When Sioux Falls was founded, it was a city built around agriculture. Today, this industry has evolved and expanded with the advent of technology and the area's diversified economic base.

Farm-supply cooperatives, farm-implement retailers, a meat-packing plant that employs more than 3,000 people and the world's busiest stockyards are just some of the ag-related businesses that can be found in Sioux Falls.

The Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce recognizes the important role agri-business continues to play in our area. The Chamber's Agri-Business Division seeks to advance and promote the Sioux Empire as an agricultural center. This division sponsors the annual Sioux Empire Farm Show, held in conjunction with the Sioux Falls Farm Show, and features the latest in agricultural technology and the top livestock from across the nation. Each year the Chamber also says "thank you" to the thousands of farmers in the Sioux Empire by hosting a free meal in conjunction with the Sioux Empire Fair.

Hundreds of volunteers help support the activities of the Agri-Business Division throughout the year. To volunteer for any of the activities or learn more about activities sponsored by the Agri-Business Division, call (605) 373-2016 or e-mail Cindy Christensen.