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South Dakota

Grants, foundations, and funding data for South Dakota (SD).

Foundations

330

Total Assets

$2.2B

Total Giving

$461.3M

Active Grants

60

National Rank

#49

South Dakota Grant Programs: Funding for Rural Communities, Small Businesses, and Nonprofits

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Key State Programs

GOED Proof of Concept Grant

Grants of up to $25,000 for South Dakota innovators and entrepreneurs to prove the feasibility of a new product or technology before bringing it to market. Designed to foster early-stage innovation across the state.

Beyond Idea Grants (SD Community Foundation)

Competitive grants ranging from $5,000 to $100,000 per year for community projects across South Dakota. One application round per year, with focus areas including child wellbeing, housing, and workforce development beginning in 2026.

Dakota Seeds Internship Program

Annual grant program that reimburses eligible businesses up to 50 percent of salary costs for STEM interns, with a cap of $2,000 per intern per semester and up to five interns per company.

South Dakota Arts Council Grants

Funding for South Dakota artists, arts organizations, and nonprofits pursuing arts projects and cultural programming. Annual application cycle with a March deadline supporting creative initiatives statewide.

MicroLOAN South Dakota

Flexible financing from $1,000 to $100,000 for South Dakota companies and residents, covering working capital, equipment, real estate, and other fixed-asset project costs for businesses at various stages of growth.

Frequently Asked Questions

What state agency manages most business grants in South Dakota?

The South Dakota Governor's Office of Economic Development (GOED) is the primary state agency administering business grants and incentive programs. GOED manages the Proof of Concept grants, Dakota Seeds internship program, workforce development reimbursements, and the REDI Fund, among other programs. Their website at sdgoed.com is the best starting point for business-related grant opportunities.

Are there grants specifically for rural communities in South Dakota?

Yes, South Dakota offers several grants targeting rural communities. The Industrial Park Road Grants program helps towns build infrastructure for new industries, while the Community Access Road Grants program assists small towns with road improvements. The South Dakota Community Foundation's Beyond Idea Grants and South Dakota Fund also prioritize rural community development, and the REDI Fund provides low-interest financing specifically for businesses in underserved areas.

How can South Dakota nonprofits find current grant opportunities?

South Dakota nonprofits should monitor the Governor's Office of Economic Development website, the South Dakota Community Foundation grant portal, and the South Dakota Arts Council for state-level opportunities. The SDCF Beyond Idea Grants open annually in June, and the Arts Council accepts applications each March. Additionally, federal pass-through grants are available through various state departments including transportation, health, and social services.

What workforce training funding is available for South Dakota employers?

South Dakota employers can access the GOED Workforce Development Program, which reimburses up to 50 percent of eligible training costs to a maximum of $500 per employee. The Dakota Seeds program supports STEM internships with reimbursements up to $2,000 per intern per semester. These programs are designed to help South Dakota companies develop talent pipelines without bearing the full cost of employee development.

Top Foundations

Largest Foundations in South Dakota

#FoundationAssets
1Esther And Harold Mertz Foundation$665.6M
2John T Vucurevich Foundation$152M
3Harvey W Peters Research Foundation$136.4M
4Waitt Foundation$136.3M
5Pine Rock Foundation Inc.$98.1M

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