on Ag PACE, ADD, or Envest please contact Dunn County JDA.
Program details
Payback Terms
- Borrowers may qualify for the full eligible buydown as allowable by the Bank of North Dakota.
- If the borrower remains in good standing on the payback, Dunn County JDA may grant the last $5,000 of the community payback.
- There will be no interest on the community payback.
Application and Approval Process
- Applications must be made within the first 12 months of starting business operations or expansion.
- A detailed business plan, including an executive summary and financial projections, is required.
- Applications can be made through the Dunn County JDA and will be reviewed by the full board.
- The Dunn County JDA Board will review and approve applications based on community needs and the impact of the business.
Funding and Repayment
- Approved applications will be required to repay 100% of the community portion of the interest buydown.
- No repayment is required for the Bank of North Dakota portion.
- Repayment begins at the end of the buydown term, and must be completed within the negotiated terms.
Repayment Schedule
- Amounts under $25,000: Repayment over 60 months following the buydown term.
- Amounts over $25,000: Repayment between 6-10 years, depending on the amount.
Funding Terms
- Maximum Flex PACE buy down for:
- 5 years on business and equipment.
- 10 years on real estate, if funds are available.
- PACE project terms will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
Funding Frequency
Businesses or organizations may apply for funding once per calendar year.
Terms and Conditions
- Applicants will be required to sign a Business Incentive Agreement and Payback Agreement acknowledging compliance with the program's terms and conditions.
- Application to the program does not guarantee funding.
- Dunn County JDA will have the authority to approve, disapprove, or make changes as necessary.
- Dunn County JDA reserves the right to request additional information as needed.
Funded by the Dunn County Development Fund, the Revolving and Bridge Loan funds can be utilized to secure a key element in business financing. The Revolving Loan is designed to provide financial support to qualifying business owners in Dunn County seeking alternative or gap financing. The fund targets small businesses and startups to help bridge financing gaps for projects, expansions, or new ventures. The Bridge Loan Fund provides gap financing for businesses in Dunn County that have secured a lead lender, but need additional financing to close the gap. This fund is intended for larger, more strategic projects that contribute to job creation and economic growth in the county.
Revolving Loan Fund
Loan terms
- Loan amounts: Up to $25,000.
- Interest rate: 2%.
- Repayment term: Maximum of 60 months.
- 50% project cost requirement.
- Personal guarantee.
- UCC filing for loans over $10,000.
Eligible Borrowers
- Businesses located in Dunn County.
- Projects must demonstrate a significant impact on the community and the region.
- Must employ 1-10 people or be a new venture.
Eligible Use of Funds
- Business start-up or expansion costs.
- Purchase of real estate.
- Equipment purchases.
- Working capital.
Standard Terms
The loan committee and the applicant will determine loan terms and start dates based on the project's specifics.
Approval Process
- A completed application and documentation demonstrating the borrower’s ability to meet the loan’s terms and conditions are required.
- All applications will be reviewed and approved by the Loan Committee.
Special Considerations
- A security agreement will secure loans, and the borrower must provide a personal guarantee.
- Applicants must demonstrate a clear understanding of the project’s market area, sustainability, and regional impact.
- Application can be found at the bottom of the page
Bridge Loan Fund
Loan terms
- Loan amounts: Up to $150,000.
- Interest rate: +/- 2% of the Bank of North Dakota Prime Rate.
- Repayment term: 7-10 years.
- Varying degrees of participation based on job development, priority level, and project impact.
- Security agreement required.
- Personal guarantee(s) required.
- Collateral may be required.
Eligible Borrowers
- Businesses with a lead lender in place and seeking additional financing.
- Businesses located in Dunn County.
- Projects must demonstrate a significant impact on the community and the region.
- Must employ 1-10 employees or be a new venture.
Eligible Use of Funds
The Bridge Loan Fund can be used to finance major business projects, including:
- Business expansions.
- Equipment and real estate purchases.
