December 2025

JSDC Prepares 2026 Flex PACE Funding

The JSDC is preparing for the 2026 Flex PACE program to continue supporting business growth and investment in Jamestown and Stutsman County. In 2025, the JSDC participated in three Flex PACE loans totaling $204,538.98. These projects leveraged $478,328.92 and more than $5.4 million in private investment in the community.

The 2026 program is recommended for $500,000 in funding, with a $400,000 city share and a $100,000 county share. Projects will follow the same guidelines as last year, including a complete application and scoring rubric, confirmation of funding from the lead lender, and a draft amortization schedule from the Bank of North Dakota. Storage units will not be considered for funding, JSDC contributions will be prorated based on the space occupied by the operating business, and applicants must occupy at least 51% of the real estate to qualify.

The Board of Directors reviewed and approved this recommendation at their December meeting. The request will now move to the city and county for final approval.

JSDC Approves De-Obligation of 2023–2024 Flex PACE Funds

At their December meeting, the JSDC Board approved de-obligating Flex PACE funds from 2023 and 2024 back to the City and County, totaling $533,987.31.

Local Leaders Named to 2025 Prairie Business 40 Under 40 Honorees List

We’re proud to celebrate two Jamestown/Stutsman County professionals recognized in Prairie Business’s 2025 “40 Under 40” class for their leadership and impact.

Austin Hieb — Director of Athletics, University of Jamestown

Austin Hieb has made a significant mark as Athletic Director at the University of Jamestown, guiding the department through its transition to NCAA Division II and the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference. His leadership has strengthened the athletic culture, hired six new head coaches, and helped teams achieve notable successes, including a women’s volleyball national championship.

Derek Schaff — Vice President & CFO, Jamestown Regional Medical Center

Derek Schaff brings strong financial leadership to Jamestown Regional Medical Center, focusing on sustainable healthcare, workforce stability, and technology investment. Beyond JRMC, he serves as president of the North Dakota Healthcare Financial Management Association and on the board of the North Dakota Hospital Association Insurance Trust.

Why This Matters

Austin and Derek’s recognition highlights the talent and leadership in our region. Their accomplishments strengthen key local institutions, support workforce retention, and boost Jamestown and Stutsman County’s reputation for excellence.

We congratulate Austin and Derek for their achievements and thank them for their contributions to our community.

— The JSDC Team

Spring 2026 Workforce Pathways Applications Now Open

Looking to bring fresh energy and new ideas to your team this spring? The JSDC Workforce Pathways Program (previously the Internship Reimbursement Program) helps Stutsman County businesses grow while giving students meaningful, paid work experience.

Benefits for Employers:

Access motivated college juniors and seniors ready to contribute.
Receive up to $3,500 in payroll reimbursement per participant.
Support local workforce development and long-term talent retention.
Create pathways to full-time employment after graduation.

How to Apply:

Email your application with a detailed job description to info@growingjamestown.com.

Deadline for Spring 2026: January 5th.

Questions? Call 701-252-6861.

Invest in your business and our community—apply today!

What's In The News:

North Dakota on track to be first in nation with 100% broadband internet access

The final connections are expected to be completed by 2028, though it may be sooner depending on construction timelines.

Capital campaign for new James River Senior Center and Public Transit site hits $1M mark

The campaign goal is $2 million.

Cavendish awarded $500,000 through Agriculture Diversification and Development Fund

For more information, visit www.ndda.nd.gov/add.

Despite challenges, child care looks to innovate in North Dakota

Increased collaboration could help address persistent issues

Out and About

Alyssa and Corry recently represented the JSDC in Grand Forks at the Lead Generation & Business Recruitment Workshop hosted by Minnkota Power Cooperative. The event brought together commerce and economic development professionals from across North Dakota for a day of learning and connection.

December is Write a Business Plan Month!

Did you know December is nationally recognized as Write a Business Plan Month? There’s no better time to take a step back, think strategically, and plan for the growth of your business. A well-crafted business plan can help you clarify your goals, secure financing, and map out your path to success.

If you’re looking for guidance, there are excellent resources available to North Dakota entrepreneurs. The North Dakota Small Business Development Center (SBDC) offers free business consulting, workshops, and online resources to help you create, review, or improve your business plan. You can learn more at ndsbdc.org.

Take this opportunity to plan for 2026 and set your business up for success!

North Dakota Employers: Expand Your Workforce with No-Cost English Upskilling

The Global Talent Office (GTO) is launching a groundbreaking statewide partnership with EnGen, a virtual, career-aligned English upskilling platform designed to help North Dakota employers strengthen their workforce. This new initiative provides no-cost English instruction to employers, employees, and job seekers across the state, helping remove language barriers and support long-term talent development.

Why This Matters for Employers

North Dakota continues to face significant workforce shortages across industries. Many

skilled workers are ready to contribute but are held back by English proficiency barriers. By providing targeted, career-specific English training, employers can expand their talent pool, improve retention, and increase productivity.

According to EnGen, employers using its platform see stronger onboarding outcomes, safer workplaces, and advancement opportunities for multilingual employees—directly

supporting workforce stability and long-term growth.

Program Highlights

• Free access to EnGen’s on-demand, virtual English platform

• 170+ career-specific English courses aligned to high-demand industries

• Live online classes, multilingual coaching, and digital literacy support

• Personalized, mobile-friendly learning built around workers’ schedules

• Easy enrollment for employers, job seekers, and community partners

North Dakota has secured 1,000 EnGen seats for employers and community organizations

to distribute to workers who need English language support.

“North Dakota’s partnership with EnGen is a strategic investment in our workforce.”

said Commerce Deputy Commissioner and Workforce Director Katie Ralston Howe. “By

removing language barriers, we’re unlocking the potential of thousands of workers and

helping employers build stronger, more resilient teams.”

How Employers Can Participate

EnGen’s employer tools allow businesses to:

• Enroll employees quickly at no cost

• Monitor progress and skill gains through dashboards

• Support targeted career-aligned upskilling

• Strengthen safety, communication, and retention

Employers can get started immediately by connecting with GTO or reaching out directly to EnGen on the ND + EnGen landing page: North Dakota Global Talent Office — EnGen - Language upskilling platform

Learn More

Recorded Virtual Info Session: EnGen - Employer Demo

Questions?

Contact Paige Kuntz, Global Talent Coordinator

pemkuntz@nd.gov | 701-328-7292

Upcoming Business Resource Events:

Event:	Date:	Hosted By:
7 Baby Steps to Budgeting with Chad Plettl	December 16	JREC
Deciding on Renting, Leasing, or Buying Commercial Property	January 13	JREC
Strong Women, Strong Connections - Jamestown Chapter	January 13	NDWBC
Small Business Training Course: Protecting Your Small Business - Insurance Basics	January 20	JREC
95th Annual Chamber Awards Banquet	January 21	Jamestown Chamber

On the Search for More Local Events?

Visit Our Website

Jamestown/Stutsman Development Corporation

701.252.6861 | info@growingjamestown.com | www.growingjamestown.com

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