Message from the Chair

Sioux Falls is truly a special place. We are fortunate to stand on the foundation built by great leaders in the past who helped make Sioux Falls what it is today. Now it is up to our current and future leaders to carry that momentum forward.

In 1986, the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce launched the Evan C. Nolte Leadership Sioux Falls program to inspire and develop the next generation of community leaders. The program connects emerging leaders and helps them understand the role they play in building a more vibrant community with more than 1,100 alumni serving our community through various public and private leadership roles. This fall will mark the 40th class of Leadership Sioux Falls. You can read more in the June issue of Chamber News.

Continuing with the spirit of helping people reach their leadership potential, the Chamber hosted its first Young Professionals (YP) week. Turnout far exceeded expectations. It is clear the next generation is eager to step up and help lead our great city into the future!

This focus on leadership continues to pay dividends. President Jeff Griffin was recently recognized as the Executive of the Year by Mid-American Chamber Executives (MACE). MACE is made up of chamber professionals from six upper Midwest states. Jeff was recognized for his commitment to building connections and championing business interests in Sioux Falls. 

Our commitment to leadership does not stop at home. Chamber representatives recently traveled to Washington, D.C. to meet with South Dakota congressional delegation. The message was clear: while it’s essential to support existing businesses, we must also continue to aggressively pursue new opportunities to ensure future growth. The reality is that each year some companies downsize, close or relocate, and that is why it is critical that we continue to look to grow and diversify.

During the trip, it was emphasized that it is difficult for our delegation to advocate for federal investment in Sioux Falls and South Dakota if our local and state governments do not demonstrate support for growth—particularly through business development and airport expansion. Key topics included ensuring the South Dakota Air National Guard is well equipped, the strategic importance of the EROS Data Center, opportunities to attract more data centers, accreditation for cyber research facilities in Madison and Sioux Falls and the ongoing Sioux Falls airport expansion.

We’ve made strong progress, but we must stay committed. Without continued effort, we risk missing future opportunities and jeopardizing the progress we’ve already made.

Thank you for all you do, and let’s keep pushin’ on to even greater things.