Roughrider Fund now accepting applications
The Roughrider Fund is a one and a half cent city sales tax that was established in 2004 to support projects that develop, promote and enhance the general welfare of the region with primary focus given to projects that improve the attractiveness of Watford City by increasing and enhancing community amenities and services. The Fund has committed 2023 funds to its Business Retention and Expansion (BR&E) program to develop businesses that provide in-demand goods and services to the community. See the summary of BR&E programs to support entrepreneurs in our community:
- CBD (Central Business District) Façade Incentive Match Grant
- Promote exterior rehabilitation and improve commercial buildings in the Central Business zoning district to enhance the overall appearance, quality and vibrancy of downtown Watford City
- Licensed Child Care Renewal Grant
- Promote and support Child Care capacity with certain annual expense reimbursements of Family, Group and Child Care Centers
- Promote quality of life, increase attractiveness as a tourist destination, and foster economic growth through vibrancy of public facilities, parks and events
- Community Enhancement Grant
- Support quality of life and community enhancement projects which bring enhancement and vibrancy to the community
- There is still funding in this grant for 2023 projects. If you are an event sponsor or know a great event looking for a match grant of up to $3,000 in Watford City or up to $2,500 in McKenzie County, consider applying
- First Year Business Boost – Mini-Match Grant
- Diversify the local economy and grow the local tax base by supporting new business startups in their first year of business
- Flex Pace / Pace Match Grant
- Support small businesses, economic development and diversification, and help both new and existing businesses lower initial project borrowing costs associated with new and expanding investment in Watford City’s economy
- Business Startup and Expansion Grant
- Diversify the local economy and grow the local tax base by incentivizing and supporting new business startups and existing business expansions by matching private investment with public incentives
These Roughrider Fund programs are dedicated to making Watford City a better place by creating jobs that diversify the economy and grow the tax base. If you are interested, or know an entrepreneur interested in starting or expanding a business, complete this fillable Roughrider Fund Project Enrollment Form and email to Vawnita Best to enroll in the Fund BR&E programs, or click here to learn more about them!
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