The North Dakota Department of Commerce announced that projects and organizations from the state received four honors at the 2026 Mid‑America Economic Development Council (Mid‑America EDC) Annual Awards, presented Aug. 31–Sept. 2 in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The awards recognize notable achievements in economic development across the council’s 13‑state region.
State projects recognized for community building and resilience
North Dakota’s winners reflect work in creative placemaking, community activation and energy sector persistence. Among the recipients was a downtown Minot effort that transformed an overlooked alley into a year‑round civic destination. Another award highlighted a response to market pressures at a coal‑fired power site that emphasized regional jobs and long‑term planning.
The department said the honors highlight projects that are “strengthening communities, creating economic opportunity and advancing innovation across the state.”
Who received awards
| Award category | Project / recipient | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Placemaking – Large Population | Citizen’s Alley + Downtown Minot Activation Strategy | Minot |
| Overcoming Adversity – Small Population | Coal Creek Station – Rainbow Energy Center | Bismarck |
Department materials identified these two projects specifically among the state’s honorees. The Minot project was recognized for converting an underused space into a vibrant community asset, and the Rainbow Energy Center’s Coal Creek Station work was cited for its response to shifting energy markets.
Local leaders emphasize partnerships and community return
Leaders involved with the Minot activation described the project as an example of community collaboration. Brekka Kramer, president and CEO of the Minot Area Chamber EDC, noted the broader significance of the recognition.
“Citizen’s Alley has become something truly special for downtown Minot, and it’s wonderful to see that work receive recognition at a multi-state level,” said Minot Area Chamber EDC President/CEO Brekka Kramer.
Representatives tied the project’s momentum to grants and partnerships. Jessica Ackerman from Aksal Group highlighted the role of state support.
“The Destination Development Grant from the ND Department of Commerce helped accelerate this project, and we're honored to see that partnership recognized by the Mid‑America EDC,” said Jessica Ackerman.
Ackerman also pointed to how Citizen’s Alley now draws residents and visitors for a range of events, noting that the space hosts activities from summer concerts to winter ice skating.
Energy project praised for preserving jobs and production
The Coal Creek Station recognition was framed around resilience in a changing energy market. Rainbow Energy Center’s vice president of external affairs, Jessica Bell, said the honor reflects the commitment of employees and partners who worked to ensure the facility’s future.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of our employees and partners who worked together to create a strong future for Coal Creek Station,” said Vice President of External Affairs Jessica Bell.
Officials said the award acknowledges efforts to preserve regional jobs, support communities and maintain energy production, though Department of Commerce materials did not specify technical details of the actions taken at the site.
Why these awards matter locally
Recognition from a multi‑state economic development council can raise a project’s profile and help attract additional investment, tourism and partnership opportunities. For smaller cities and rural areas, placemaking projects that turn vacant or underutilized spaces into gathering spots can spur adjoining private investment and increase downtown foot traffic.
- Visibility: Awards bring attention that can aid fundraising and future grants.
- Validation: External recognition can validate local strategies for community engagement and economic recovery.
- Replication: Other North Dakota communities may study these projects as models when seeking similar outcomes.
The Mid‑America EDC awards are annual and cover work across its 13‑state membership. North Dakota’s four honors this year place the state among recognized regional efforts to strengthen local economies and adapt to changing conditions.
The Department of Commerce released the list of winners following the awards presentation in Grand Rapids, and local leaders in Minot and Bismarck issued statements celebrating the recognition.
(Reporting for WE NEWS by Ingrid Bjornstad.)
