Senate Bill 2390 — described by witnesses as a Rural Catalyst Grant program — drew testimony that the proposal would help small towns access capital for community projects that often fail to qualify for other state or federal funds.

Don Mant, executive director of the Red River Regional Council, told the committee the proposed grant would serve communities up to 8,500 people, strengthen regional collaboration, and encourage philanthropy and local matches. Mant gave examples from his region: Gilby (a new HVAC need for a community center), Park River (a proposed $20,000,000 wellness center and ice rink complex intended to host tournaments) and a Walsh County childcare project seeking a final $370,000 to complete a $1,400,000 expansion that would add 35 childcare slots.

Mant said smaller projects could use a streamlined application while larger projects would receive assistance from regional council staff. He also cited regional experience securing federal funding: the regional councils reported securing over $365,000,000 for projects statewide over five years and argued councils are equipped to administer funds and ensure accountability.

Witnesses urged adding a companion proposal to increase regional council staffing capacity (House Bill 1524). Priscilla (Briselda) Herrera, executive director of the Service Basin Planning Council, described the funding mix in her region: federal planning grants, county dues that serve as matching funds, small contracts for services, and a loan portfolio that supports local small businesses. Herrera said regional councils play a “boots on the ground” role preparing projects so communities can apply for state and federal funding.

Supporters, including Peril Grossman (North Dakota Soybean Growers Association), said the program’s match requirement and reporting would increase transparency and effectiveness. Committee members asked about program administration, match waivers for very small communities and how the proposal interacts with other state programs. Mant said the proposal includes a waiver mechanism if a community cannot meet the match.

Committee members did not take a formal vote during the hearing. Witnesses urged that the program be designed to allow small projects quick access to funds and bigger projects the planning support necessary to assemble multi‑source financing.