PIERRE, S.D. – Governor Larry Rhoden announced a new round of economic development grants Tuesday aimed at bolstering the state’s growing biotechnology sector and improving industrial infrastructure. The awards include a $900,000 grant for Dakota BioWorx and $500,000 for infrastructure in Watertown, both funded through the state’s Future Fund.

Dakota BioWorx serves as a strategic partnership between South Dakota State University and the South Dakota School of Mines & Technology in Rapid City, South Dakota. The facility specializes in bioprocessing, providing a bridge for businesses to scale up laboratory innovations into commercial realities.

“Economic development is about opening more doors of opportunity for our kids and grandkids,” Rhoden said during the announcement. “We want them to be able to pursue the careers of their dreams right here in South Dakota – they shouldn’t have to go somewhere else to do it. When vision turns to action, we keep our communities growing and thriving.”

The $900,000 awarded to Dakota BioWorx is designated to help manage operating costs as the partnership continues to attract new industrial users. The facility, which utilizes expertise from researchers in Rapid City, South Dakota, focuses on value-added agriculture and sustainability.

“Ag is King in South Dakota, and I’m proud to support the great value-added ag opportunity at Dakota BioWorx,” Rhoden said. “This project will increase returns for farmers, enhance crop value, and promote sustainability. This investment will benefit not only our farmers, but also our economy and state for generations to come.”

In addition to the bioprocessing investment, the City of Watertown received a $500,000 grant for its Calvin Industrial Park. The funds are earmarked for infrastructure improvements intended to attract new businesses and create local jobs.

“In South Dakota, we don’t settle for the way things are,” Rhoden said. “We always strive to do better and pursue opportunity – and Watertown is a great example of this philosophy. This project will advance Watertown’s growth by attracting new businesses, creating more jobs, and boosting the local economy.”

The Future Fund, which provided the capital for both grants, was established to support research and economic development initiatives across the state. Governor Rhoden made the formal announcements during visits to the Dakota BioWorx facility in Brookings and Sentry in Watertown.