SD Trade association launches

Partners from across the state have joined to create a new association that will assist businesses as they navigate international trade. South Dakota Trade will serve as a resource for businesses that wish to expand their markets overseas.

SD Trade President and CEO Luke J. Lindberg said, “South Dakota Trade will be a vital resource to our farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, and small business owners as they navigate an increasingly complicated global economy.”

South Dakota Trade will offer four programs:

• Free and confidential consulting on exporting goods and services.
• Trade mission and reverse trade mission facilitation
• State Trade Expansion Program (STEP) grants to small and medium-sized companies
• Export seminars and courses that will enhance companies’ export-readiness.

An eight-person board of directors will provide oversight for the new association. Chamber President & CEO Jeff Griffin has been appointed as the board’s treasurer.

“South Dakota Trade is a great opportunity for businesses to expand current trade operations while creating a path for businesses to become first timers in the international trade environment. As our state’s economy continues to grow it is important for us to explore emerging markets,” said Griffin.

South Dakota Trade, which is a 501(c)6, is a public-private partnership. Forward Sioux Falls, the joint venture partnership between the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, is proud to be a partner in creating South Dakota Trade. The association is also funded by local businesses, trade associations, economic development organizations, the University of South Dakota, and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED).