The North Dakota UAS Council has added the Grand Forks Downtown Development Association as its newest member, linking the state’s drone industry to its downtown community.
The North Dakota UAS Council has welcomed the Grand Forks Downtown Development Association (DDA) as its newest member, according to a June 9 announcement from the council. The council says the partnership strengthens the connection between one of the nation’s leading autonomous systems hubs and the community that supports its growth.
Grand Forks anchors much of North Dakota’s drone activity, including Project ULTRA at Grand Sky and the statewide Vantis BVLOS network, both previously reported by Dronelife.
Linking industry and community
According to the council, a thriving innovation ecosystem depends on more than research facilities, test sites, and business parks. It also relies on welcoming public spaces, local businesses, community events, and a sense of place that helps attract and retain talent.
Dr. Matt Dunlevy, CEO of the ND UAS Council, said building “a truly inclusive, world-class Unmanned Autonomous Systems (UAS) ecosystem” requires “active engagement with our local communities, Main Street businesses, and regional development leaders.” He said aligning with the DDA strengthens the council’s mission “to share best practices, communicate regional goals, and build a vibrant community that supports tech talent and economic growth right here in Grand Forks.”
Jill Proctor, President and CEO of the Downtown Development Association, said community growth needs to keep pace with the region’s drone industry. According to Proctor, “as Grand Forks continues to grow as a leader in autonomous systems, it’s important that our community grows alongside it.” She said the DDA is “excited to help strengthen connections between industry and community, creating a region where innovation thrives and people want to live, work, and build their future.”
In a statement, the council said, “when our community spaces and cutting-edge industries align, the entire region thrives,” and welcomed the DDA team “as we continue to champion innovation both in the skies and on our local streets.”
About the North Dakota UAS Council
The council describes itself as the collective voice for the unmanned systems industry in North Dakota. According to the group, it brings together a statewide network of commercial enterprises, nonprofit organizations, academic institutions, and state agencies to advance proactive advocacy, information sharing, and infrastructure growth.
About the Grand Forks DDA
The Grand Forks Downtown Development Association advocates for, promotes, and strengthens the downtown community. Since 2013, according to the group, the DDA has activated public spaces and helped bring new ideas to the district. The organization operates with a full-time staff of four, a volunteer board, and more than 175 partners and members.
More information is available at the North Dakota UAS Council and the Grand Forks Downtown Development Association.
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