Runway is powered by the Center for Innovation’s (CFI) Start-up Fund and The Nistler College of Business & Public Administration. This is a two-phase program that combines start-up training, mentorship by dedicated staff & seasoned business owners, networking with peers and industry experts, and access to up to $10,000 in mini-grant funding to support UND student ventures. Runway is offered to any UND student or Alumni during the UND academic year.

Reach out to receive more information!

Drop by for our weekly Business Check-in every Friday from 1-2 pm (Central Time) with the Center for Innovation team. This is your time to check in, bring up ideas, and get fresh insights to support your business’s growth. Whether you’re exploring new solutions, navigating a challenge, or just want to bounce an idea off someone who gets it, we’re here to help you make your innovative ideas take flight!
What’s on Offer?

* Ask Us Anything – Our team is ready to talk through any questions you have about your business goals, brainstorming ideas, or resources that could support your next steps. You’ll leave with practical, grounded tips you can apply right away.
* Win a Free Brainstorming Session! Got a question? Submit it here before stopping by, and you might win a free Solution Sprint with our Innovation Training Specialist, Tamara Bertram, to dig deeper into your ideas!

Can’t Make It In-Person? We’ve got you covered with virtual office hours on demand! Just schedule a time that works for you here: Schedule with Tamara
No need to come with all the answers – just an open mind and your next big idea. We look forward to seeing you!

Join us for Coffee and Connections on February 7th from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM at the UND Center for Innovation! This informal gathering is the perfect opportunity for members to enjoy a cup of coffee, donuts, connect with fellow innovators, and start the year inspired!

Have any questions? Reach out to [email protected]

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Join the UND Center for Innovation and Grand Forks Region EDC for the 2025 Launch of InternGF! Enjoy breakfast, learn about InternGF internship funding opportunities, hear from past participants, and celebrate successes!

InternGF is a unique partnership between the UND Center for Innovation and the Grand Forks Region Economic Development Corporation. It is designed to introduce UND students to high-wage, in-demand careers and employers in the Grand Forks region. The goal of the program is to aid in local recruitment and retention efforts by showcasing regional companies, career opportunities, and community assets.

Learn More

Join us for Coffee and Connections on March 7th from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM at the UND Center for Innovation! This informal gathering is the perfect opportunity for members to enjoy a cup of coffee, donuts, connect with fellow innovators, and start the year inspired!

Have any questions? Reach out to [email protected]

Join us every first Friday of the month for Coffee & Connections from 8:00 AM to 9:00 AM at the UND Center for Innovation! This informal gathering is the perfect opportunity for CFI members & partners to enjoy a cup of coffee, donuts, connect with fellow innovators, and start their day inspired!

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Grand Awards is an evening dedicated to celebrating local entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to our community. Hosted by Evolve GF and the Grand Forks Entrepreneurial Ecosystem, this event showcases the innovation, resilience, and success defining our business landscape.

Get Tickets

Join us on April 29, 2025, from 6:00 to 8:30 PM at the UND Memorial Union for LAUNCH, a high-energy demo day showcasing startups to investors, mentors, and industry experts. Enjoy dynamic pitches, live demos, networking over appetizers, and a chance to connect with leaders shaping the future of innovation.

Learn More/RSVP