NDSU has begun a multi-year initiative to obtain an Innovation and Economic Prosperity designation.
NDSU has begun a multi-year initiative to obtain an Innovation and Economic Prosperity designation. The IEP program, an initiative by the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities, recognizes universities that encourage economic engagement in their communities through innovation, workforce development and public service.
The IEP program aims to highlight how universities contribute to regional economic growth and provide them with tools to enhance their role in nurturing innovation and prosperity.
Earning the APLU IEP designation demonstrates a university’s commitment to innovation and economic impact. It signals to stakeholders, including government agencies, businesses and community organizations, that NDSU is committed to economic engagement and development.
It also helps build stronger relationships with industry, local governments and economic development organizations, potentially leading to additional funding opportunities, collaborations and research partnerships.
Participating universities complete a up to a three-year assessment of their local economic development impact. Those that meet the program's standards earn the IEP designation, which helps them strengthen partnerships with businesses, government agencies, and other stakeholders. Once designated, NDSU will join a network of IEP-designated institutions, gaining access to best practices and strategies for economic engagement.
NDSU was accepted into a cohort in late 2024, joining seven other universities and cultivating a vibrant community of practice.
NDSU Vice Provost for Assessment and Strategic Initiatives Jeff Boyer and Director of Innovation and Economic Development Cindy Graffeo are leading the IEP process.
“For the remainder of the year, the IEP Designation Committee and the Office of Innovation and Economic Development will conduct an internal audit of all programs, initiatives and touchpoints the university has with industry partners,” Graffeo said. “Faculty, staff and community members may be invited to participate in interviews, focus groups, or surveys to help shape the strategies and work that will emerge from the IEP process.”
NDSU President David Cook said NDSU’s impact to communities and businesses in the state are core to the university’s land-grant mission.
“With extension offices in 53 counties and seven Research Extension Centers in North Dakota that offer a testing ground for prototypes and a platform to serve and support citizens, NDSU’s economic impact reaches every county in North Dakota,” Cook said. “We know that the challenges our communities face are multi-faceted and intersectional, and we look forward to engaging stakeholders to explore topics such as talent and workforce development, innovation and entrepreneurship, and social, cultural and community development through community engagement initiatives.”
Graffeo and Boyer will lead the process of drafting plans and strategies to submit to APLU in mid-2026. They expect to receive IEP designation decision by early 2027.