 Historically dependent on local agriculture , the city 's economy now encompasses higher education , defense , health care , manufacturing , food processing , and scientific research . Grand Forks is served by Grand Forks International Airport and Grand Forks Air Force Base . The city 's University of North Dakota is the oldest institution of higher education in the state . The Alerus Center and Ralph Engelstad Arena host athletic and other events , while the North Dakota Museum of Art and Chester Fritz Auditorium are the city 's largest cultural venues . 
