About
Mission
Startup Sioux Falls empowers founders and ignites innovation.
We are an ecosystem organization that empowers founders by offering resources to network, launch, and grow their ventures. We ignite innovation by being a thought leader in the state to bring new ideas to life and offer better support for founders.
If you have ever aspired to launch something of your own, we want you to join our community. Start with Startup Sioux Falls.
Values
Vision
We will serve 100,000 people and help 100 businesses grow by 2034.
Serving 100,000 People
Our vision extends beyond individual startups. We aspire to serve 100,000 people by creating a vibrant ecosystem that fosters innovation, collaboration, and growth. Our commitment to this ambitious goal is reflected in every interaction we have: from our dynamic programs and events to the meaningful connections we facilitate. Whether it’s through educational programs, networking opportunities, or community-building initiatives, we’re dedicated to empowering individuals, entrepreneurs, and organizations alike.
Helping 100 Businesses Grow
Our commitment to fostering growth is measured by tangible success metrics. We define “growth” as a year-over-year increase in a business’ revenue, profit, or employee count. By providing targeted programs and resources, we aim to propel 100 businesses towards significant growth milestones, ensuring they not only thrive but also contribute positively to the economy of the Sioux Falls area.
History
Like all good stories, ours began with an idea. What could happen if a city in the heart of the Great Plains decided to chart its own course into the future? In 1999, it was this idea that led Forward Sioux Falls to form a committee focused on tech-based economic development in the city of Sioux Falls. Just three years later, the Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and Development Foundation opened the doors to the South Dakota Technology Business Center (SDTBC). A bold vision for the future of our state, the SDTBC offered programming and physical space to incubate and accelerate high-growth tech businesses in South Dakota’s largest city.
We didn’t stop there. In 2016, we asked ourselves what more we could do. We realized innovation isn’t exclusive to tech. Inspiration isn’t exclusive to high-growth businesses. We were here to support entrepreneurs at all stages. We needed to be more. With that, we evolved to become the Zeal Center for Entrepreneurship—the physical hub for Sioux Falls’ budding startup scene.
In 2019, the Zeal Center merged with Startup Sioux Falls, a startup community organization founded by Matt Paulson. This merger created the organization we know as Startup Sioux falls today, which provides real resources to those who dare to chart their own course. We empower founders in our community as they work diligently to launch and grow their ventures. We are more than a building; we are an ecosystem organization. We are a collective of doers, thinkers, and innovators working tirelessly to support those who dare to dream.
The Rest of the Story
In the exciting world of startups, founders exemplify adaptability, innovation, and resilience. They deserve an ecosystem that not only recognizes but actively supports their journey of bringing ideas to life.
At Startup Sioux Falls, we're deeply connected to our community. Our mission is to empower founders and ignite innovation, making entrepreneurship accessible to everyone who dreams of launching something. As we move forward, we aim to grow our community, have programming for the entire founder's journey, and become the go-to connector of the regional startup scene—a dream envisioned by our community's leaders nearly two decades ago.
Just like the resilient founders we support, our community is always changing. We actively engage in the changes shaping our city's future. Being in downtown Sioux Falls shows our commitment to working with others toward the common goal of shaping our city's future.
We're your partners in building a strong foundation for your venture. Will you join us in this exciting journey?
Start with Startup Sioux Falls.
Rebrand and Move Downtown
Where we are now
Startup Sioux Falls Staff
Startup Sioux Falls Board of Directors
Community Builders
These community builders have supported or currently support our organization with their time and skillset both in volunteer and contracted roles. We are so thankful for the talented community that supports our organization and the founders we serve!
Founder Funder Partners
Meet an amazing group of community builders who have donated money towards sponsoring scholarships for programs for entrepreneurs — including nonprofit founders, economically disadvantaged founders, and pre-revenue startups.
Because of these partners, there are founders who will be able to access our programs so they can pursue their ideas and be surrounded by a supportive community of entrepreneurs.
We will be announcing scholarship applications very soon...
but if you don't want to wait, check out our programs!
Community Contractors
These skilled professionals have contributed their time and expertise to our organization through contracted work. We are incredibly grateful for the talented community members who help us and the founders we serve thrive!
Learn more in our Annual Report
Startup Sioux Falls Sponsors
These organizations provide financial support for Startup Sioux falls
