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Business Development

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Several portions of ground beef being inspected at a meat processing facility.

Strengthening Local Processing Act Addresses Local Food Supply Chain Issues

A comprehensive bill designed to address livestock supply chain issues and support small and mid-size meat processors has been introduced as federal legislation. The Strengthening Local Processing Act provides small plants with the funds needed to grow and expand, and supports a scale-appropriate approach to small scale slaughter and processing.

Dakota Fresh Food Hub Logo

Dakota Fresh Food Hub Continues Connecting Local Farmers With Local Consumers

Interest in local foods continues to soar among consumers nationwide. Here in South Dakota, the Dakota Fresh Food Hub in the southeastern corner of the state is helping meet that local demand by providing an array of local foods to wholesale and retail customers.

A male conference attendee in a black cap constructing a homemade dream catcher. A woman sitting next to him is closely watching.

2019 Energize! Conference Evaluation Report

Evaluation Report for the 2019 Energize Conference held in Lemmon, South Dakota.

two young women smiling and sitting at a table taking notes

Sample Questions to Ask a Current Business Owner/Operator

If you are thinking of starting a business, it makes sense to ask questions of current business owners in similar fields to give you a sense of owning and operating a business yourself.

small group of people outside a mobile food hub. Photo by Shakeitha Stone, USDA

The Benefits of Food Hubs

Food hubs provide another marketing option to producers who do not have time to participate in a farmers market or other direct marketing venues.

A room of people sit around tables and listen to the young entrepreneurs panel at the 2023 Energize conference in Wessington Springs

Hot Springs to host SDSU Extension 2024 Energize Conference

December 29, 2023

South Dakota State University Extension Community Vitality and the community of Hot Springs will host the 2024 Energize Exploring Innovative Rural Communities Conference on May 22 and 23, 2024.

Board members concluding a meeting.

Board Fundamentals: Setting the Foundation

Effective meetings, clear procedures, and strong leadership are key components of a successful board foundation. Learn some expert tips for building and maintaining a highly effective board in your community.

Clipboard with draft of storytelling notes.

Telling Your Organization’s Story: Building Board Competency in Fundraising and Marketing

Marketing, fundraising, and storytelling are closely linked activities. By leveraging the power of narratives and implementing strategic marketing techniques, boards can supplement their strategic goals and the tangible work of their organizations.

a woman using a laptop to join a video meeting with other people

South Dakota Remote Works

The South Dakota Remote Works program is designed to equip workers with the tools and skills needed to work from home as a remote worker, freelancer, or entrepreneur.

Woman working remotely in a home office.

Why South Dakotans Should Care About Remote Work

Remote work skyrocketed in 2020. While some of the advantages of working remotely (or having an option to work remotely) might be obvious, other benefits could surprise you.