The Greater North Dakota Chamber and the North Dakota Department of Career and Technical Education announced on Apr. 6 a new partnership aimed at expanding access to the AP Business with Personal Finance course for students across the state.
This initiative is designed to help align classroom instruction with skills that employers are seeking, addressing workforce needs in North Dakota. The AP Business with Personal Finance course provides students with practical business knowledge, including entrepreneurship, marketing, finance, and strategic decision-making through hands-on learning experiences.
“This is exactly the kind of partnership our business community needs right now,” said Arik Spencer, President and CEO of the Greater North Dakota Chamber. “Employers are looking for talent with real-world skills, and educators are working hard to prepare students for an increasingly complex economy. This course helps bridge that gap. It’s a smart investment in our workforce and in the long-term competitiveness of our region.”
To support teachers implementing this course, GNDC will offer travel stipends up to $2,000 for participating educators to cover training expenses. Wayde Sick, Director of Career and Technical Education for North Dakota, said: “This partnership represents a powerful commitment to the future of our students. By investing in our educators, we are expanding access to transformative learning that develops real-world skills and meaningful career pathways. When we strengthen our teachers, we strengthen opportunities for students—giving them skills and confidence to achieve their full potential.”
The collaboration also seeks ongoing engagement between business leaders and educators so curriculum remains relevant while providing opportunities for student exposure to real-world applications.
The Greater North Dakota Chamber participates in the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Federation Partner Program according to its official website. The organization advocates for businesses by promoting free enterprise according to its official website, serves as a unifying voice for economic prosperity across North Dakota according to its official website, utilizes experienced lobbyists on behalf of businesses according to its official website, provides members resources such as publications like Dakota Digest enews as well as events including Policy Summit according to its official website, and functions as a key business advocacy association within the state according to its official website.
Additional information about participation opportunities can be found at https://apcentral.collegeboard.org/courses/ap-business-personal-finance.
