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Resources

Idea

Start from scratch!

All businesses start with an idea or concept and one of the toughest hurdles to clear is moving from the idea stage to an actionable plan. If you are looking for guidance to take your idea from paper to action, explore the resources below!

  • Co.Starters Cohort Sessions - Dakota Resources - Local
    • CO.STARTERS is a program designed to provide you with the insights, relationships, and tools to turn your idea into action and a sustainable business. If you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, or a seasoned entrepreneur looking to launch a new product or service, CO.STARTERS is for you. The one requirement is that you have a concept you are ready to test and willing to study, shape and fine-tune in a supportive, collaborative, and welcoming environment. If you’re creative, community-minded, and serious about turning your passion into a thriving business, we want you.
  • LivePlan - National
    • LivePlan is software available to help you work through a business plan and develop growth plans for the future of your business. Learn more about this paid platform by visiting the site.
  • Small Business Basics - SDSU Extension - State
    • Coordinated by the SDSU Extension Community Vitality team, the Small Business Basics program covers an extensive list of topics including writing or updating business plans, tax and licensing, employee relations, pricing and marketing, customer service, social media, and aspects of financing. A six week program, the Small Business Basics course will feature six different sessions. Additionally, throughout the program different entrepreneurs shared their real-world experiences with participants.
  • SD Licenses & Registration - GOED - State
    • Need to get your business licensed and registered? Check out this step by step walk through of how to get your business licensed in South Dakota.
  • Market Research - SBDC - State
    • Receive confidential, no-cost one-on-one business counseling through the South Dakota Small Business Development Center. The SBDC counsels clients on business planning and financial projections as well as providing market and research analytical services.
  • Grants 101 - US Department of Health & Human Services - National
    • Learn about available grants that could help you fund or grow your business idea. The federal website hosts a list of resources in addition to a listing of current grants.
  • One-on-One Counseling - SBIR/STTR - State
    • The Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs are highly competitive programs that encourage domestic small businesses to engage in Federal Research/Research and Development (R/R&D) with the potential for commercialization.
  • Financing and Incentives - GOED - State
    • GOED offers an array of financing options to meet the needs of both new and existing companies. Whether you are looking for working capital, workforce training money or a low-interest loan, GOED can help. We have a team of enthusiastic finance professionals, established relationships with local banks and bankers in place, and a desire to see your company succeed.
  • Chamber Events - Chamber of Commerce - Local
    • The Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce hosts a variety of events. Check out the list of events for opportunities to connect with professionals and businesses in the community.
  • Startup Sioux Falls - Local
    • Startup Sioux Falls is an ecosystem organization that empowers founders by offering resources to network, launch, and grow your venture. Check out the Startup Sioux Falls website for coworking space in downtown Sioux Falls, access to resources, and events.
  • Energize Conference - Dakota Resources - State
    • A two-day event exploring innovative rural communities and includes speakers, breakout groups and social events highlighting the host community’s resources and rural community success stories. Participants can choose from sessions led by South Dakota’s leaders with success stories from rural areas and a nationally known keynote speaker.
  • Giant Vision Competition - GOED - State
    • A competitive program for students attending South Dakota schools or South Dakota Residents to explore entrepreneurial opportunities outside of the classroom or to explore a new business idea with guidance. Prizes range from $5,000 to $20,000.
  • Website - Launch Founder - National
    • The Launch Founder programs help businesses grow through coaching, access to resources, and mentorship tailored to the idea or business opportunity.
  • Business Start Up Packet - GOED - State
    • This packet, created by the Governors Office of Economic Development offers a guide detailing every step to starting a business in South Dakota. The steps range from general advice about how to form and protect your business idea to state specific information.
  • One-on-One Counseling - SBDC - State
    • Receive confidential, no-cost one-on-one business counseling through the South Dakota Small Business Development Center. The SBDC counsels clients on business planning and financial projections as well as providing market and research analytical services.
  • Incubator - Research Park - Local
    • The Brookings Innovation Center is a 43,000 square-foot startup business incubator for early stage tech and science research firms. The Center offers conference rooms, internet, break rooms, and collaborative opportunities.
  • Strengthening Businesses - SDSU Extension - State
    • SDSU Extension hosts several programs and events aimed at teaching communities how to create an environment favorable to entrepreneurship growth.
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