The U.S. Economic Development Administration has awarded a $51,000 partnership planning grant for the Three Affiliated Tribes, according to a news release from Sen. Kevin Cramer.

The grant will help establish an economic development planning framework, process, and strategy to support private capital investment and job creation. Specifically, it supports the update and continued implementation of a comprehensive economic development strategy for the region served by the Three Affiliated Tribes.

The Three Affiliated Tribes serves the counties of Dunn, McKenzie McLean, Mercer, Mountrail and Ward. The comprehensive economic development strategy process is designed to bring together the public and private sectors in the creation of an economic development roadmap to diversify and strengthen the regional economy.