PIERRE, S.D. (Jan. 15, 2026) — Dakota Resources will kick off its 30th anniversary celebration with a public reception on Thursday, January 15, 2026, inviting community members, partners, and supporters to join in recognizing three decades of investment in rural South Dakota communities.

The 30th Anniversary Kickoff Reception will be held 4:30–6:00 p.m. CT at RedRossa Italian Grill – Hills Highland Ballroom in Pierre. A short program will begin at 5:00 p.m. and will include remarks and proclamation of January 15, 2026 as “Dakota Resources’ 30^th Anniversary Day” from Governor Larry Rhoden and brief comments from Dakota Resources.

“The many ways this organization has been able to help rural community leaders over 30 years is pretty remarkable. It has required great leadership and dedication from a whole lot of people and partner organizations to make that happen. But ultimately, people who improve rural communities are those local leaders who are working every day to help their community thrive,” said Joe Bartmann, President of Dakota Resources.

A day at the Capitol to mark the milestone

In addition to the public reception, Dakota Resources and invited guests will participate in several activities at the Capitol on January 15, including an introduction of Dakota Resources to the legislature, a Capitol tour, visits to legislative chambers, and peer-to-peer conversation with partner organizations. While daytime activities are reserved for Dakota Resources and invited guests, everyone is welcome to join the public reception that evening.

30 years of rural community impact

Founded on January 2, 1996, by a group of 13 South Dakotans, Dakota Resources, a Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI) was created to help fill a financial gap and support the work of rural economic development organizations. Since then, the organization has assisted more than 100 rural South Dakota communities, securing capital from funders and lending it directly to local economic development organizations. The result? More than $90 million in loans to rural economic development organizations.

Beyond capital, Dakota Resources works alongside rural leaders to strengthen organizational operations, build board capacity, and provide training and resources. The organization also connects economic development professionals through peer-to-peer networks designed to reduce isolation, build trust, and accelerate learning across rural South Dakota.

Continuing the celebration throughout 2026

Dakota Resources will continue celebrating its 30th year throughout 2026. The best way to stay informed about anniversary updates and stories is to sign up for the Dakota Resources newsletter at dakotaresources.org/30-years/.