News & Events

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...

Franklin D. Roosevelt once said, “Happiness is not in the mere possession of money. It lies in the joy of achievement. In the thrill of creative effort.”One of the major joys of achievement for most folks involves buying a home. But the process can sometimes feel overwhelming, confusing or downright impossible.Did you know that GROW South Dakota is a HUD-approved Housing Counseling Agency and Housing Education Resource Organization (HERO) offering individual and online education geared towards helping you achieve homeownership?As we celebrate National Financial Literacy Month throughout April, we’re encouraging residents to take advantage of our financial literacy programs related...

South Dakota is known for its opportunities, resilience, and close-knit communities. Central to these values is the importance of safe and affordable housing. GROW South Dakota, a statewide nonprofit organization, diligently ensures that housing is necessary and a cornerstone for building better lives and thriving communities.The Role of GROW South Dakota in HousingSince its inception, GROW South Dakota has been a pillar of support for homeowners and prospective buyers throughout the state. By offering tailored programs and loan products, the organization helps individuals and families achieve their dream of homeownership. These efforts address immediate housing needs and contribute to long-term...

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...