As one of South Dakota's leading Economic Developers over the past 20 years, Steve Watson has developed a wealth of knowledge. The team at SMGA was lucky enough to sit down and talk with Steve during this week's episode of "Growing Places." We chat with Steve about his time at Augustana University, the Governor's Office of Economic Development, and how he continues to promote South Dakota as a Development Strategist with ISG.

From working as a lawyer for the NBA Player's Association to serving as Brandon, SD's Director of Planning and Development, Patrick Andrews has led an interesting life! Tune into this weeks episode of Growing Places to hear Patrick's story and catch up on all the development going on in Brandon!

SMGA is THRILLED to introduce Lisa Zens as our newest EDS to the Sioux Metro. She will be serving the communities of Harrisburg and Worthing. Tune into to this episode of "Growing Places" to learn about Lisa and what she hopes to accomplish alongside these cities! Also, the team provides a brief round-up of summer festivals throughout the Sioux Metro.

Hear from our intern Molly on her last day. The SMGA reminisces on memories from the last 8 months and talks about future plans.

Congratulations to the Fonkert family on the newest addition!

Baltic resident, small business owner, and Baltic Area Development Foundation President, Zach Nebben teaches all of us something about black walnut and why hobby businesses are important for a community. 

Find Nuts & Stuff on Facebook and Instagram: @NebbensNutsAndStuff

Travis Lape is the Innovative Programs Director and Breanne Lynch is the Career and Technical Education Coordinator at the Harrisburg School District. Together they work with business and students to combine student passions and skills with the needs of the greater community.

Hear all about the upcoming Sioux Metro Growth Alliance Grow Smarter Conference. The conference will be held on April 11-13 in Harrisburg SD. Register online at the link below and we look forward to seeing you there.

https://www.siouxmetro.com/events/2022/04/11/conference/grow-smarter-2022/

Hear from Ward 3 Alderman, Chad Ronshaugen, and LaDelle & 4th Coffee owner, Aaron Delgado, about all things Dell Rapids, owning a small business, and being involved in the local community

Grant Park Capital has made big moves in the community of Baltic including creating a housing development, only the third one in 60 years, and donating the land for a brand new high school. Hear from Brian Hefty, CEO of Hefty Seed Co, and Mike Wendland who have both been instrumental in these projects and in the community of Baltic throughout the years. 

Learn more about SMGA: https://www.siouxmetro.com/

Lennox SD is poised for exponential growth. Hear from Nate Vander Plaats, city administrator, and Sharese Ihnen, president of the Lennox Area Development Corporation, about all things economic development and why Lennox was deserving of the SMGA Community Innovation Award.