ND APEX Accelerator Welcomes Robert Graham as New Government Contracting Advisor

The North Dakota APEX Accelerator is excited to welcome Robert Graham as its new Government Contracting Advisor, bringing more than 30 years of experience in operations, corporate leadership, acquisition management, and defense contracting. In his new role, Robert will support North Dakota businesses by helping them navigate the often-complex world of federal, state, and local government contracting.

As part of the ND APEX Accelerator team, Robert will offer one-on-one advising, lead statewide training sessions, and expand outreach efforts to ensure businesses across North Dakota have the knowledge and resources they need to compete successfully in the government marketplace.

“We are pleased to welcome Robert Graham to our team,” said Dave Kleppe, ND APEX Program Manager. “His military background in space operations, technology, and program management, combined with his experience as an instructor, will be a tremendous asset to our program.”

Bringing Decades of Experience to North Dakota Businesses

Robert holds an MBA from Eldorado University in California and a Bachelor’s degree in Marketing. His extensive career has spanned both sides of the government contracting process—from managing contracts to pursuing them—giving him a unique perspective on how businesses can position themselves for success.

With deep expertise in supply chain oversight, contract negotiation, and proposal development, Robert will help clients streamline their contracting efforts, strengthen competitive strategies, and confidently pursue new opportunities in the public sector.

“Robert’s broad experience across government, defense, and industry brings valuable insight to our mission of helping North Dakota businesses compete in the government marketplace,” said Tiffany Ford, Director of the UND Center for Business Engagement & Development. “He will play a key role in building relationships and driving impact for businesses statewide.”

Supporting Growth Through Guidance and Education

The ND APEX Accelerator provides businesses with a range of resources—including training webinars, in-person workshops, and personalized advising—to help them understand and succeed in government contracting. The program’s mission is to make contracting opportunities more accessible while equipping North Dakota businesses with the tools to grow and thrive.

About ND APEX Accelerator

Established by Congress in 1985, the APEX Accelerator program (formerly known as PTAC) was created to help small businesses access and succeed in the government marketplace. The program is funded through cooperative agreements with the Department of Defense, with additional support from the Bank of North Dakota, and is hosted by the University of North Dakota’s Nistler College of Business and Public Administration.

For more information about the ND APEX Accelerator and upcoming training opportunities, visit und.edu/ndapex.