News & Events

Akiptan and GROW South Dakota receive grants to expand economic  opportunity for rural and tribal entrepreneurs statewide Mobridge, SD – Aug. 11, 2025 – The Wells Fargo Foundation recently announced a  $1 million philanthropic investment to support small business growth across South  Dakota, with a focus on empowering entrepreneurs in rural and tribal communities. The  funding will be distributed evenly between Akiptan, a Native-led community development  financial institution, and GROW South Dakota (GROW SD), a statewide economic  development organization, providing critical resources and capital to small business  owners and agricultural producers throughout the state. As Senate Majority Leader John Thune (R-S.D.) highlighted...

Did you know that Grow SD can connect you with a network of business support services, many of which are free? In honor of National Nonprofit Day on August 17, here’s a quick refresher about those resources. From consulting to creative funding, we’ve got you covered when it comes to taking your operations to the next level. Business Training OpportunitiesStaying ahead of the game is key to successfully growing your business. That’s why we offer multiple training opportunities throughout the year that cover everything from Canva to QuickBooks. CybersecurityReady to level up your digital defense skills? GROW South Dakota is partnering with Dakota State...

Getting the keys to your first home is an exciting event! But making it happen comes with its own challenges that can be overwhelming for anyone.What if I don’t qualify for traditional funding? What if I don’t have enough for a down payment?They’re tough questions… But GROW SD has your answers!As we celebrate National Homeownership Month throughout June, we wanted to take a moment to talk about the various services we offer to help you turn your dream of homeownership into a reality.Every Step of the WayDid you know that GROW SD offers a variety of home ownership programs that...

Starting your own business is a dream come true. But turning those dreams into a reality? Sometimes, it’s a challenge!  Did you know GROW South Dakota was created with the specific purpose of helping promote and foster economic development in the rural corners of the state?As we celebrate National Economic Development Week (May 11-17), we thought it’d be a great time to outline the resources we offer, from developing a business plan to special lending programs, all designed to GROW your business dreams into a reality!Small Business? Think Big! Entrepreneurs can get discouraged by the cost of operating a business. But you...

The Aberdeen Small Business Development Center (SBDC) office was recognized recently for 40 Years in Business by the Aberdeen Area Chamber Commerce.  The SBDC program began in South Dakota in 1985.  The Aberdeen office is one of seven across the state and is hosted by GROW South Dakota.  The recognition was presented at the Chamber’s Business After Hours event hosted by Northern Valley Communications on May 7, 2025.  (L to R) Rachael Cramond, SBDC Business Consultant; Kelly Weaver, SBDC Regional Director; and Gail Ochs, Aberdeen Area Chamber of Commerce CEO.Kelly Weaver, SBDC Regional Director, offered a few comments.  “Over the...

Starting a business can be overwhelming, and financing is just one piece of the puzzle. Fortunately, GROW South Dakota has knowledgeable staff who are ready to help you get started. When Derek Diedrich, owner of Fun Time Rentals, was planning his venture, he sought advice from a local banker who recommended the GROW South Dakota business loan program. Reflecting on their journey, Derek shared, "We had never owned our own business. Now, we own two: Fun Time Rentals and Fun Time Adventures." He added, "We started as a seasonal rental company offering just boats, campers, and jet skis. Now, we've...

It was a journey filled with ups and downs, but Alexis's dream of purchasing her first home became a reality with the help of GROW South Dakota. Her story is a testament to the organization's commitment to supporting individuals on their path to homeownership.Alexis had always dreamed of having a place to call her own, a space where she could build memories, and a house she could truly make into a home. However, it was a challenge to save for a down payment and navigate the complex home-buying process.That is when she discovered GROW South Dakota and its down payment...

Each year, the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) honors small businesses and entrepreneurs across the country for their community leadership and achievements. In conjunction with that, the SBA South Dakota District Office has selected Fallon Deutsch of Langford as the Young Entrepreneur of the Year. Fallon is the owner of Distinctly Drey, an online boutique that offers a variety of different clothing, tops, bottoms, outerwear, loungewear, clothing for toddlers, and so much more. Fallon stays on top of fashion trends and changes her clothing with the seasons. She frequently runs sales, and one of these sales includes the "Cyber Monday Mystery Bags".Fallon’s...