Defense Contracting: The U.S. Army selected Texas-based M1 Support Services to lead Flight School Next, a up-to-$10 billion, contractor-run overhaul of helicopter pilot training that includes partners such as the University of North Dakota Aerospace Foundation. Special Session Watch: North Dakota lawmakers are weighing a Sept. 2 special session agenda that includes kratom restrictions and a fix for the stalled Military Gallery—proposed as a $35 million Bank of North Dakota line of credit with oversight and potential taxpayer backstop if donations fall short. Energy Policy: The U.S. Department of Energy canceled its National Interest Electric Transmission Corridors designations, ending three proposed corridor efforts that had reached into the region. Manufacturing Growth: Cirrus expanded its Grand Forks facility, adding 30,000+ square feet and new capacity to support demand for its SR Series and Vision Jet. Finance & Accounting: Fargo-based Eide Bailly will acquire MUN, extending its footprint across California and Hawaii. Ag Economy: American Crystal Sugar kicked off its 2026 pre-pile sugarbeet harvest in the Red River Valley, starting factory runs weeks ahead of full stockpile harvest. Community Giving: First Community Credit Union launched a new foundation to fund education, health and community enrichment across North Dakota and western Minnesota. Workforce & Safety: The NTDC narrowed to 45 finalists in Pittsburgh, advancing drivers with hundreds of millions of accident-free miles.