- Large-scale developments that create jobs or have a significant community impact.
Standard Terms
The loan committee and the applicant will determine loan terms and start dates based on the project's specifics.
Approval Process
- A completed application and documentation demonstrating the borrower’s ability to meet the loan’s terms and conditions are required.
- All applications will be reviewed by the Loan Committee, which will make recommendations to the Dunn County JDA Full Board.
- Loans exceeding $100,000 require full board approval.
- The committee will determine loan terms, interest rates, and start dates in collaboration with the borrower.
Special Considerations
- A security agreement will secure loans, and the borrower must provide a personal guarantee.
- Applicants must demonstrate a clear understanding of the project’s market area, sustainability, and regional impact.
Creating visually appealing and safe places to shop, eat, and visit is essential for long-term economic development, and the expansion of a tourism economy. The JDA’s Storefront Renovation Grant Program encourages the renovation and occupancy of vacant or dilapidated buildings, in high-traffic areas within designated business districts. The program aims to enhance the appearance and functionality of storefronts to attract more businesses, customers, and investment.
Grant Amount
Maximum Grant: Up to $100,000 per project.
A 4:1 match is required (e.g., for $100,000 in grant funding, the applicant must invest $25,000 of their own funds, for a total of $125,000 in exterior improvements).
Eligible Improvements
- Design or architectural services for the building’s façade
- Rehabilitation or compatible reconstruction of all sides of the building visible to the public
- Removing non-historic elements from building facades
- Awnings and canopies
- Replacement of metal siding and exterior slipcovers (surfaces)Lighting
- Exterior cleaning, painting, and/or paint removal
- Masonry repair and repainting
- Removal/replacement of inappropriate or incompatible exterior finishes or materials
- Recessing/reconfiguring entrances
- Door/window replacement or repair, including automatic doors, only if part of a larger improvement
- Signs (new or replacements) not to exceed 20% of the project
- Structural repairs to the exterior
- Other enhancements to facilities providing significant economic benefit may be considered
Ineligible Activities
- Hardscaping
- Hard surfacing or resurfacing of off-street parking areas
- Sidewalk replacement and repair
- Roof replacement or repair
- Improvements made before Storefront Renovation Grant funds approval
- Refinancing of existing debt
- Inventory and equipment
- Compensating for one’s labor (sweat equity), and any items not explicitly outlined in the detailed scope of work on the application. However, funding is available for building materials and supplies if the applicant opts not to enlist an external contractor.
For applicants intending to execute construction work through their own company, the following criteria must be met:
- Possess a valid contractor license for work performed for others.
- Acquire a project estimate from another licensed contractor or provide evidence of fair value for labor.
- General business operations expenses (payroll, taxes, utilities, maintenance, etc.)
- General maintenance (windows, doors, etc.) that is not part of the larger proposed project.
- Sides of building or property not visible to the public
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
Businesses located within the designated business district (a map will be provided).
Ineligible Applicants
Buildings located within industrial parks or that are industrial in nature.
Application Process
- Applicants must complete the Storefront Renovation Grant Application.
- Plans and estimates for the proposed renovations must be included in the application.
- The application should include a detailed description of the proposed renovations, estimated costs, and a timeline for completion.
- A map designating the eligible business district will be included in the application materials.
Approval Process
All applications will be reviewed by the full Dunn County JDA Board, with decisions based on the project’s potential to improve the overall appearance and functionality of the business district.
Funding and Reimbursement
- Grant funding is provided on a reimbursement basis. Applicants must submit paid receipts and documentation of completed renovations.
- Funds will be paid in a lump sum at the end of the project as a reimbursement of costs incurred.
- A Dunn County JDA representative will visit the site to document the complete project.
- The grant will cover up to $100,000 of the total renovation cost, provided the required 4:1 match is met.
Project Timeline
All renovation projects must be completed, and receipts must be submitted within one year of receiving the grant award.
