By Scout Nelson
The North Dakota Department of Commerce has announced the launch of the 2025 Autonomous Agriculture Grant Program, a new funding opportunity that provides up to $7.5 million for projects that advance autonomous agriculture in the state.
The program aims to speed up the development and use of advanced agricultural technologies, infrastructure, and workforce solutions. According to state officials, this effort is expected to support both innovation and rural economic development. Funding may be given as a single award or divided among several recipients.
“North Dakota is uniquely positioned to lead the future of autonomous agriculture,” said Shayden Akason, Deputy Director of Economic Development & Finance and Head of Investments and Innovation at the Department of Commerce. “This program is about catalyzing bold, collaborative ideas that integrate technology, research and rural economic development.”
Key details of the grant program include:
- Total funding: $7.5 million
- Applications open: Sept. 2, 2025, at 1 p.m. CDT
- Proposal deadline: Oct. 2, 2025, by 5 p.m. CDT
- Funds must be used by: June 30, 2027
Eligible projects may include proving grounds for autonomous agriculture, commercialization of ag-tech innovations, training programs for the workforce, and the development of unmanned systems and precision equipment.
Applicants must be nonprofits, industry consortia, or public-private partnerships with a permanent presence in North Dakota. Proposals will be evaluated on their ability to promote automation in agriculture, strengthen workforce skills, drive commercialization, and deliver measurable economic benefits to rural communities.
A selection committee of state leaders and industry representatives will review submissions using a 100-point scoring system. Applications must be submitted via email to Shayden Akason at sakason@nd.gov.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-sizsus
Categories: North Dakota, Government & Policy