Our Mission
The UND Center for Innovation Foundation’s mission is to foster innovation, nurture creative ideas, and empower aspiring entrepreneurs in Grand Forks, ND. We achieve this by providing entrepreneurial education, expert coaching, and serving as a local business resource hub.
Together, We Drive The Future.
$30 Million+
Capital Raised
Capital Raised
11,157 Sq. Ft.
of Incubator Space
of Incubator Space
150+
Employed by Incubator Members
Employed by Incubator Members
100+
Clients Funded By Innovate ND
Clients Funded By Innovate ND
25+
Student Interns
Student Interns
Our services/programs
Whether you are developing an idea, are an entrepreneur starting your business, or a company seeking to grow, at the UND Center for Innovation Foundation (CFIF), we transform your goals into reality with the support of our experts. Come and discover how we can help you!
Our Experts can help you with the following and more
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News
- De-Risking One’s Idea
Great ideas are exciting — but excitement alone doesn’t build successful businesses. In this piece, Startup Coach Sona Lesmeister explores why “de-risking” your idea through customer discovery is one of the most important steps an entrepreneur can take. By testing assumptions, seeking honest market feedback, and understanding real customer problems, innovators can reduce risk and uncover even stronger opportunities. Before you invest your time and resources, do the homework — your future business depends on it. - Member Spotlight: Sharp Biomedical
Founded in 2024 by UND doctoral student Dan Newman, Sharp Biomedical develops minimally invasive solutions for chronic pain care. With support from UND’s Center for Innovation and gBeta, the company refined its concept and secured early growth momentum as it advances toward market launch. - What Legos Can Teach Us About the Importance of Process Documentation
Discover why process documentation matters and how clear workflows help teams avoid mistakes and achieve consistent results.
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Calendar of Events
Now Hiring: In-person Marketing Intern for Summer 2026 🎉![]()
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Are you a UND student looking to gain hands-on experience? Join our team and help create content, manage social media, and support marketing campaigns.![]()
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Interested? Visit bit.ly/4uffEty to apply!![]()
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Closing on: April 3rd, 2026![]()
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