Bill > SB2311

This bill amends the North Dakota Century Code to modify the bioscience innovation grant program, primarily changing how the program is administered and expanding its oversight. The bill requires the agriculture commissioner to collaborate with a state bioscience association to develop and manage the grant program, with the association now responsible for promoting the program, recruiting bioscience organizations, determining applicant eligibility, and conducting performance reviews. The commissioner can now reimburse the collaborating association up to $600,000 per biennium for program-related costs. The bill maintains the program's core objectives of supporting biotechnology innovation, creating bioscience jobs, developing new technologies and startup companies, and promoting bioscience research. Eligibility requirements for businesses remain similar, including having at least two employees and annual sales under $2.5 million. The grant committee is expanded to include representatives from the University of North Dakota and North Dakota State University, in addition to existing members from the agriculture, commerce departments, and the bioscience association. The bill continues to prohibit using grant funds for capital improvements, academic programming, or workforce training, ensuring the funds are directed specifically toward bioscience innovation and development.

Education

https://ndlegis.gov/assembly/69-2025/regular/bill-overview/bo2311.html