PIERRE, S.D. – The South Dakota Board of Economic Development approved two SD Works loans to support business expansion and local economic development in De Smet and Lemmon. The projects will support capital investment, business continuity, and new employment opportunities in South Dakota communities.
“These projects reflect the strength of South Dakota’s business climate and the people who continue investing in our communities,” said Governor Rhoden. “By expanding manufacturing capacity and supporting local ownership of an essential business, these investments help create opportunity and strengthen communities across our state.”
The board approved a SD Works loan of $400,000 for DeSCo Architectural, Inc. to support an expansion project in De Smet. The company is adding a new product line, allowing DeSCo to integrate a key component of its window systems, reduce production costs, improve competitiveness, and establish a new wholesale product line serving regional markets. The project is expected to create six new full-time positions.
The board also approved a SD Works loan of $550,000 for Lemmon IGA to support the purchase of the grocery store by Stefanie Dauwen. Dauwen has served as the store’s general manager for more than 20 years and is transitioning into ownership of the business. The ownership transition will help ensure continued access to a vital community grocery store and is expected to create 10 new full-time positions.
“These projects demonstrate how local investment supports long-term economic growth in communities across South Dakota,” said GOED Commissioner Bill Even. “From manufacturing expansion to local business ownership, these investments help strengthen our workforce, support essential services, and create new opportunities for South Dakotans.”
The SD Works program provides flexible financing to businesses for capital equipment, facilities, and working capital to support job creation and retention throughout the state.
