THE NORTH DAKOTA GOVERNORS' CUP
The Cause
ND CAREER BUILDERS (NDCB) QUALIFYING OCCUPATIONS
Those deemed as in-demand. The list is evaluated and updated annually. Please view the in-demand occupations on the ND University System (NDUS) website.
SCHOLARSHIPS
- The maximum award is $17,000 under the NDCB program.
- Student must be enrolled in a qualifying program of study at an institution within North Dakota.
- Student must be enrolled full-time and hold a minimum GPA of 2.50.
- Private sector matching funds to the state dollars must be available to the student.
- Business must contact NDUS to discuss the use of the Governors’ Cup funds to meet the match prior to the student applying for the scholarship.
- Student agrees to live within North Dakota (or within 50 miles of the border) for 3 years following program completion.
- Student agrees to work in an in-demand occupation within North Dakota for 3 years following program completion.
- Student agree to repay the state portion of the scholarship if the 3-year obligations are not met.
- Student applies through the NDUS in the ND SAMS portal after the business contacts NDUS.
LOAN REPAYMENT
- Maximum award is $17,000 under the NDCB program.
- Employee must have graduated from a program of study (is not limited to a ND institution).
- Employee must have been hired within 24 months of approval by the NDUS.
- Employee must be working in an in-demand occupation within North Dakota.
- Employee must be living within North Dakota (or within 50 miles of the border).
- Employee must hold a qualifying student loan balance.
- Private sector matching funds to the state dollars must be available to the employee.
- Business must contact NDUS to discuss the use of the Governors’ Cup funds to meet the match prior to the employee applying for the scholarship.
- Payments are issued annually to the loan servicer to pay down the current outstanding principal balance. A maximum of $5,667 per year is remitted. The amount is based on the employee’s ongoing eligibility and outstanding principal balance on the qualifying student loan.
- Employee applies through the NDUS in the ND SAMS portal after the business contacts NDUS.
NDUS CONTACT
Brenda Zastoupil, NDUS Financial Aid Director
701-877-5720 or Brenda.zastoupil@ndus.edu
Program Details
The goal of the event is to raise funds that will help alleviate North Dakota business challenges with recruiting and keeping quality workers.
The goal of The North Dakota Governors’ Cup is to raise funds for workforce and that a check will be presented at the conclusion of the event.
Workforce development is a challenge for every sector not only within North Dakota, but across the country.
This is a tool, offered by ND Career Builders that allows for businesses to recruit and retain talent in high-need occupations in the state of North Dakota.
This innovative partnership provides $1 of state funds for each $1 of matching funds, up to a total of $17,000 per recipient.
Recipients can receive a student loan repayment once they have finished their program of study and are seeking employment in an in- demand occupation within North Dakota. It is a win for businesses, students, employees, and the state.
Qualified workers interested in loan repayment can complete the application with their employer and send it to the NDUS. Contact the NDUS at ndfinaid@ndus.edu or at 701-328-2906 if you have any questions on the application or how to proceed.
Any sponsor from the previous event year, who has an approved applicant under standard program rules, is not required to provide additional matching funds (up to one (1) award per sponsored per year).
Donated funds may be used to cover up to $8,500 per approved recipient. The NDCB program will provide the corresponding $8,500 match, totaling the standard maximum of $17,000 per award.
A sponsor business may have multiple applicants submit applications, but only one (1) per sponsor year may be funded from the ND Governors’ Cup donated funds. If a sponsor business has more than one (1) applicant in a sponsor year, the business must provide a 25% match on all subsequent approved applications.
If a sponsor business has more than three (3) applicants, the ND Governors’ Cup must approve the award(s) prior to the applicant(s) being approved by the NDUS if using ND Governors’ Cup funds.
Businesses not sponsoring the event may apply and recieve funds raised from the event for one (1) approved candidate per year per sponsor year:
- 25% of the award (up to $4,250) is paid from Governors’ Cup donated funds.
- 25% (up to $4,250) is provided by the non-sponsoring employer.
- 50% (up to $8,500) is provided by NDCB.
Total award remains a maximum of $17,000 per recipient.
A non-sponsor business may have multiple candidates submit applications, but only one (1) per year may be funded from the ND Governors’ Cup donated funds.
The ND University System retains full authority to review NDCB applications, determine eligibility, verify high-demand occupations, and approve awards. The ND Governors’ Cup is not involved in any way regarding award decisions beyond providing annual sponsor lists and an approved fund use framework.
Success Stories
Building North Dakota’s Healthcare Future, One Nurse at a Time
Alyssa Stein always knew she wanted to make a difference in people’s lives. Her journey to becoming a nurse was fueled by passion, determination, and the support of the ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program.
Pursuing a Career in Nursing
Alyssa started the Accelerated Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Rasmussen University in July 2018, graduating in December 2019. Shortly after, she passed the RN-NCLEX exam and launched her career in February 2020 at Sanford Medical Center’s Family Birth Center, where she now works in Labor & Delivery and Postpartum Care.
How ND Career Builders Made an Impact
Alyssa learned about the ND Career Builders program through faculty at Rasmussen University. When nursing became an eligible career, she applied and was accepted into the loan repayment program. This opportunity has significantly impacted her life and career.
“My family and I are grateful for the program’s assistance in repaying my student loans. It has helped me stay focused on my career goals while easing the financial burden of my education.”
Encouraging Future Applicants & Employers
Alyssa believes that ND Career Builders is an essential tool for addressing workforce shortages in high-demand fields like nursing.
