Vision Brookings

04/08/2026

Vision Brookings is proud to be a recipient of the Federal Home Loan Bank of Des Moines Member Impact Fund Award through partnership with First Bank & Trust, BankStar Financial , and Dakotaland Federal Credit Union This award will invest an additional $245,000 into our community and support game-changing initiatives that accelerate growth and prosperity in the Brookings area.

Read more at www.visionbrookings.com/our-impact

03/12/2026

Vision Brookings works in multi-year fundraising cycles to align community priorities with catalytic investments. As we prepare for Vision Brookings 2032, we are issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) and seeking an experienced, community-based fundraising professional or firm to partner with us.

Interested consultants are invited to review the RFP and submit an application outlining their experience, approach, and interest in supporting catalytic economic and community development initiatives. Selected respondents will continue the conversation with Vision Brookings leadership and Board.

The RFP and application can be found at: www.visionbrookings.com/consultantrfp

03/04/2026

Vision Brookings works in multi-year fundraising cycles to align community priorities with catalytic investments. As we prepare for Vision Brookings 2032, we are issuing a Request for Proposals (RFP) and seeking an experienced, community-based fundraising professional or firm to partner with us.

Interested consultants are invited to review the RFP and submit an application outlining their experience, approach, and interest in supporting catalytic economic and community development initiatives. Selected respondents will continue the conversation with Vision Brookings leadership and Board.

The RFP and application can be found at: www.visionbrookings.com/consultantrfp

11/07/2025

Vision Brookings Investor Spotlight 🧡 The East Brookings Business and Industry Association (EBBIA) is more than an organization, it’s a driving force behind growth, connection, and opportunity in East Brookings. Focused on turning ideas into action, EBBIA works to attract new businesses, support existing ones, and create a vibrant community where people can work, shop, play, and live.

Through projects like the bike path extension, new traffic lights at 6th Street and 32nd Avenue, and advocacy for the proposed I-29 Interchange 130, EBBIA continues to make visible progress that benefits the entire Brookings community.
As a Vision Brookings investor, EBBIA shares our mission to advance economic growth and community vitality across the region. Their proactive, results-driven approach helps ensure that Brookings’ growth remains balanced, connected, and full of opportunity for all. 💡🤝

Want to learn more about Vision Brookings and the people powering progress? Visit www.visionbrookings.com

08/01/2025

Vision Brookings Investor Spotlight 🤩🧡 Jay Bender is more than a leader in business, he’s a passionate advocate for innovation, community growth, and the future of Brookings. As one of the original investors in Vision Brookings, Jay has played a key role in bringing bold ideas to life.

A proud SDSU engineering graduate, Jay spent most of his career at Falcon Plastics, a company grounded in innovation and family values. ⚙ “We refer to everyone at Falcon Plastics as our Falcon Family,” Jay says, reflecting his belief that strong relationships and shared purpose are the foundation of success.

Whether it’s through business leadership or community involvement, Jay continues to lead with purpose and vision. His dedication to progress and innovation has left a lasting mark on Brookings, helping to create a community where people, ideas, and opportunity thrive.

Want to learn more about Vision Brookings and the people powering progress? Visit www.visionbrookings.com

06/03/2025

Introducing the New Vision Brookings Website! 🤩 We're thrilled to unveil our redesigned digital home: www.visionbrookings.com

Vision Brookings is a volunteer organization that enables private organizations and citizens to invest in game-changing initiatives that accelerate growth and prosperity in the Brookings area.

Explore the new site to learn more about our mission, discover current initiatives, understand our historical impact, and find out how you can get involved.

Vision Brookings is a volunteer organization that enables private organizations and citizens to invest in game-changing initiatives that accelerate growth and prosperity in the Brookings area.

05/19/2025

JOIN US THIS EVENING! 🤩 We will be hosting our annual Investor Celebration this evening at 5:00 PM at the Research Park at SDSU. Join us to get updates on the Vision Brookings 2027 campaign and more! Refreshments will be available.

When: 5:00 PM
Where: Research Park at SDSU, 2301 Research Park Way, Brookings SD 57006

05/09/2025

Congratulations to Bowes Construction, Inc. on being named Community Champion of the Year! 🎉 As a Platinum Level Vision Brookings Sponsor, Bowes continues to set the standard for what it means to invest in the future of our region. From launching CDL programs to honoring veterans, their decades-long commitment to progress makes a lasting impact across Brookings.

🚧 Community Champion – Bowes Construction, Inc.

🏗️ A huge round of applause for Bowes Construction, Inc., named the Community Champion by the Brookings Chamber and Brookings Economic Development!

Since 1975, Bowes has been laying the foundation for a stronger Brookings—literally and figuratively. From supporting Vision Brookings and educational scholarships to creating a veteran monument and launching a CDL training program, Bowes goes above and beyond to uplift our community.

💬 “Bowes Construction’s unwavering commitment to enhancing the Brookings community makes them a deserving recipient of the Community Champion of the Year award.”

Their partnership with city leadership and dedication to workforce development make them a true pillar of progress and community pride.

👏 Thank you for all you do for our community!

04/24/2025

At Vision Brookings, we invest in game-changing, catalytic initiatives with long-term impact, and Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce's Connect Brookings Committee is a great example of this mission. 🤝😀 Backed by a 3-year $25,000 annual investment from Vision Brookings, this initiative continues to help build a stronger future, connecting SDSU students, young professionals, and new residents to the Brookings community.

Whether it’s hosting a New Resident BBQ, helping students get job-ready through the Work Ready Bootcamp, or bringing people together at the Young Professional Summit, Connect Brookings is creating lasting connections and a stronger regional workforce. 🧡

You can read more about Connect Brookings' impact in the article below.

BROOKINGS — Connect Brookings, supported by a $25,000 annual investment from Vision Brookings for 2023-25, continues to make a measurable impact in workforce retention by engaging SDSU …

03/20/2025

We are so excited to see the Brookings Child Care Collaborative make such amazing strides in providing childcare solutions for the community. Vision Brookings is committed to supporting long-term, positive change, and this investment, along with additional support, has expanded childcare access, strengthened workforce, and created lasting impact for families in Brookings County.

Learn more about BCCC by visiting www.brookingschildcarecollaborative.com

Members of the Brookings Child Care Collaborative celebrate ribbon-cutting ceremonies at the Boys & Girls Club’s new preschool facility at 1126 Southland Lane. The 1,000-foot expansion …

02/21/2025

Start your morning with coffee and conversation as you connect with your District 7 and 8 legislators. ☕ This free event is a great opportunity to hear legislative updates, ask questions, and discuss key state and local issues.

Hosted by the Brookings Area Chamber of Commerce, the event takes place on Saturday, February 22, at 9:00 AM at the City-County Government Center, 3rd Floor.

Attending legislators include Rep. Mellissa Heermann, Rep. Roger DeGroot, and Sen. Tim Reed from District 7, along with Senate Majority Leader Sen. Casey Crabtree, Rep. Tim Reisch, and Rep. John Mills from District 8.

Don't miss this chance to stay informed and engaged in your community!