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Small Businesses

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A girl holds a sheep in a barn and a blond woman stands behind her smiling

SDSU Extension cohort programs offer immersive experiences for emerging producers, entrepreneurs and community leaders

August 31, 2023

In addition to providing training on specific topics and skills, SDSU Extension’s cohort programs help people overcome challenges to build their support network and develop a deep knowledge base.

The newest SDSU Extension cohort program, Emerging Sheep Producers, started in September 2022.

Successful Energize! conference draws community leaders to Wessington Springs

July 25, 2023

From May 31 to June 1, Wessington Springs hosted nearly 120 community leaders from across the state for the 2023 Energize! Conference, organized by South Dakota State University Extension’s Community Vitality team.

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.

Row of small businesses in Kimball, South Dakota.

Strengthening Businesses

Is your business established, new or somewhere in between? Our team has resources for every stage.

Young man and woman working on a construction plan.

Creating Vibrant Places

SDSU Extension’s community vitality team supports citizens in their efforts to enhance the qualities that make their community special.

Three women sit at a booth in a small cafe.

Community Vitality helping train South Dakota board members for service with customized curriculum

June 15, 2023

The SDSU Extension Community Vitality team has created the Building Highly Effective Boards curriculum to teach South Dakota board members how to thrive in their roles.

2022 Energize Conference attendees.

Young entrepreneurs share their stories at the 2023 Energize! conference in Wessington Springs

May 16, 2023

A panel of young entrepreneurs including Aidan Friesen, Hope Karels, Swade Ries and Oliver Moeckly will speak at this year’s Energize! conference in Wessington Springs. SDSU Extension and the community of Wessington Springs will host the 2023 Energize! Exploring Innovative Rural Communities Conference May 31-June 1.

Co-workers having a discussion around a laptop.

First Class Group Dynamics for Boards

Even the best boards can go off track due to group dynamics. Learn some expert tips for establishing first-class group dynamics by understanding the strengths and personality styles of each board member.

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.

Interior of a licensed commercial kitchen.

South Dakota Licensed Kitchen Process

Interested in selling food products in a retail establishments? Licensed kitchens are the place to start. Learn the steps for building a licensed kitchen in South Dakota along with rules, regulations and guidelines for processing foods in existing licensed kitchens.