Government grants provide direct financial assistance to North Dakota residents without requiring repayment. These programs help families and individuals cover essential expenses like housing, utilities, education, and medical care. North Dakota administers both state-funded and federal programs through agencies including the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA), North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, and the North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs.
Grants differ from loans because recipients never owe money back. Eligibility depends on factors like household income, residency status, and specific circumstances such as age, disability, or veteran status. Most programs prioritize low- to moderate-income households facing financial hardship.
Key Takeaways
North Dakota offers housing, utility, education, workforce training, and emergency assistance grants through state and federal programs
LIHEAP provides year-round energy assistance to households earning at or below 60% of state median income
Veterans and dependents can access up to $3,000 annually through the Hardship Assistance Grant Program for medical and emergency needs
Technical Skills Training Grants offer up to $200,000 for workforce development programs with a required 1:1 match
Applications are accepted year-round for most programs through local Human Service Zone offices or agency websites
Types of Government Grants Available in North Dakota
North Dakota provides grant assistance across multiple categories to address urgent financial needs and promote long-term stability.
Housing Assistance Grants
North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) administers several programs to help low-income residents secure affordable housing. The Housing Incentive Fund (HIF) provides gap assistance and matching funds for new construction, rehabilitation, and preservation projects. The Helping Housing Across North Dakota (Helping HAND) program supports single-family housing rehabilitation through non-profit organizations. Federal programs like HOME Investment Partnerships and National Housing Trust Fund create and preserve affordable rental housing units.
| Program Name | Purpose | Eligibility | Amount |
|---|---|---|---|
| Housing Incentive Fund (HIF) | New construction, rehabilitation, accessibility improvements | Low- to moderate-income households | Varies by project |
| Helping HAND | Single-family rehabilitation through non-profits | Low-income homeowners (via non-profit) | Varies by need |
| HOME Program | Homeownership assistance through community land trusts | Low-income homebuyers | Gap funding |
| Low Income Housing Tax Credit | Affordable multifamily housing development | Income-qualified renters | Rental units created |
Utility and Energy Assistance
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps eligible households pay heating bills and address energy emergencies. The program operates year-round and approved applicants do not need to reapply annually. Crisis assistance is available for households facing shutoff notices, fuel shortages, or minor heating system repairs. The Community Action Partnership (CAP) provides weatherization services to approved LIHEAP recipients to improve home energy efficiency.
Education and Workforce Training Grants
Technical Skills Training Grants support training providers and employers developing accelerated workforce programs. Track A provides up to $200,000 for new non-degree training programs preparing trainees for in-demand occupations. Track B offers up to $100,000 for internal upskilling and employee advancement programs. Track C grants up to $200,000 for automation-related training and workforce development. The Workforce Education Innovation Fund (WEIF) distributes grants across North Dakota University System institutions to address employer-identified skill gaps.
Innovate ND provides voucher reimbursement for entrepreneurs conducting customer and market research. Participants receive up to $22,500 in reimbursable expenses divided into two phases over six months.
Small Business and Self-Employment Grants
Innovate ND offers state-funded vouchers and expert coaching to help entrepreneurs develop profitable businesses. The North Dakota Native American Small Business Grant provides dedicated resources for indigenous entrepreneurs seeking expansion funding and equipment purchases. The North Dakota Opportunity Fund provides loans and gap financing for small business expansion projects.
Assistance for Seniors, Disabled Individuals, Families, and Veterans
Veterans and Dependents: The North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs (NDDVA) Grant Program provides financial assistance for urgent unmet needs including dental care, dentures, eyeglasses, hearing aids, housing, and transportation to medical appointments. The Hardship Assistance Grant offers up to $3,000 per year to low-income veterans or spouses. Eligibility requires monthly income below $1,200 for single persons and liquid assets under $2,000.
Seniors and Disabled Persons: The North Dakota Renter’s Refund Program provides partial refunds on rent paid for living quarters, with refunds up to $400. Disabled veterans receive property tax credits equal to their VA disability rating percentage, ranging from $4,500 to $9,000.
