North Dakota has launched the first phase of ND Gateway, an online portal designed to simplify how entrepreneurs and business owners interact with state government.
The portal, developed by North Dakota Information Technology and partner agencies, provides centralized access to key business tools and resources, according to a June 18 announcement from the state, with the goal of ND Gateway to become a one-stop shop for business services.
Services being provided through the gateway include registrations, annual reports, tax and insurance compliance, and tutorials.
“This is an exciting first step of many for ND Gateway,” said Evonne Amundson, the state’s chief business application officer, in a statement. “Business leaders should spend their time on the needs of their customers and staff, not drowning in redundant layers of bureaucracy.”
ND Gateway features a business interest form to help entrepreneurs share ideas directly with the state and receive timely support. An additional personalized business checklist compiles guidance from five state agencies to assist users in starting or modifying a business in North Dakota.
The portal also includes an updated form on starting a business that connects users to the Small Business Development Center and the Department of Commerce’s Community Services and Economic Development teams.
Inaugural state agencies supporting the portal are the Secretary of State, Office of the State Tax Commissioner, Job Service North Dakota, Workforce Safety & Insurance, and the Department of Commerce.
“This portal puts citizens and other users in the hub of business support, with a ‘no wrong door’ approach,” said Amundson. “If someone currently knows where to get business-related services, they will still have direct access through individual agency websites. But new and returning users alike will find NDGateway.nd.gov a convenient option for services and information.”