Funded through the Dunn County Development Fund, the Strategic Investment Program is designed to support businesses and projects that significantly impact the community's life, health, or safety in Dunn County. The program provides flexible funding options for large-scale, high-impact projects that fall outside the scope of other outlined programs.
Funding Amount
- Funding will be determined on a per-need basis, with the full board making decisions based on community impact, and the need justification provided by the applicant.
- Funding may take the form of loans, financial support, or other appropriate mechanisms based on the project’s scope and requirements.
Eligible Projects
- Projects that improve community life, health, or safety.
- Business ventures that address key industry gaps, such as healthcare, workforce development, infrastructure improvements, and more.
- Businesses that provide critical services not currently offered in Dunn County.
- Applicants must provide a clear need justification outlining how the proposed project benefits the community.
- Projects outside the scope of other programs are eligible for consideration under this program.
- Project loans will be subject to terms and conditions of other loan programs, including credit, financial statements, etc.
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Businesses
- Organizations
Ineligible Applicants
- Projects that do not significantly impact community life, health, or safety.
- Applicants who do not meet the need justification criteria.
Need Justification Criteria
Community Impact
- Describe the Problem: Applicants must clearly describe the current problem or gap in the community. This should highlight how the proposed project's absence negatively affects the community's life, health, or safety.
- Significance of the Need: Demonstrate how the project addresses a critical, unmet need in Dunn County, which may include:
- Essential services not currently offered (e.g., healthcare, childcare, emergency services).
- Critical infrastructure gaps (e.g., water, power, transportation).
- Addressing workforce shortages in key industries.
Project Benefits
- Immediate and Long-Term Impact: Applicants should outline both immediate and long-term benefits of the project, specifically focusing on how the project will:
- Improve the quality of life in Dunn County (e.g., public health initiatives, educational programs, etc.).
- Enhance community safety (e.g., fire stations, healthcare facilities).
- Stimulate economic development (e.g., attracting new businesses, job creation).
- Community Reach: How many individuals or businesses will benefit from the project?
Industry Gaps
- Key Industry Support: Demonstrate how the project fills critical industry gaps, such as those in healthcare, workforce development, education, infrastructure, or retail.
- Complementary Role: Explain how the project complements existing businesses and services, avoiding duplication and contributing to the overall economic or community growth.
Economic and Social Impact
- Job Creation and Retention: Show how the project will contribute to job creation or the retention of existing jobs. Explain the number of jobs created and the industries affected.
- Local Economy Stimulation: Demonstrate how the project will increase economic activity within Dunn County, including increased sales, property taxes, or wages.
- Cost Efficiency: Explain how the proposed project offers value for the investment by being cost-effective and maximizing community benefits.
Sustainability and Longevity
- Long-Term Viability: Provide evidence of the project’s sustainability, showing how it will continue to benefit the community beyond the initial funding period. Explain any long-term plans or operational structures that will ensure the project’s success.
- Avoiding Market Saturation: Show how the project will not oversaturate existing markets or industries and how it will meet community demands without displacing current businesses.
Alignment with Community Priorities:
- Fit with Local Priorities: Applicants must explain how their project aligns with Dunn County's strategic priorities, such as improving community well-being, supporting local businesses, and addressing public health or safety concerns.
- Support from Local Stakeholders: Applicants may need to provide letters of support from key community leaders, organizations, or businesses that agree with the project’s impact and significance.
Risk and Feasibility
- Feasibility of Execution: Demonstrate that the project is feasible with a clear timeline, detailed cost estimates, and a plan to manage potential risks or challenges.
- Financial Stability: Provide evidence that the applicant has the financial capacity to support the project alongside SIP funding, ensuring that the project will not fail due to lack of resources.
Monitoring and Evaluation
- Outcome Metrics: Define the project's expected outcomes, including how success will be measured. This could include metrics like the number of jobs created, the amount of community engagement, or improvements to community health or safety.
