BISMARCK, N.D. (KXNET) — As part of its Legacy Investment for Technology (LIFT) program, the North Dakota Department of Commerce has invested over $1 million in four Fargo-based companies on the cutting edge of automation. According to a press release from the Department, the LIFT program aims to support ND-based technology by offering funding for the development and commercialization of intellectual property. Applications are open to any state company that the LIFT committee identifies as helping to diversify the state's economy, including the following: Advanced Computing Data Management Agriculture Technology Autonomous/Unmanned Vehicles Energy Health Care Value-Added Agriculture/Energy “The LIFT program is a vital resource for fostering innovation and supporting North Dakota’s growing tech and manufacturing sectors,” said Commerce's Head of Investments, Shayden Akason, in the release. “This round of funding highlights our commitment to empowering businesses that drive economic diversification and create lasting impact across the state." In December 2024, the program awarded a grand total of $1,044,000 to four businesses, all of which are based in Fargo and West Fargo. Below is a list of the groups that will be receiving this month's grants, as well as what the funding will be used for. Apply now for ND speciality crop grants CorVent Medical in Fargo was awarded $296,500 for the design and production of mechanical ventilators. Currently, they are the only U.S.-owned and operated designer/manufacturer of these devices. Dynon Avionics in Fargo was also given $296,500 for their continued efforts to design and manufacture avionics systems for small aircraft. Project Phoenix, a Fargo-based software platform that focuses on simplifying data management by automating the creation of Application-Programming Interfaces (APIs) that are both safe and highly efficient, was given $100,000 to aid in their endeavors. Valor Victoria, a woman-owned rail service business in West Fargo, has received $351,000 for the development of a platform that will allow users to track container movement in real time. Click here for more information on the LIFT program — including program details and an application guide. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW