We’re proud that the name of our organization includes “enterprise,” a word that illustrates the energetic spirit of our state’s business community. Enterprise means a readiness to put effort into new and innovative ventures or activities. The word is also defined as organized business activities aimed specifically at growth and profit. Further, enterprise refers to a new venture that involves confidence and initiative.

Those elements are the earmarks of successful business ventures—and also the key to maintaining the vibrancy and economic futures of South Dakota communities. Enterprise drives entrepreneurs to try a new idea, start a new business or bring a new service to town. Enterprise encourages business owners to put in those extra hours to get the company established. And enterprise—the willingness to try new ideas with confidence and initiative in order to achieve growth and profit—motivates community leaders to invest in their town and its future.

Our state has always valued enterprise. Enterprise is the pioneering spirit that brought people to the Great Plains in the first place. Enterprise has helped us develop our agricultural economy into a diverse set of value-added industries that utilize the unique assets of our state in innovative new ways. Enterprise has ensured that South Dakota is among the states rated highest for business opportunity by Forbes magazine—and opportunity is a critical factor in creating successful business and community enterprises.

In fact, enterprise requires opportunity in order to develop. With an enterprising nature and the right opportunity, anything is possible. South Dakota Rural Enterprise is about growing community opportunity, finding new and innovative ways to tap into the spirit of enterprise that characterizes our state. Our organization specializes in new and innovative programs, services and financial intermediary products that give communities, revolving loan funds and economic development groups the resources they need to improve our economy, strengthen our communities and enhance our future in South Dakota.

Enterprise. It’s ambition, determination, fresh ideas and a will to succeed. It’s also the business bedrock on which our communities depend—and the springboard to tomorrow that can ensure a brighter future for our children and grandchildren statewide.

2007 SUMMER REPORT
	Market research shows progress, promise & potential
	"Enterprise" fuels the spirit of SD business
	Author presents workshop to Rural Enterprise board
	Microenterprise program begins to take shape
	Capital Investment Fund is working for SD
	Meadowlark Retreat
	Helping communities & organizations to GROW
	Program creates value-added communities