- Ongoing Reporting: Applicants should explain how they will provide regular updates and reports on the project’s progress to the Dunn County JDA, to ensure compliance with program goals and terms.
Application Process
- Complete the Strategic Investments Program Application including:
- Why the project is necessary.
- How will it address a critical gap in the community?
- Project Overview.
- Expected impact on the community.
- Cost estimates and potential funding needs.
- Timeline for completion.
- The Dunn County JDA Board will review applications.
- The board may apply repayment schedules, depreciation schedules, contract buyouts, and claw back agreements to ensure the sustainability and accountability of funded projects.
- Funding decisions will be based on the strategic importance of the project to the community.
Funding and Reimbursement
- Approved projects will receive funding through a mechanism the board determines, such as a loan, financial support, or other arrangements.
- Funding will be disbursed through a reimbursement process upon submission of paid receipts, and project completion documentation.
Project Timeline
- All projects must be completed within the agreed-upon timeline, which will be specified in the approval process.
- Ongoing monitoring and reporting may be required to ensure compliance with the program’s terms.
Claw back and Contractual Terms
- Claw back agreements may be applied in cases where the project does not meet its intended outcomes or if contract terms are violated.
- The board may impose contractual buyout options to ensure flexibility in funding and long-term sustainability.
This program is designed to support creating and enhancing public spaces in Dunn County, fostering tourism and community engagement. The goal is to encourage residents, organizations, and businesses to actively contribute to placemaking efforts that improve the county’s livability, attractiveness, and tourism potential.
PLACEMAKING Grant Program
Grant Amount
Up to $20,000 per project, with smaller projects also encouraged to apply
Eligible Projects
- Public space improvements (parks, plazas, walking trails, etc.)
- Beautification efforts (murals, public art, streetscaping, etc.)
- Recreational facilities
- Community-led initiatives aimed at placemaking (community gardens, service days, public seating areas, etc.)
Eligibility
Eligible Applicants
- Non-profits
- Community organizations
- Businesses (projects cannot be for direct business gain).
- Individuals with projects that benefit public spaces or tourism.
- The event or project must take place in Dunn County.
Ineligible Applicants
- Projects intended solely for private or business profit.
- Projects that do not contribute to community engagement or placemaking.
Guidelines
- Project or event must be completed within one year of award. If an extension is needed, it must be preapproved by Dunn County JDA Board.
- If any changes occur to the awarded project that alter the plan submitted and approved, an updated scope of work must be submitted for approval. Dunn County JDA reserves the right to approve or deny any changes. If changes are denied, Dunn County JDA reserves the right to request all funding be returned.
Application
Complete the Tourism & Community Placemaking Application.
- Include a clear description of the project, its purpose, and its impact on public space, tourism, or the community.
- Applications should include relevant permits or letters of support from community officials if necessary.
- Dunn County JDA Board reviews the completed application.
- Notice of award is given to the applicant.
- An initial check of 50% of the award up to $10,000 is awarded upon the project start date. When all expenditures have reached that dollar amount, receipts for the project must be turned in to Dunn County JDA. From that point forward, $1,000 increments will be disbursed until funding award is reached.
- Final project-related receipts must be submitted within 60 days of project completion.
Reporting
Successful applicants must submit a brief report summarizing the impact and completion of the project, within 90 days of receiving the final reimbursement.
Terms and Conditions
- Applications are accepted year-round.
- Each project is eligible for funding once per calendar year.
- Applicants will be required to sign a Memorandum of Understanding guaranteeing the funds will be used according to the details included on the application.
- Dunn County JDA reserves the right to cancel the program in the event of failure to comply with this agreement.
- Application to the program does not guarantee funding.
- Dunn County JDA will have the authority to approve, disapprove, or make changes as necessary.
- Dunn County JDA reserves the right to request additional information as needed.
- Please consult your accountant on proper tax handling.
