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South Dakota Trade

Who We Are

South Dakota Trade navigates international trade for South Dakota. The association — a 501c(6) public-private partnership — administers South Dakota’s STEP Grant program, conducts export education, facilitates trade missions, and offers free and confidential consulting services to South Dakotan companies.

Our Programs

Export Education

SD Trade offers seminars and courses that will enhance your company’s export-readiness. Classes range from beginner to advanced and can often be covered by STEP Grant funds. 

STEP Grant

SD Trade has been designated by Governor Kristi Noem as the host for the State Trade Expansion Program for South Dakota. The U.S. Small Business Administration grant program can reimburse your company for expenses related to growing your business overseas.

International Trade Consulting

SD Trade offers FREE and confidential consultations to South Dakota’s businesses who need advice, strategic support, and problem-solving while conducting or planning to conduct international trade.

Trade Missions

SD Trade coordinates trade missions and reverse trade missions on behalf of the state to develop important relationships with foreign buyers and those looking to do business in South Dakota.

South Dakota International Trade Statistics

  • Total exports: $6.7 billion
  • Agricultural exports: $4.92 billion
  • Manufacturing exports: $1.73 billion
  • 27,075 jobs supported by exports

Manufacturing worker
TESTIMONIAL

WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY

CEO, Ruffland Performance Kennels

Alisa Turner

“You think you have to do it all on your own. That’s how I started out. With South Dakota Trade, I now have the resources I need to be successful in exporting our kennels.”

Lt. Governor

Larry Rhoden

“We are a powerhouse in exporting agriculture. But we also export machinery, biotechnology, arms, munitions, and much more. South Dakota is poised to grow and diversify our economy with the support of South Dakota Trade.”

COO, H-S Precision

Tim Houghton

“International Trade is a large part of our success. We export all over the world. Israel, Germany, Australia, England, Japan... you name it, if we are allowed to export there, we export there!”

General Manager, Houdek

Dennis Harstad

“Houdek ships two thirds of our products to international countries. Working with South Dakota trade is helping us access new markets that will build resiliency into our business.”

Export Sales Manager, Advanced Sunflower

Cesar Garcia

“South Dakota Trade’s trade mission to Mexico helped us secure new sales in a key market. We are expanding our infrastructure to meet the demand we generated from the trip.”

STEP Grant Applications Now Open!

Become a South Dakota Trade Member