Grow SD: Connecting You to a Network of Business Support

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 Opportunities

Staying 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. 

Cybersecurity

Ready to level up your digital defense skills? 

GROW South Dakota is partnering with Dakota State University to bring you a Cybersecurity Class on August 12th from 2:00 to 3:00 p.m. 

Learn how to protect yourself from online threats! Whether you're a beginner or looking to sharpen your skills, this course covers everything from password security to hacking.

Registration is free! Click here to sign up. 

Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program

Mentorship opportunities and free educational courses are all for the taking as part of the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program. 

Any small business owner can register for free and customize a program specific to their needs, which covers topics such as: 

• Making sound business spending decisions
• How to improve your search rankings with meta tags
• Supercharging your email marketing campaigns

Small Business Development Center

Helping entrepreneurs develop a business plan. Preparing financial projections. These are just some of the no-cost (and confidential) business management consulting services offered by the Small Business Development Center (SBDC). Grow SD has been the host organization for the SBDC since January 2000.

“As our host organization, GROW has assured that northeastern South Dakota has had the resources of SBDC counselors available to existing and potential business owners,” said SBDC Regional Director Kelly Weaver. “The collaboration has provided seamless services to GROW business loan borrowers that are getting counseling services, while SBDC staff are being informed on the many programs that GROW offers, which can be helpful to new and growing businesses.  Unique to other SBDCs in South Dakota, GROW and SBDC staff collaborate to offer a variety of business trainings.”  

And while opening a business is one thing, staying in business is another. That’s why the SBDC also provides research and industry benchmark comparisons so that you can remain competitive and plan for future expansion.

For any entrepreneur who has yet to utilize the consulting services offered by SBDC, Weaver has this to offer:

“First of all, the price is right!  Our Services are free and confidential, and we've worked with hundreds of businesses in all kinds of industries, stages, and situations,” she said. “For most people, this is the first time they have ventured into business ownership or business financing, and they could benefit from our experience.”  

The SBDC helps entrepreneurs evaluate the financial aspects of their businesses in a user-friendly way and even prepares a package that meets the expectations of lenders.  

“This assistance gives them greater confidence to move forward and helps them avoid common mistakes that can slow the financing and startup process,” she said.

Business Financing

Speaking of the future, are you looking to grow your operations? Regardless of whether you want to boost your working capital, buy real estate, or purchase equipment, you may qualify for one of our lending options.

Loan amounts and interest rates vary. Terms are based on the type of collateral you provide.

Even better? We can partner with your bank when a joint financing solution is needed.

Contact one of our loan representatives today at 605-698-7654 for more information! Or, click here to browse our funding source directory.

Ready to GROW?

Regardless of what your business needs, we’re here to guide you through the process by providing you with specialized services that are often offered at no cost. 
Are you ready to GROW your entrepreneurial dreams? Contact us today!