Employers from northeast North Dakota met virtually with representatives from Cherokee Federal, a national workforce partner that helps connect employers with foreign-born individuals who are already legally authorized to work in the U.S. The North Dakota Global Talent Office and Strengthen ND also presented. Originally planned as an in-person event, the meeting was held online Tuesday, December 9, due to weather conditions.
During the session, Cherokee Federal introduced its North Dakota Onward Movement Partnership, an initiative focused on regions with strong economies and workforce shortages. Through this partnership, Cherokee Federal collaborates with economic development organizations, property managers, trade associations, and employers to create welcoming pathways for new workers. The effort includes working closely with employers to understand hiring needs, address challenges, and co-design effective onboarding strategies that support both business growth and humanitarian goals. The result is a reliable, ready-to-work labor force that strengthens both businesses and help communities thrive.
Beginning in May, Cherokee Federal partnered with the State of North Dakota and employers across the state in a pilot program. This pilot included Marvin in Grafton, who was able to secure 29 individuals with meaningful employment. In total, the initiative has brought 53 individuals to the community of Grafton, including 11 school-aged children. Building on that success, Cherokee Federal is expanding its efforts in northeast North Dakota and is seeking additional employer partnerships.
The Global Talent Office shared resources available to employers including EnGen, an English upskilling tool, and several workforce grant programs available to employers. Strengthen ND is partnering with the Global Talent Office and Cherokee Federal to support the facilitation of the Dakota Roots Workforce Fund, which moves the pilot program to an employer-funded model.
Cherokee Federal is the economic engine of the Cherokee Nation, the largest Native American tribe in the U.S. with more than 470,000 tribal citizens. 100% of Cherokee Federal’s profits are reinvested to support self-sufficiency of Cherokee Nation citizens through job opportunities and investments in health, education and housing programs.
The session recording is available here.
Employers interested in connecting with Cherokee Federal, are encouraged to reach out to Kristi Kasprick kristi@redriverrc.com for an introduction. Kasprick is the Project Manager for Real. Good. Northeast North Dakota, the area’s talent attraction and workforce development initiative.