BISMARCK, N.D. – The 2025 North Dakota Governors’ Cup raised $130,000 for the ND Career Builders Program, with a state match doubling the impact to $260,000 in scholarships and student loan repayment for individuals entering high-demand fields across North Dakota.
“The ND Governors’ Cup was a great success, raising funds to support the ND Career Builders program and help us attract and retain talent for high-demand jobs in North Dakota,” North Dakota Gov. Kelly Armstrong said. “Supporting our students and investing in workforce creates a stronger economy that benefits all North Dakotans.”
The ND Governors’ Cup brought over 375 business and industry leaders to Bismarck, July 28-29. Along with the primary purpose of raising funds for its mission to support ND’s workforce, attendees also had the opportunity to participate in two days of networking, golf, and sporting clays.
A free Monday night Tigirlily Gold concert and the first-ever drone show on the Capitol lawn drew 7,000+ attendees and raised additional funds – all to celebrate North Dakota’s workforce and support the mission to attract and retain the next generation.
“The ND Governors’ Cup is helping build real momentum around one of North Dakota’s most critical challenges, which is recruiting and retaining qualified workers,” said Dr. Michael LeBeau, Co-Chair of the ND Governors’ Cup. “This event brings together leaders from every corner of the state and across the nation, all aligned around a shared mission. That kind of collaboration drives action.”
Funds from the inaugural 2024 event supported 24 students or new hires with awards averaging over $10,000 each. With the 2025 donation and state match, the total impact will exceed $500,000 in just two years.
Interim Chancellor Brent Sanford of the North Dakota University System, which administers the ND Career Builders program in partnership with the Department of Commerce, emphasized its long-term value: “ND Career Builders benefits the individuals receiving the support, and the program strengthens the economic health and competitiveness of North Dakota by ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified professionals for in-demand occupations,” Sanford said. “The great turnout again this year and widespread support underscore the business community’s commitment to investing in the education and career development of North Dakota’s future workforce.”
The matching funds model allows businesses to directly invest in their own future workforce while helping graduates reduce debt and remain in North Dakota. To learn more about ND Career Builders or apply, including the high-need and emerging occupations list, visit ndus.edu/career-builders.
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About the North Dakota Governors’ Cup
The North Dakota Governors’ Cup is an annual event focused on strengthening the state’s workforce by supporting the recruitment and retention of talent in high-demand fields. Through two days of high-impact networking, sporting events, and community celebration, the event brings together business leaders, industry partners, and state officials to invest in North Dakota’s future. All net proceeds from the event are donated to the ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program, which provides financial support to students and professionals who commit to living and working in North Dakota. Since its launch in 2024, the Governors’ Cup has contributed $510,000 to the program—helping connect dozens of individuals with careers and opportunities across the state.
About the ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program
ND Career Builders is a state-backed program designed to attract and retain talent in North Dakota by supporting students and new professionals entering high-demand careers. Through a unique 1:1 matching model, employers can partner with the state to provide scholarships or student loan repayment assistance — cutting debt for individuals while helping businesses secure long-term talent. This program directly benefits both graduates and employers: students receive critical financial support, and businesses invest in future employees who commit to living and working in North Dakota for at least three years. To see the list of qualifying high-need and emerging occupations — or learn how to apply as a business or individual — visit ndus.edu/career-builders.
Will Satler | (701) 877-4386 | will@ndgovernorscup.org