Best Small Business Resources in the Sioux Falls Area

Starting a business is a life-changing experience. South Dakota has dozens of great resources to help entrepreneurs get started. Our team researched and vetted organizations in the Sioux Falls area and compiled our list of recommended resources in this article.
You can also read our guide to starting a business in South Dakota.
Resources Available in your Area
Southeast Enterprise Facilitation Project
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
The Southeast Enterprise Facilitation Project is a nonprofit organization dedicated to enriching the larger South Dakota community through empowering entrepreneurs. The organization offers various free services in business consulting, strategy planning, as well as assistance in seeking out funding.
Works with Companies in These Stages:

Idea

Planning

Startup

Growth
Entrepreneur-In-Residence Program at SD Mines
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Description
The Entrepreneur-In-Residence Program at SD Mines is an excellent resource for affiliates of the school interested in starting a business; the program assists with business planning, funding, and connecting entrepreneurs to other resources and networks. The in-house experts that mentor entrepreneurs are sure to be very valuable.
Restrictions
Restricted to South Dakota School of Mines & Technology affiliates.
Works with Companies in These Stages:

Idea

Planning

Startup

Growth
CONTACT INFORMATION:
South Dakota School of Mines & Technology, 501 E. Saint Joseph St.
Rapid City, SD 57701
605-394-5168
economic.development@sdsmt.edu
International Trade Center
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
The greatest strength of the SBDC is their free, confidential, 1-on-1 business mentoring for anyone who seeks it. Sometimes in order to be considered for mentoring from one of their professional business advisors, you may have to attend a class/workshop or at least present your business plan. SBDC's are located all throughout the state and you should use the SBDC closest to your location if possible, but you can often transfer to a different location if they do not fit your needs.
Works with Companies in These Stages:

Idea

Planning

Startup

Growth
Sioux Falls SCORE
Here are the Principle Service Areas:
Offers Free Service
Description
SCORE (Service Corp of Retired Executives) is a leading, nation-wide organization that has assisted millions of entrepreneurs over its 50+ years of operation. SCORE is a resource partner of the SBA that offers access to a network of experienced business leaders who donate time to mentor entrepreneurs and small business owners. They also host free or inexpensive workshops online and at 300 local chapters around the United States. Mentoring can be conducted either in person or remotely and is always free and confidential, no matter how often you take advantage of this service.
Works with Companies in These Stages:

Idea

Planning

Startup

Growth