- Dunn County JDA will not be responsible to accomplish or continue any project or event started in result of this funding. It is the responsibility of the winning party to create and sustain the project or event.
EVENT MARKETING Grant Program
Grant Amount
Funding of up to $5,000 with a 1:1 match for Advertising funds directed toward bringing people from outside the community to the community, specifically for the advertised event.
Eligible Projects
- Event organizers may apply for marketing funds to promote an event in Dunn County. Marketing Funds must be used to target areas outside of Dunn County.
Examples of eligible expenses might include print or radio ads, Facebook paid advertising, or posters distributed to outlying areas.
Examples of non-covered costs could include t-shirts, cups etc.
Eligibility
- Applicants and/or organizations may apply once per calendar year. (If an organization sponsors multiple events, they may only apply for funds for marketing one time and are limited to $5,000.)
- Events must be open to the public and not private affairs.
Eligible Applicants
- Open to applicants and organizations that meet the eligibility criteria.
Guidelines
- Applications must be submitted prior to the event. Approval will not be granted retroactively.
Application
- Complete the marketing application.
- Application must include a clear description and proposed marketing of the event.
- Applications should include relevant estimates of the proposed marketing costs.
- Dunn County JDA Director reviews the completed application.
- Notice of award is given to the applicant.
- Grants funding is distributed on a reimbursement basis. Paid receipts must be submitted before reimbursement.
Terms and Conditions
- Applications are accepted throughout the year. Funding is subject to availability.
- Applicants and/or organizations may apply once per calendar year.
- Applicants will be required to sign a Memorandum of Understanding guaranteeing the funds will be used according to the details included on the application.
- Application to the program does not guarantee funding.
- Dunn County JDA Director will have the authority to approve, disapprove, or make changes as necessary.
- Dunn County JDA Director reserves the right to request additional information as needed.
- Please consult your accountant on proper tax handling.
- Dunn County JDA will not be responsible for accomplishing or continuing any project started as a result of this funding. It is the applicant's responsibility to create and sustain the project.
The Tuition Reimbursement Program is designed to help businesses in Dunn County attract and retain employees by offering up to $5,000 in financial assistance to pay off student loan debt. This program focuses on high-need and emerging occupations, ensuring businesses can remain competitive in workforce recruitment.
Maximum Reimbursement
Up to $5,000 to help pay off student loan debt for new employees.
Maximum Business Payout: $15,000 per business. Requests may exceed $15,000, but the payout will not.
Business Eligibility
- The business must be hiring for a position listed in the high-need and emerging occupations list. If the position is not listed, the employer may request a review for approval.
- The business must have a location in Dunn County.
- The application must be submitted and approved prior to hiring a new employee.
- Employer will certify the employee’s eligibility and ensure proper use of funds.
Employee Qualifications
- Proof of the degree, certificate, or licensure must be provided by the employer on behalf of employee.
- Employee must reside in Dunn County.
- Employee must be hired within 12 months of the employer’s application for the Workforce Tuition Reimbursement Program.
- Employee must work full-time (32+ hours) for a minimum of 3 years.
- Employees must have unpaid student loan debt incurred for obtaining their degree, certificate, or licensure. Proof of debt is required.
Reimbursement Process
- Funds will be released upon submission of proof of student debt incurred, proof of degree, certification, or licensure, and verification of employment.
- The employer must submit the Workforce Tuition Reimbursement Application – Step 2 along with all requested documents to qualify for reimbursement.
- Reimbursement is processed after the probationary period (60 days), and employee certification is approved.
Payback Terms
- In the event of termination, employee quitting, or like situation (other than death or disability) that causes employment not to last the three-year period, employer will be expected to notify Dunn County JDA within one month that the employee is no longer with them, and return funds to Dunn County JDA within three months.
- Payback amount is based on a tiered schedule as follows:
- 0-12 months, 100% payback required.
- 3-24 months, 50% payback required.
- 25-35 months, 30% payback required.
