South Dakota Growth Alliance Honors Regional Champions

When 150 people show up to celebrate their neighbors' wins, you know something special is happening in South Dakota.

The Sioux Metro Growth Alliance held its annual meeting this month to honor the communities, businesses, and leaders making southeast South Dakota thrive. The organization works across the region to support economic development, helping small towns grow while keeping their unique character intact.

Dell Rapids took home Community of the Year for balancing growth with small-town charm. The city has worked hard to develop partnerships that benefit everyone, proving you don't have to lose your identity to move forward.

"Leadership is everything and Dell Rapids has been blessed to have a long line of leaders there over the years," said Chris Ekstrum of First National Bank in Sioux Falls. The city keeps growing while staying true to who they are.

Sioux Valley Energy earned Business Partner of the Year for showing up and following through. The company doesn't just check boxes, it actively invests in its members and the broader region with community-driven values.

Tea City Administrator Justin Weiland received the Regional Economic Development Champion Award after two decades of supporting city growth. He spent 13 years helping Dell Rapids develop before moving to his current role in Tea.

"Justin is the epitome of a regional champion," said SMGA President and CEO Tyler Tordsen. "He is a leader behind the scenes making it all happen the right way."

The alliance also announced a new Leadership Sioux Metro program launching this year to support leadership development across the metro area. More details will come in the coming months.

The Ripple Effect

This isn't just about awards and recognition dinners. The Sioux Metro Growth Alliance supports much of southeast South Dakota with education, community development resources, and public policy guidance that helps small towns punch above their weight.

When communities work together instead of competing, everyone wins. Dell Rapids grows without losing its soul. Sioux Valley Energy strengthens the entire region. Leaders like Weiland share what works across city lines.

"We're fortunate to live in a state and region where the communities, the businesses, and the people are looking out for each other," Tordsen said. His team focuses on growing the region with future generations in mind, not just quick wins.

That spirit of collaboration is exactly what makes small-town America work.