Sioux Falls Targets Major Economic Expansion
Table of Contents
- 1. Sioux Falls Targets Major Economic Expansion
- 2. Key Pillars of the Growth Strategy
- 3. Leadership Voices and Community Impact
- 4. Financial Commitment and Historical Success
- 5. Long-Term Vision for Sioux Falls
- 6. Frequently Asked Questions about Sioux Falls’ Economic Plan
- 7. How will the campaign address potential conflicts between incentivizing developers for affordable housing and maintaining property value concerns from existing homeowners?
- 8. Sioux Falls’ Forward Initiative Launches Ninth Campaign: A New Chapter in Community Engagement and Advocacy
- 9. Campaign focus: Addressing Housing Affordability & Workforce Development
- 10. Key Pillars of the Ninth Campaign
- 11. Impact of Previous Forward Initiatives
- 12. Funding & Partnerships: A Collaborative Effort
- 13. Addressing the Housing Crisis: Specific Strategies
- 14. Workforce Development: Preparing for the Future
- 15. Community Engagement & Advocacy: How to Get Involved
Sioux Falls, South dakota, is poised for significant economic development with the launch of a new initiative spearheaded by Forward Sioux Falls. The comprehensive five-year plan is designed too cultivate robust growth across key sectors, bolstering the city’s future prosperity. This initiative follows a trend of economic expansion in the Midwest,with cities increasingly focused on attracting both businesses and residents.
Key Pillars of the Growth Strategy
The plan centers around four core objectives: job creation, workforce development, fostering innovation, and enhancing the community. These elements are intricately linked, aiming to create a synergistic effect that maximizes economic impact. According to projections, leaders anticipate the addition of 5,000 new jobs, reaching or exceeding the median wage, alongside $3 billion in new capital investments by the year 2031. A considerable increase in population, expecting 30,000 new residents, is also forecasted.
Leadership Voices and Community Impact
Dave Flicek, campaign co-chair affiliated with Avera, emphasized the unique aspects of Sioux Falls’ success. He noted that unlike many communities experiencing either wage or job growth,Sioux Falls benefits from simultaneous expansion in both areas. This dual growth trajectory significantly enhances the city’s appeal, attracting a skilled workforce and driving further investment.
Mayor Paul TenHaken is serving as an honorary co-chair, demonstrating the city’s commitment to this crucial initiative. Additional campaign co-chairs include Jason Herrboldt from First Bank & Trust, Andy Munce of Sanford Health, and Laura Mitchell representing Lawrence & Schiller, Inc.
Financial Commitment and Historical Success
The campaign has established an ambitious fundraising target of $18 million to support the implementation of the five-year plan. Forward Sioux Falls, a collaborative effort between the greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation, has a demonstrated track record of success. As its inception in 1987, the association has already secured over $90 million in funding, laying a strong foundation for future growth.
| Key Metric | Target by 2031 |
|---|---|
| New Jobs | 5,000 (at or above median wage) |
| Capital Investment | $3 Billion |
| New Residents | 30,000 |
| Fundraising Goal | $18 Million |
Did You Know? Sioux Falls has consistently ranked among the fastest-growing cities in the U.S. over the past decade, driven by a diversified economy and a high quality of life. Learn More
Pro Tip: Workforce development is crucial for sustained economic growth. Investing in skills training programs and attracting talent are essential strategies for cities aiming to thrive in the 21st-century economy.
Long-Term Vision for Sioux Falls
This comprehensive plan reflects a forward-thinking approach to economic development, prioritizing enduring growth and community well-being. By focusing on key areas like job creation, innovation, and workforce development, Sioux Falls is strategically positioning itself for long-term success. the collaborative nature of Forward Sioux Falls, bringing together leaders from various sectors, underscores the city’s commitment to a unified vision for the future.
Furthermore, the emphasis on attracting new residents indicates a recognition of the importance of population growth in driving economic vitality. A growing population not only expands the labor pool but also stimulates demand for goods and services, creating a positive cycle of economic activity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Sioux Falls’ Economic Plan
- What is the primary goal of the Forward Sioux Falls plan? The primary goal is to drive economic growth in Sioux Falls by increasing jobs, investment, and population by 2031.
- How many jobs are expected to be created under this plan? The plan anticipates the creation of 5,000 new jobs paying at or above the median wage.
- What is the fundraising goal for the campaign? The fundraising target is set at $18 million.
- Who is leading the Forward Sioux Falls initiative? The campaign is led by co-chairs Dave Flicek, Jason Herrboldt, Andy Munce, and Laura Mitchell, with mayor Paul TenHaken serving as an honorary co-chair.
- What has Forward Sioux Falls accomplished in the past? Since 1987, Forward sioux Falls has raised over $90 million to support economic development initiatives.
- How will the plan benefit current Sioux Falls residents? The plan aims to improve the quality of life for all residents thru increased job opportunities, a stronger economy, and community enhancements.
