South Dakota Trade

06/19/2026

In 2025, South Dakota exported $1.9 billion in goods to markets around the world, highlighting the continued impact of our state’s manufacturers, producers, and exporters on the global economy.

From agriculture and bioscience to manufacturing and renewable fuels, South Dakota businesses continue to build international connections and drive economic growth beyond our borders.

At South Dakota Trade, we’re proud to support that momentum and help businesses navigate global opportunities with confidence.

06/18/2026

Through the Freedom 250 pledge, businesses across the country are committing to creating opportunity, investing in workers, and growing here at home. American innovation built the last 250 years, and small businesses will build the next 250. Take the Freedom 250 Pledge today at:

Celebrating America’s 250th Anniversary For 250 years, small businesses have powered innovation, created opportunity, and strengthened local communities. Main Street Builds America – and through Freedom 250, SBA is honoring that legacy while investing in the next generation of builders, makers, ...

06/17/2026

🌍 Country Spotlight: Mexico

Mexico remains one of South Dakota’s top export partners, creating strong opportunities in agriculture, manufacturing, and food production.

Its growing economy, close proximity, and established trade relationships continue to make it an important market for South Dakota businesses looking to expand internationally.

Consulmex Saint Paul

06/15/2026

Meet the Board: John Willard

John Willard serves as CEO of CAW Industries and PlantCatalyst and brings decades of experience in international business development, strategic communications, public relations, and global market expansion to the South Dakota Trade Board of Directors.

Throughout his career, John has helped businesses navigate growth opportunities, expand into international markets, secure business development funding, and build strong brands across diverse industries. His experience includes leading global business initiatives, supporting international development programs, and helping companies successfully enter and grow in markets worldwide.

Known for his strategic thinking and results-driven leadership, John provides valuable insight as South Dakota Trade works to create new opportunities for businesses across the state.

Thank you, John, for your service and leadership on the South Dakota Trade Board of Directors.

06/12/2026

Looking to grow beyond local markets but unsure where to begin? At South Dakota Trade, we help South Dakota businesses navigate international opportunities with confidence through free and confidential consulting services.

Whether you’re exploring exporting for the first time or looking to expand into new markets, our team provides one-on-one guidance, strategic support, and practical resources every step of the way.

Your global growth journey starts with a conversation.

🔗 Connect with our team: https://southdakotatrade.com/contact-us

06/10/2026

We are so lucky to have Kallie Ruland on our team at South Dakota Trade!

Kallie adds value to every conversation, creates meaningful relationships with every interaction, and represents South Dakota with professionalism, enthusiasm, and heart. Her passion for connecting people and building opportunities makes a difference every single day.

We’re proud to see Kallie recognized and featured in Black Hills Lifestyle Magazine. Thank you for being you, Kallie, and for all you do to support South Dakota businesses and communities. We appreciate you!

Meet our June 2026 Cover Woman, Kallie Ruland.

Some people spend years figuring out what they want to do. Kallie knew early on that she wanted to make an impact. Today, she's doing exactly that through her work with Elevate Rapid City and South Dakota Trade, helping businesses grow, building connections, and creating opportunities across the region.

Raised in Wall, South Dakota, Kallie's story is rooted in hard work, family, and community. Whether she's meeting with local business leaders, supporting economic development efforts, traveling abroad on trade missions, or spending time with her husband Riley and daughter Quincy, she brings the same energy and purpose to everything she does.

What stood out most to us is that Kallie never forgot where she came from. From small-town beginnings to helping shape the future of communities across South Dakota, she's proof that big impact can come from deep roots.

Read her inspiring story in our June issue:
https://issuu.com/michelscom/docs/black_hills_lifestyle_june_2026/9

Photography by Chapters in Focus LLC
Written by Lauren Johnson

https://www.facebook.com/kallie.carey

06/09/2026

— Successful exporting starts long before your product ships.

Understanding market regulations, compliance requirements, pricing expectations, and customer demand early can help businesses avoid costly surprises and build stronger long-term export strategies.

At South Dakota Trade, we help South Dakota businesses navigate international markets with greater confidence and clarity.

https://southdakotatrade.com/

06/03/2026

Even in the face of global challenges, South Dakota businesses continue to move forward with resilience, innovation, and determination. 🌍

The 2025 Annual Report highlights partnerships, trade missions, strategic growth, and export opportunities that help strengthen South Dakota’s presence in global markets.

At South Dakota Trade, we remain committed to helping South Dakota businesses navigate international trade and build momentum for the future.

Explore the full 2025 Annual Report:
https://shorturl.at/x0uUw

06/02/2026

RAPID CITY, S.D. (KOTA) - South Dakota Trade combined business development and student learning during a trade mission to Germany in May, bringing South Dakota companies and University of South Dakota students together for an international experience focused on commerce and education.

The mission centered on Interzoo 2026 in Nuremberg, one of the world’s largest pet industry trade shows. Three South Dakota companies—Houdek, Parker Freeze Dry and RuffLand Kennels—met with international buyers, distributors and industry leaders while exploring export opportunities.

South Dakota Trade led a May mission to Germany centered on Interzoo 2026, where three South Dakota pet-industry companies met with global buyers while USD business students gained hands-on international experience.

06/02/2026

Know a high school student interested in business, leadership, or accounting?

The University of South Dakota Beacom School of Business is offering three hands-on summer camp experiences in Sioux Falls and Vermillion this summer.

These programs give students the chance to explore business careers, connect with professionals, and experience campus life.

June 7 – Business Immersion Bootcamp
June 14–16 – Business Academy
July 12–14 – Summer Accounting Institute