Inaugural North Dakota’s Governors Cup Donates $125,000 to Attract and Retain ND’s Workforce

Bismarck, N.D. – North Dakota’s Governors Cup, in partnership with the Greater North Dakota Chamber (GNDC) Foundation, is making a generous donation of $125,000 to the ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program. This contribution is poised to make an impact on the future of many students and workers across the state.

The donation will be matched dollar-for-dollar by the state of North Dakota, effectively doubling its impact. This match will enhance the program's ability to provide crucial financial support to individuals pursuing careers in high-demand sectors such as healthcare, information technology, manufacturing, energy, and more.

“The inaugural Governors Cup was a resounding success, raising $125,000 in private donations which, when matched with state funds through the ND Career Builders Scholarship & Loan Repayment Program, will represent a $250,000 investment in our efforts to attract and retain students and recent graduates in high-demand fields,” North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum said. “We’re deeply grateful to the event’s organizers, sponsors, vendors, and donors, including the many golfers and competitive shooters who competed for a good cause.”

The inaugural event, held over two days in Fargo, successfully raised funds through the generous support of 38 sponsors and the enthusiastic participation of over 280 attendees.

"We set out to create a premier networking event for business and civic leaders and to showcase the positive business climate of North Dakota," said Dave Goodin, Co-Chair and Immediate Past President & CEO of MDU Resources Group Inc. "Thanks to the incredible response we received this first year, we are already looking ahead to 2025 for how we can make the event even more successful and have a greater impact on the students and qualified workers in the state."

North Dakota’s Governors Cup partners with the Greater North Dakota Chamber Foundation to help raise funds for the state’s workforce needs.

“The strong turnout and widespread support underscore the business community’s commitment to investing in the education and career development of North Dakota’s future workforce,” said GNDC President and CEO, Arik Spencer. “ND Careers Builders benefits the individuals receiving the support but the state in entirety. The initiative strengthens the economic health and competitiveness of North Dakota by ensuring a steady pipeline of qualified professionals in key sectors and is a tool businesses can use to attract and retain.”

CareerViewXR, the title sponsor of North Dakota’s Governors Cup, has taken a significant step towards addressing workforce challenges. Their hands-on technology introduces these industries and jobs to students, essential for preparing them for future careers.

"Our team at CareerViewXR couldn't be happier with the positive impact we’ve had on the Career Builders program,” said CEO of CareerViewXR, Matthew Chaussee. “We can't wait to continue supporting North Dakota’s Governors Cup and keep building sustainable connections between education and workforce."

The North Dakota’s Governors Cup has set a high standard for charitable giving and business community involvement in its inaugural year, and the organizers are committed to building on this success in future events. The substantial donation with state matching funds highlights the power of collaborative efforts in making a lasting and positive impact on North Dakota's future.

About North Dakota's Governors Cup and GNDC Foundation:
North Dakota’s Governors Cup is the state’s premier event for business professionals and leaders, offering unparalleled networking opportunities and showcasing the quality of life, business climate, and leadership that set North Dakota apart. Proceeds from the Governors Cup support the ND Career Builders Scholarship and Loan Repayment Program, which aids students and workforce development in North Dakota. Visit ndgovernorscup.org to learn more.

Greater North Dakota Chamber Foundation is a nonprofit, nonpartisan research and education organization dedicated to bolstering the North Dakota economy, driving economic prosperity in North Dakota, with business driving the state’s future. Visit ndchamber.com to learn more.