- What role does innovation play in this economic plan? Fostering innovation is a key pillar of the plan,attracting new industries and creating high-paying jobs.
What are your thoughts on the future of economic development in Sioux falls? Share your opinions in the comments below!
How will the campaign address potential conflicts between incentivizing developers for affordable housing and maintaining property value concerns from existing homeowners?
Sioux Falls’ Forward Initiative Launches Ninth Campaign: A New Chapter in Community Engagement and Advocacy
Campaign focus: Addressing Housing Affordability & Workforce Development
The Sioux Falls Forward initiative, a cornerstone of community development in South Dakota’s largest city, has officially launched it’s ninth campaign, focusing on two critical areas: housing affordability and workforce development. This latest push signals a renewed commitment to proactive solutions for the challenges facing Sioux Falls residents and businesses. The campaign, announced September 11, 2025, builds upon the successes of previous Forward initiatives, adapting to the evolving needs of a rapidly growing city.
Key Pillars of the Ninth Campaign
This year’s Forward campaign isn’t a single program,but rather a multi-faceted approach encompassing several key pillars:
* Affordable Housing Expansion: Targeting increased availability of housing options for low-to-moderate income families. This includes exploring zoning adjustments, incentivizing developers to include affordable units in new projects, and supporting existing housing rehabilitation programs.
* Workforce Skills Training: Partnering with local educational institutions (like southeast Technical College and the University of South Dakota) and businesses to provide targeted skills training programs aligned with in-demand industries. Focus areas include healthcare,advanced manufacturing,and technology.
* Childcare Accessibility: Recognizing childcare as a crucial component of workforce participation, the campaign aims to expand access to affordable, quality childcare services throughout Sioux Falls.
* Transportation Solutions: Improving public transportation options and promoting choice modes of transportation (cycling, walking) to connect residents to jobs and essential services.
Impact of Previous Forward Initiatives
The Sioux Falls Forward initiative has a proven track record. Previous campaigns have demonstrably impacted the city:
- Downtown Revitalization (Campaign 3): Led to meaningful investment in the downtown area, attracting new businesses and residents.
- parks & recreation Improvements (Campaign 5): Resulted in the development of several new parks and the renovation of existing recreational facilities, enhancing quality of life for residents.
- Small Business Support (Campaign 7): provided crucial resources and funding to local small businesses,helping them navigate economic challenges and grow.
These successes demonstrate the power of collaborative, community-driven initiatives in addressing complex urban challenges. The Forward initiative consistently emphasizes community collaboration and economic development as core principles.
Funding & Partnerships: A Collaborative Effort
The ninth campaign is funded through a combination of public and private sources. The City of Sioux Falls has committed significant resources, matched by contributions from local businesses, philanthropic organizations, and individual donors. Key partners include:
* Sioux Falls Area Chamber of Commerce: Providing business expertise and advocacy.
* Leadership Sioux Falls: Engaging community leaders in campaign planning and implementation.
* United Way of Sioux Falls: Leveraging existing networks to connect residents with resources.
* Local Banks & Credit Unions: Offering financial support and expertise in housing finance.
This broad coalition underscores the widespread recognition of the need for collective action. Public-private partnerships are vital to the success of the Forward initiative.
Addressing the Housing Crisis: Specific Strategies
Sioux Falls, like many cities across the nation, is facing a growing housing shortage and rising housing costs. The Forward campaign’s housing affordability pillar will focus on:
* Density Bonuses: Allowing developers to build more units in exchange for including a percentage of affordable housing.
* Land Banking: Acquiring strategically located land for future affordable housing development.
* Rental Assistance Programs: Expanding access to rental assistance for low-income families.
* Streamlining Permitting Processes: Reducing bureaucratic hurdles to accelerate housing construction.
These strategies aim to increase the supply of affordable housing and make homeownership more accessible to a wider range of residents. Housing solutions are a top priority for the city.
Workforce Development: Preparing for the Future
The campaign’s workforce development component will focus on bridging the skills gap and preparing Sioux Falls residents for the jobs of tomorrow. Key initiatives include:
* industry-Specific Training Programs: Developing customized training programs in collaboration with local employers.
* Apprenticeship Opportunities: Expanding access to apprenticeship programs that combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
* Career Counseling & Job Placement Services: providing residents with guidance and support in navigating the job market.
* STEM Education Initiatives: Investing in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) education to prepare students for future careers.
This focus on skills training and career development will help ensure that Sioux Falls has a skilled workforce capable of meeting the needs of a growing economy.Workforce readiness is crucial for sustained economic growth.
Community Engagement & Advocacy: How to Get Involved
The Sioux Falls Forward initiative actively encourages community participation. Residents can get involved in several ways:
* Attend Public Forums: share your ideas and feedback on campaign initiatives.
* Volunteer Your Time: Support campaign events and programs.
* **Donate to
