North Dakota HHS awards Opioid Settlement grant to Goldfinch Health for prevention program

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) has announced the recipients of the latest round of Opioid Settlement Fund grants, including funding for Goldfinch Health’s Billion Pill Pledge program.

“Opioid settlement funds allow us to invest in programs that save lives, support recovery and build healthier communities,” said Christopher Joseph, chair of the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee and general counsel for the Governor’s Office. “We’re proud to partner with organizations doing the vital work of prevention, treatment and recovery every day across the state.”

The current grant cycle follows North Dakota’s continued participation in national opioid settlements with manufacturers and distributors. The state is projected to receive approximately $60 million over 18 years, which must be used in alignment with national settlement guidelines to address the impact of the opioid crisis.

“Prevention is a critical component of comprehensive opioid abatement strategies,” said Brand Newland, PharmD, MBA, CEO of Goldfinch Health. “By working with hospitals and medical professionals to optimize pain management and post-surgery prescribing practices, we can prevent opioid misuse before it begins. We’re excited to get started and partner with North Dakota’s healthcare community to make a meaningful and sustaining impact.”

The North Dakota Legislature appropriated funds to HHS for the 2025-2027 biennium to continue expanding access to evidence-based services. Entities applying for funding were encouraged to align their proposals with priority recommendations from the Opioid Settlement Advisory Committee.

“These awards reflect our commitment to helping North Dakotans access the support and services they need,” said Pamela Sagness, executive director of the HHS Behavioral Health Division.

For more information on the Opioid Settlement Fund and a full list of current and past grantees, visit hhs.nd.gov/opioids/settlement.