Families: The Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) program provides cash assistance and supportive services to families with children. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) helps low-income households purchase food, with no asset limit in North Dakota.
Who Is Eligible for North Dakota Government Grants
Eligibility requirements vary by program but most grants prioritize North Dakota residents with limited income and specific needs.
Income-Based Eligibility
Most assistance programs use federal poverty level percentages or state median income to determine eligibility. LIHEAP requires household income at or below 60% of North Dakota’s median income. SNAP sets the gross income limit at 200% of the federal poverty level for most households.
| Household Size | SNAP Gross Monthly Income Limit | Example LIHEAP Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $2,608 | 60% state median |
| 2 people | $3,526 | 60% state median |
| 3 people | $4,442 | 60% state median |
| 4 people | $5,358 | 60% state median |
| 5 people | $6,276 | 60% state median |
| Each additional | +$916 | 60% state median |
Residency Requirements
Applicants must be North Dakota residents to qualify for state-administered grants. Some programs require proof of residency through utility bills, lease agreements, or state identification documents.
Priority and Protected Groups
Veterans and military families access specialized grants through the North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs. Seniors age 60 and older and persons with disabilities receive alternative eligibility pathways for SNAP and higher asset limits. Low-income homeowners qualify for housing rehabilitation assistance through non-profit partnerships. Displaced workers gain priority access to Technical Skills Training programs.
How to Apply for Government Grants in North Dakota
Application processes differ by program but most accept submissions year-round through designated state agencies.
Step-by-Step Application Process
| Step | Action | Details |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Identify Programs | Determine which grants match your needs | Visit agency websites or contact local Human Service Zone offices |
| 2. Gather Documents | Collect required verification materials | Income statements, identification, utility bills, lease agreements |
| 3. Complete Application | Fill out official forms accurately | Available online, by mail, or in person |
| 4. Submit Application | Send to appropriate agency or office | Customer Support Center, local office, or online portal |
| 5. Follow Up | Check application status | Log into Self-Service Portal or contact support center |
Where to Apply
LIHEAP and Energy Assistance: Apply through the Self-Service Portal (SSP), local Human Service Zone offices, or the Customer Support Center. Applications are accepted year-round and approved recipients remain eligible without annual reapplication.
Housing Grants: Contact the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency for information about available programs. The Helping HAND program operates by invitation to non-profit organizations, not directly to individuals.
Workforce Training: Submit applications to the North Dakota Department of Commerce for Technical Skills Training Grants. The program requires a 1:1 match from applicants.
Veterans Assistance: Contact the North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs or visit local county veterans service offices.
Common Documents Required
Most programs request proof of income through pay stubs, tax returns, or benefit statements. Applicants need valid identification such as driver’s licenses or state IDs. Residency verification includes utility bills, lease agreements, or mortgage statements. Emergency assistance requests require copies of disconnection notices or repair estimates.
Benefits and Limitations of Government Grants
Understanding what grants cover and their restrictions helps applicants set realistic expectations.
What Grants Can Help Pay For
Housing grants cover construction costs, rehabilitation expenses, accessibility improvements, and homeownership assistance. Energy assistance pays heating bills, reconnection fees, fuel delivery, and minor heating system repairs. Education grants fund workforce training programs, automation implementation, and employee upskilling initiatives. Veterans grants pay for dental care, eyeglasses, hearing aids, housing deposits, and medical transportation.
Common Restrictions
Income limits exclude households earning above program thresholds. Asset limits apply to certain programs like veteran hardship assistance, which caps liquid assets at $2,000. Lifetime limits restrict TANF benefits to 60 months total across all state and tribal programs. Match requirements mandate 1:1 funding contributions for Technical Skills Training Grants.
What Grants Do Not Cover
Grants do not replace comprehensive financial planning or cover all expenses. LIHEAP addresses heating costs but may not cover full utility bills during extreme weather. Housing programs provide gap assistance but do not guarantee homeownership. Veterans hardship grants limit annual awards to $3,000, which may not cover extensive medical needs.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Applying
Simple errors delay approvals or result in denials despite meeting eligibility criteria.