“We need more nurses in the field, and this program is helping those who want to pursue this career by providing scholarships and loan repayment options.”
For students considering a high-demand career in North Dakota, her advice is simple:
“Please apply! If your career is eligible, this program is 100% worth it.”
She also encourages businesses to participate in the program:
“By assisting employees with loan repayment, businesses are investing not only in careers but in people’s lives. It strengthens job satisfaction, retention, and the overall workforce in North Dakota.”
A Stronger Future for North Dakota
Alyssa sees programs like ND Career Builders as a key solution to addressing staffing shortages across industries. By investing in young professionals today, North Dakota businesses are shaping a stronger, more resilient workforce for the future.
“Young adults need to know they can pursue meaningful careers without being overwhelmed by financial barriers. This program helps make that possible.”
Thanks to ND Career Builders, Alyssa is thriving in her nursing career — helping families, serving her community, and proving that investing in North Dakota’s workforce is an investment in a brighter future.
Powering North Dakota’s Future with Renewable Energy
For Adam Davis, choosing a high-demand career in renewable energy was a smart move — but having the ND Career Builders Scholarship to support him along the way made the journey even smoother.
Building a Career in Energy Services
Adam attended Bismarck State College (BSC) and earned an Associate in Applied Science degree in Energy Services and Renewable Technology in May 2021. After graduation, he received additional training in Orlando, Florida, preparing him for a career as a Wind Technician — a field that plays a crucial role in North Dakota’s growing energy sector.
How ND Career Builders Made a Difference
As Adam started school, the ND Career Builders program had just launched. He was fortunate to receive scholarships that helped ease the financial burden of his education.
“It was a great feeling knowing that I would receive scholarships and not have to stress about financial aid.”
The program also gave him confidence in his career choice, reinforcing that wind energy is a high-demand and worthwhile field.
Encouraging Future Applicants & Employers
Adam emphasizes that high-demand careers not only provide job security and good pay, but also a sense of purpose.
“High-demand jobs are good for self-esteem. You know that you are doing something worthwhile, and it never hurts to get financial help when making a big decision in life.”
For businesses looking to hire skilled workers, Adam encourages them to invest in ND Career Builders.
“Any business looking for new hires should participate in the Career Builders program. It helps students achieve their goals and makes it easier for businesses to find qualified employees.”
A Stronger Workforce for North Dakota
Adam believes that investing in the workforce isn’t just about filling jobs — it’s about respecting and preparing the next generation to lead North Dakota forward.
“North Dakota has a strong workforce. We are taught to respect our elders, but we also must respect our youth. The next generation needs the same work ethic and drive to keep pushing in the right direction.”
A Bright Future in Renewable Energy
Today, Adam works as a Basic Wind Technician at the Bison Wind Energy site north of New Salem, ND. As he applied for jobs after graduation, companies were eager to recruit him — impressed by his work history, military service, and education from BSC.
“A few times during my interviews, they mentioned they were happy I was a North Dakota native.”
With his skills, education, and the support of ND Career Builders, Adam is contributing to North Dakota’s renewable energy future — proving that investing in young professionals keeps talent in the state and strengthens the economy.
Investing in North Dakota’s Workforce for a Stronger Future
For Sara Frith, Vice President of People & Culture at General Equipment & Supplies, Inc. (GES), investing in North Dakota’s workforce isn’t just a business strategy — it’s a commitment to the future. Through the ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program, GES has been able to recruit and retain skilled employees in high-demand fields, particularly diesel technicians.
Building a Strong Workplace Culture
As a leader in workforce development, Sara plays a vital role in shaping the hiring, training, and retention strategies at GES. The company operates across North Dakota, Minnesota, South Dakota, and Iowa, supplying heavy construction equipment and fostering a culture built on core values:
Do the Right Thing
Be Curious
Have Passion
Be Innovative
How ND Career Builders Supports Workforce Growth
Workforce shortages are a growing challenge for North Dakota businesses, and GES has been utilizing ND Career Builders since its launch in 2019 to help bridge the gap.
“Like many North Dakota companies, workforce is a need for GES, especially in the area of diesel technicians. The Career Builders program offers us financial assistance in securing our future workforce.”
The program provides a dollar-for-dollar match, offering loan repayment assistance that helps employees manage student debt—an incentive that makes GES an attractive employer.
The Impact on Recruitment & Retention
For GES, ND Career Builders is a key recruiting tool. When talking to potential hires, Sara and her team highlight the financial benefits available through the program, making it easier to attract skilled workers.
“We explain the Career Builders program to students, and they are excited to hear about the financial reimbursement opportunities available to them.”
Why More Businesses Should Get Involved
Sara encourages other organizations to take advantage of the ND Career Builders program, especially those struggling with workforce shortages.
“Workforce in our state is a major issue, and this program is a great opportunity to help a company offset the investment in great employees.”
Advice for Future Students
For students considering a high-demand career, Sara recommends career exploration — taking advantage of tours, job shadows, and hands-on learning experiences. Programs like ND Career Builders can make education more affordable and eliminate the burden of student loans.
“Buying a new vehicle or a home will be much easier without student loan worries. Utilize programs like Career Builders to get an education with little to no debt.”
Why Investing in North Dakota’s Workforce Matters
North Dakota’s reputation for hard work and humility is something Sara takes pride in — and she believes businesses should invest in the next generation to keep that tradition alive.
“Invest in our own state, keep good people living and working here, and North Dakota will continue to be the great state it is.”
Through ND Career Builders, GES is not only filling positions — it’s shaping a talented, motivated workforce that will drive North Dakota’s industries forward for years to come.
