Reflects Statewide Nature of Mission and Impact

Bismarck – Gateway to Science, North Dakota’s hands-on science center, announced a name change to “North Dakota’s Gateway to Science.” The Board of Directors has made this change in recognition of the support received from the State of North Dakota, and from individuals and businesses throughout the state.

“Updating our name to include North Dakota reflects the statewide nature of our mission and impact,” said Beth Demke, Executive Director. “Our interactive gallery is located in Bismarck, where we host visitors from all across the state. We also serve students and families through our mobile program that brings our unique, hands-on STEM programming to North Dakota schools and communities.”

In order to expand the capacity of North Dakota’s Gateway to Science (NDGTS) to serve the entire state, a new 43,000 square foot facility is being constructed on Canary Avenue, across the street from the MDU Resources Community Bowl. A project of this size and scope requires the commitment of many dedicated partners. Northwest Contracting has resumed construction of the building designed by JLG Architects. Science Museum of Minnesota has designed one-of-a-kind hands-on exhibits that tell the story of innovation and opportunity in North Dakota with experiences focused on energy, agriculture, health care, transportation, and more. Bismarck Industries and Bank of North Dakota have helped NDGTS explore financing options to realize the full vision of the project.

North Dakota’s Gateway to Science will be able expand its current programming with the larger facility, both onsite and as the headquarters for its statewide outreach program.

• The science center will include 13,700 square feet of gallery space, or 5 1/2 times more room for exhibits than the current gallery.
• The facility also has an education wing including a laboratory classroom, and indoor and outdoor learning space.
• More than 3,500 square feet of deck space wraps around the science center’s south exhibits gallery, looking south and west over the Missouri River.
• The second floor holds the 7,800-square-foot innovation space, fostering an environment that helps build 21st century skills, such as collaboration, creativity, and critical thinking, which are important in the classroom, the workplace, and the public sphere.

To learn more about the vision for North Dakota’s Gateway to Science, visit gatewaytoscience.org/about.