North Dakota Launches LIFT Award for Innovative In-State Companies

The state is seeking applications from tech-forward businesses to boost the local economy.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 5:07pm

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A high-end, photorealistic studio still-life photograph featuring a sleek, modern laptop computer, a 3D-printed prosthetic hand, and a small glass vial filled with soil, all arranged elegantly on a clean, monochromatic seamless background with dramatic lighting and sharp shadows, conceptually representing the intersection of technology, innovation, and North Dakota's agricultural roots.North Dakota's LIFT program supports innovative in-state companies developing cutting-edge technologies to drive economic growth and job creation.Bismarck Today

North Dakota is inviting innovative companies based in the state to apply for its Legacy Investment for Technology (LIFT) award, which provides financial support to businesses driving economic growth and job creation through technological advancements. Previous LIFT recipients include Levridge, an agricultural software firm, and Protostetics, a custom orthotics and prosthetics developer.

Why it matters

The LIFT program aims to incentivize and support homegrown North Dakota companies that are developing cutting-edge technologies and solutions. By investing in these innovative firms, the state hopes to bolster its economy and create new high-skilled jobs for residents.

The details

The LIFT Loan Program recommends financial awards for companies that advance North Dakota's economy and job creation through innovative technological advancements. Applications for the 2026 LIFT Award are due by April 23.

  • The LIFT Loan Program was established in 2024.
  • Applications for the 2026 LIFT Award are due by April 23, 2026.

The players

Levridge

A Fargo-based agricultural technology company that offers agronomy, grain, and agricultural support software.

Protostetics

A company that develops custom orthotics and prosthetics.

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What’s next

The state will review LIFT Award applications and announce the 2026 recipients in May 2026.

The takeaway

North Dakota's LIFT program demonstrates the state's commitment to fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem and supporting homegrown tech companies that are driving economic growth and job creation.