NSF Supports AgTech Growth in North Dakota

By Scout Nelson

Senator John Hoeven announced that the National Science Foundation has awarded $45 million to the North Dakota AgTech Engine at North Dakota State University, supporting continued growth in agricultural technology and workforce development.

The AgTech Engine is a strong partnership that includes NDSU, regional business groups, and the North Dakota Tribal College System. It focuses on improving agricultural technology and building a skilled workforce for the future. This initiative has already received $60 million in its first five years and may receive up to $160 million over ten years.

The program helps farmers and ranchers by supporting new tools and technologies that improve efficiency and reduce costs. It also connects investors, businesses, and researchers to bring new ideas into the market. In its early years, the initiative built a strong network of partners and attracted over $73 million in private investment and research support.

The new funding helps expand startup businesses, support product development, and increase education and training opportunities. These efforts aim to prepare the next generation of agriculture and engineering professionals.

“The North Dakota Agtech Engine has proven its potential in the first two years of its operations, leveraging more than $73 million from private sector partners using $15 million in initial federal support. That’s why we were able to secure this $45 million award, which will support three more years of technology and workforce development,” said Senator Hoeven. “Our farmers and ranchers provide the highest-quality, lowest-cost food supply in the world. By bringing new innovations to market, we can help them reduce their input costs, increase their yields and retain their competitive edge in the global economy. That’s what the AgTech Engine is all about.”

Additional funding supports research programs, data technology, risk analysis, and facility upgrades. These investments strengthen North Dakota’s role in leading agricultural innovation and help ensure a strong and sustainable future for farming.

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