BISMARCK – Eighteen organizations, including the Minot Area Chamber EDC and other regional development groups, have been approved to share in $4.19 million in Regional Workforce Impact Program grants, according the North Dakota Department of Commerce.

The first-round grants in the program will assist regional workforce entities to design and implement innovative plans to address their region’s most demanding workforce challenges.

MACEDC will receive $250,000 to promote the WayFinders initiative, a targeted national campaign to attract employees to the Minot area.

St. Therese Little Flower Parish, Minot, was funded $188,028 to remodel a vacant convent into a childcare facility, offering early childhood and Montessori care for up to 25 children. Golden Kids Early Learning and Childcare Center, Minot, will receive $215,323 to renovate and expand an existing childcare facility to create additional spaces for 3-5-year-olds.

Other area recipients include:

– The Souris Basin Planning Council, $241,500 to develop a regional identity and messaging strategy to attract a diverse and skilled workforce.

– The City of Alexander, $500,000 to build a new childcare facility for about 70 children.

– The Divide County Economic Development Corp., $72,000 to develop a marketing campaign to attract new residents and workers to Divide County.

– The McKenzie County Job Development Authority, $4,855 to create a magazine showcasing McKenzie County’s lifestyle advantages to attract and retain a skilled workforce.

– Williams County, $11,400 to develop a video series to introduce the community and its offerings, aiming to attract families and talent.

– Rugby Convention and Visitors Bureau, $63,425 to participate in a documentary series called “My Town” to showcase Rugby and attract new residents and workers.

– StrengthenND, $250,000 to support the creation of marketing materials that will leverage and increase engagement for the “Find the Good Life” campaign in Region 3.

Round 2 of the grant program is open until April 1.