Incomplete applications missing required documents force agencies to request additional information, extending processing times. Always verify document checklists before submission and attach all requested verification materials.
Missing deadlines for competitive grant programs like Technical Skills Training eliminates funding opportunities. Although LIHEAP accepts year-round applications, emergency assistance requests between October 1 and March 31 receive priority. Submit applications immediately when facing shutoff notices.
Confusing grants with loans leads to misunderstandings about repayment obligations. Grants never require repayment, while programs like the Veteran Aid Loan and Beginning Entrepreneur Loan Guarantee involve loan obligations. Verify program type before applying.
Failing to reconfirm eligibility causes problems for programs transitioning to year-round models. LIHEAP approved applicants do not need to reapply annually, but checking status through the Self-Service Portal prevents missed benefits.
Ignoring local resources means missing non-profit assistance and specialized services. LIHEAP recipients qualify for Community Action Partnership weatherization services that reduce future energy costs.
Conclusion
North Dakota government grants provide essential financial assistance without repayment obligations for eligible residents. Programs address immediate needs through energy assistance, housing support, workforce training, and emergency aid for veterans, seniors, families, and low-income households. Successful applicants carefully review eligibility requirements, submit complete applications with required documentation, and contact appropriate state agencies for program-specific guidance.
Start by identifying programs matching your circumstances, then contact the North Dakota Department of Health and Human Services, North Dakota Housing Finance Agency, or North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs for application instructions. Most programs accept year-round applications through online portals, local offices, or mail submission.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How do I know if I qualify for LIHEAP energy assistance in North Dakota?
Your household must earn at or below 60% of North Dakota’s median income to qualify for LIHEAP. Households with members age 60 or older or with disabilities may have alternative eligibility pathways. You can apply year-round through the Self-Service Portal, local Human Service Zone offices, or by contacting the Customer Support Center. Once approved, you remain eligible without annual reapplication.
What is the income limit for SNAP benefits in North Dakota?
SNAP sets gross income limits at 200% of the federal poverty level, which equals $2,608 monthly for one person and $5,358 for a four-person household. North Dakota has no asset limit for most SNAP applicants. Households with members age 60 or older or with disabilities that exceed the gross income limit can alternatively qualify by meeting net income requirements and a $4,500 asset limit.
Can veterans get grant money for medical expenses in North Dakota?
Yes, the North Dakota Department of Veterans Affairs Grant Program provides financial assistance to low-income veterans and dependents for urgent medical needs. The Hardship Assistance Grant offers up to $3,000 per year for hearing aids, eyeglasses, dental care, housing, and medical transportation. Eligibility requires monthly income below $1,200 for single persons and liquid assets under $2,000.
Do I have to pay back government grants in North Dakota?
No, grants never require repayment. This distinguishes them from loans like the Veteran Aid Loan or Beginning Entrepreneur Loan Guarantee Program, which involve repayment obligations. Housing assistance, energy grants, workforce training funds, and emergency assistance are all non-repayable forms of financial aid.
Where can I apply for housing assistance grants in North Dakota?
Contact the North Dakota Housing Finance Agency (NDHFA) for information about available housing programs. The Housing Incentive Fund provides gap assistance for construction and rehabilitation projects. The Helping HAND program operates through non-profit organizations by invitation from NDHFA, not directly to individuals. Visit the NDHFA website or call their office to learn about current funding availability and application procedures.
How much money can I receive from Technical Skills Training Grants?
Track A programs for new accelerated training receive up to $200,000. Track B programs for internal employee upskilling qualify for up to $100,000. Track C programs supporting workforce automation training can receive up to $200,000. All tracks require a 1:1 match from the applicant organization. Applications are submitted to the North Dakota Department of Commerce.
What happens if I have an energy emergency like a shutoff notice?
Contact the Customer Support Center immediately with your shutoff or disconnection notice. LIHEAP provides crisis assistance for energy emergencies including shutoffs, fuel shortages, and minor heating repairs. Emergency assistance is available October 1 through March 31 with heat loss emergencies addressed within 18 business hours of application. Write “Emergency Assistance Needed” on your application and attach your disconnection notice.