# North Dakota Launches ND Row at AUVSI Xponential

North Dakota state government has launched its first coordinated ND Row at the 2026 AUVSI Xponential conference to showcase the state's leadership in unmanned and autonomous systems (UAS), defense innovation, and advanced manufacturing. This initiative brings together key state organizations and industry partners to enhance engagement with defense and federal stakeholders, aiming to strengthen North Dakota's position in the national security and defense technology sectors.

- The coordinated ND Row platform signals increased state-level collaboration and alignment with defense and national security procurement priorities.
- Procurement professionals should note the growing opportunities for UAS and autonomous systems vendors to engage with North Dakota's ecosystem, which includes the North Dakota Department of Commerce, University of North Dakota, and Northern Plains UAS Test Site.
- This initiative may lead to expanded contracts and partnerships focused on defense innovation and advanced manufacturing within the state.
- Companies specializing in autonomy and defense technologies can leverage ND Row to build relationships and explore procurement opportunities with federal and defense agencies present at AUVSI Xponential.

**Jurisdictions:** sled
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Information Technology
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Digital Infrastructure
**Published:** April 10, 2026

### Government Entities
- North Dakota Department of Commerce
- University of North Dakota (UND)
- Northern Plains UAS Test Site

### Key Quotes
> I'm excited to be part of demonstrating the strength of the ND ecosystem. This strength has been developed through vision and hard work that have spanned decades. ND Row brings real solutions to real challenges and helps the state, region and nation realize the benefits of autonomy through insight, innovation, and partnership.
> — Dr. Mark Askelson

> As North Dakota aligns more closely with defense and national security needs, our ecosystem is operating with a new level of coordination.
> — Landon Johnson

### Sources
- [North Dakota debuts coordinated ND Row at AUVSI Xponential conference | North Dakota State Government - ND Portal](https://www.nd.gov/news/north-dakota-debuts-coordinated-nd-row-auvsi-xponential-conference) - ND