- The repayment can be deducted from the employee’s final payout or managed through a payback arrangement.
- The employer is responsible for retrieving funds from terminated employee and repaying them to Dunn County JDA.
Application Process
Employer Application
- The employer completes the Workforce Tuition Reimbursement Employer Application for an open position that is listed on the high-need and emerging occupations list, and submits it to Dunn County JDA for approval.
- The application is reviewed, and once approved, the employer may offer the incentive as part of their recruitment package.
- Application Validity: The application will stay active for 12 months. Businesses must resubmit annually to remain eligible for program funding.
Employee Certification
- Upon hiring, the employer and employee complete the Workforce Tuition Reimbursement Application – Step 2 and submit proof of unpaid student loan debt along with proof of degree, certificate, or licensure.
- Reimbursement funds will be released after verification of receipts and completion of the probationary period (60 days).
Verification
- The employer will submit annual verification of the employee’s continued employment for three years after the incentive is utilized.
- Failure to verify employment or noncompliance with the terms will result in the cancellation of the program and possible repayment of funds.
Funding Availability
Funds are disbursed on a first-come, first-serve basis. Approval of the application does not guarantee fund availability during the entire program cycle.
Terms and Conditions
- Applicants will be required to sign a Business Incentive Agreement and Memorandum of Understanding, guaranteeing the funds will be used according to the details included on the application.
- Dunn County JDA reserves the right to cancel the program in the event of failure to comply with this agreement.
- Application to the program does not guarantee funding.
- Dunn County JDA will have the authority to approve, disapprove, or make changes as necessary.
- Please consult your accountant on proper tax handling.
- The Dunn County JDA reserves the right to request additional information, and has final authority to approve, disapprove, or make changes as necessary.
The Workforce Relocation Reimbursement Program exists to help businesses in Dunn County provide additional benefits to new hires by reimbursing up to $5,000 in moving expenses. This program targets high-need and emerging occupations, making relocation more attractive for new employees while helping local businesses compete in the workforce market.
Maximum Reimbursement
Up to $5,000 per employee for eligible moving expenses.
Maximum Business Payout: $15,000 per business. Requests may exceed $15,000, but the payout will not.
Eligible Expenses
- Mileage or airfare for the employee and immediate family.
- Hotel or lodging incurred during specified moving period.
- Rental of hauling equipment.
- Moving services.
- New licenses and vehicle registration for North Dakota.
Business Eligibility
- Businesses must be hiring for a position outlined in the high-need and emerging occupations list. If the position is not listed, the employer may request a review for approval.
- The business must have a location in Dunn County.
- The application must be submitted and approved prior to hiring a new employee.
- Employer will certify the employee’s eligibility and ensure proper use of funds.
Employee Qualifications
- Employee must relocate from a distance of 100 miles or more to a residence in Dunn County.
- Employee must be hired within 12 months of the employer’s application for the program.
- Employee must successfully complete an initial probationary period (60 days).
- Employee must work full-time (32+ hours) for a minimum of three years.
- Employee and employer must provide receipts of eligible moving expenses.
Reimbursement Process
- Funds will be released on a reimbursement basis upon submission of eligible receipts, and verification of employment.
- The employer must submit the Workforce Relocation Reimbursement Application – Step 2 along with receipts to qualify for reimbursement.
- Reimbursement is processed after the probationary period (60 days) and employee certification is approved.
Payback Terms
- In the event of termination, employee quitting, or like situation (other than death or disability) that causes employment not to last the three-year period, employer will be expected to notify Dunn County JDA within one month that the employee is no longer with them, and return funds to Dunn County JDA within three months.
Payback amount is based on a tiered schedule as follows:- 0-12 months, 100% payback required.
- 13-24 months, 50% payback required.
- 25-35 months, 30% payback required.
- The repayment can be deducted from the employee’s final payout or managed through a payback arrangement.
The employer is responsible for retrieving funds from terminated employee and repaying them to Dunn County JDA.
