2024 Governor's Conference on Economic Development

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Spearfish – Beauty and Betterment in One Growing Community

Spearfish, a beautifully scenic community positioned on the edge of the Northern Black Hills is located in western South Dakota along Interstate 90.

Spearfish’s economic development is everchanging and continually growing. Spearfish Business and Industrial Park, just off Exit 14, is currently home to several dozen businesses. Expansion is continuing with Pacific Stainless Products, a contract manufacturer from St. Helens, Oregon, expanding its business to Spearfish. Their 30,000-40,000 square foot facility will house the metal fabricator and manufacturer of high-quality metal products.

Spearfish’s strategic plan is something that the community looks closely at as they continue to grow. From improving the infrastructure network and trails to providing more business opportunities and expanding educational opportunities, Korey Menken, Spearfish Economic Development Corporation (SEDC) Executive Director, said Spearfish is thriving.

“To keep up with and, more importantly, stay ahead of future growth, SEDC is focusing not only on its traditional business retention, expansion, and recruitment priorities but also on its workforce development strategies. We are working closer than ever with our local colleges and school district to address the workforce needs of our business community,” he said.

The Spearfish School District is in the process of constructing a Career and Technical Education (CTE) Center which SEDC has been a part of developing, as well as advocating for new programs and additional funding. SEDC is also collaborating with Black Hills State University (BHSU) on an internship program that pairs BHSU students seeking additional income and experience within their major of study with Spearfish employers seeking workers.

Spearfish is home to hundreds of businesses in a variety of industries and is working hard to bring more growth to the town. Menken said, “SEDC’s target industries are outdoor product companies, light industrial, advanced manufacturing, value-added agriculture, healthcare, and professional services.”

To help both new and existing businesses, the community has developed programs to help with growth. The Spearfish Economic Revolving Fund (SERF) helps with land acquisition and related development, building, remodeling, and the purchase of equipment.

Other options that businesses could take advantage of are the Capital Loan Program and the Entrepreneurial Loan Program, both of which provide gap financing opportunities, and the Business Façade Rehabilitation Loan Program, which assists with renovation costs.

Through all of its growth, Menken has been pleased to work with GOED.

He concluded, “GOED has played a role in a variety of different projects including Spearfish Brewing, Sawyer Brewing, Pacific Stainless Products, and Creekside Bean and Vine to name just a few. GOED is one of SEDC’s closest partners. We look forward to continuing to partner with GOED on addressing key economic development issues including talent attraction and workforce housing.”

South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development

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