Watertown Development Company

Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS) Presentation
2025-05-13 16:30 - 17:30 UTC | 110 8th ave se, 110 8th ave se, Watertown, SD, 57201, United States
Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS) Presentation

Aaron helps business owners get what they want from their businesses by implementing a complete set of proven tools to clarify their vision, gain traction through discipline and accountability and building healthy cohesive leadership teams. Don’t miss this opportunity to chat with Aaron!

When:
Tuesday, May 13, 2025 4:30 PM thru 05:30 PM

Where:

Watertown Area Home Builders Association office
110 8th Ave SE
Watertown, SD

For More Info:
Julie Kneeland
605-878-3033
wahba.sd@gmail.com

HR Basics: When Growing from Start-Up to 20+ Employees - Session 1
2025-05-13 13:00 - 14:30
About the event

You’ve done all the work to get your business up and running, and you are starting to see the momentum build. Suddenly, you find yourself starting to overflow and feel the need to bring in your first employee. Or, maybe you’ve had 5 employees the last couple years, and now see your business ready to expand to the next level.
How do you know when it’s time to expand your team? How do you grow from start-up to small business without losing that start-up adrenaline?
Join us for a two-part series “There’s No ‘I’ in Team: HR Basics When Growing from Start-Up to 20+ Employees.”
In this series, we’ll take you through the key considerations and actions you can take to make sure the culture you’re growing in your organization is the one you want. During these two sessions, we will guide you through ways in which business owners can ensure that their HR and people practices are supporting the strategies and goals you have for your business.

Session 1 – May 13th: Developing the Culture You Want, What Compliance Basics Do I Need to Consider?
Session 2 – May 20th: Recruiting & Interviewing, Hiring/Onboarding, Managing Performance, Engaging & Retaining Your Employees

Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/hr-basics-when-growing-start-20-employees-session-1-7

XYZ and Alphas. Why ALL Generations Matter in Marketing
2025-05-13 12:00 - 13:00
About the event

There are 5+ generations in the workforce. That’s all kind of buying power and a whole lot of different communication tactics to sort through. What does this mean for your target audiences? Your communication strategies? Your Snapchat streaks? Your hiring and retention?
Before you get too far down the ‘bright and shiny’ new media road, let’s talk about how each generation is different, yet similar, and how you can account for their communication needs in your business development.
Takeaways:

Who are they? Key traits and demographics of generations
How do we reach them? Communication channels of preference
How do we keep them engaged? From hiring to marketing – how to we build a successful mix of communication strategies for all?

Presented by: Melissa Harrison
As CEO at Allee Creative, Melissa Harrison has been a leader in the content marketing space for two decades. With a solid background in content production and publication management, her niche is in omni-channel marketing and comprehensive content strategy development. Melissa leads marketing strategies for brands across the globe through creation, curation, content execution and metrics analysis. Melissa was recently named a Notable Marketing Leader by Twin Cities Business and has received numerous recognitions and accolades throughout her career. Melissa’s notable clients of record include 3M Littmann Stethoscopes, YMCA, SPR Therapeutics, Capella University, Minnesota State Bar Association, Therapixel, Endeavor Air, Optum and Lifetouch. In addition to leading Allee Creative, she is a mother of four, an active volunteer in her community and a lover of books.
Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/xyz-and-alphas-why-all-generations-matter-marketing-1

Compensation: Making Heads or Tails of Pay Decisions
2025-05-08 11:30 - 12:30

Tax Basics 101
2025-05-08 11:00 - 13:00
About the event

Business Taxes: Keep your business out of trouble with the IRS
No one wants a “friendly” letter from the IRS. Taxes are an important part of starting a business and it’s not as difficult as you think! But where do you start?
How should I set up my business: as a sole proprietor, LLC, corporation, or partnership? What can I deduct and how do I track my expenses? How do I report my business income and expenses?
This webinar will answer all of these questions and more!
Presented by: Ruth Ann Michnay, CPA, MBT, EA, USTCP

Ruth Ann Michnay is an enrolled agent, and a United States Tax Court Practitioner, has a practice in St. Paul, Minnesota, where she concentrates in tax representation, tax preparation (individual and small businesses), and accounting services/consulting. She served on the American Institute of CPAs’ Advocacy & Relations Committee (formerly IRS Practice and Procedures Committee, 2012–2015 and 2004–2007) and published articles in AICPA The Tax Adviser and the MN CPA Footnote. Ruth Ann teaches for the University of Minnesota Income Tax Course (2003 to current). She has been an adjunct professor for twelve years at Metropolitan State University and periodically for several other Universities and colleges in the area.
Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/tax-basics-101-18

Principles of Lean Series - Watertown
2025-05-08 09:00 - 2025-05-09 16:00 | The Goss Operah House, 100 E Kemp Ave The Studio, Watertown, SD, 57201, United States
Learn practical tools and strategies to streamline processes, boost productivity, and drive continuous improvement.
This 6-part series meets once per month for 6 months.
Dates in the series:

May 8th, 2025*
June 5th, 2025
July 3rd, 2025
August 7th, 2025
Day 5: TBD
Day 6 TBD

*Actual start date TBD when class is full. Dates may shift accordingly.
Topics covered:

8 Wastes
5S & Visual Workplace
Standardized Work
Kanban Systems
Single Piece Flow
Value Stream Mapping
Quick Changeover
Cellular Manufacturing
Total Productive Maintenance
Creating a Lean Culture

For more information please contact Pete!
Pete Menke
605-261-2831
pete.menke@sdmanufacturing.com
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/principles-of-lean-series-watertown-registration-1078934023709?aff=oddtdtcreator
*To be billed for your ticket please use promo code: INVOICE

Energize! 2025
2025-05-08 - 2025-05-09 | Platte Community Center, 310 Main Street, Platte, SD, 57369, United States
Join SDSU Extension and the community of Platte for the seventh annual Energize conference on May 6–7, 2025. The conference begins with a light lunch, registration, and networking with resource partners at 10:30 a.m. on Tuesday, May 6, and concludes early Wednesday afternoon, May 7. Grab lunch in Platte before you head home energized to lead your community to success.
Why should you attend Energize?

Platte, a south-central South Dakota community of about 1,200, boasts a strong mix of retail, manufacturing, agricultural and tourist businesses and active nonprofit and volunteer community organizations.
This isn’t your typical conference! Energize is a “walking conference,” a chance to explore the community, meet local business owners, and exchange success stories with leaders from across South Dakota. Expect to leave with ideas to bring back to your own community!

Registration
Early registration of only $99 ends April 1. Registration will cost $125 from April 2 through the registration deadline of April 18. When you register a group of three, from the same community at the same time, the group will receive a $63 discount. Those under the age of 21 can register for $60 when entering your birthdate at checkout. Registration will be available at the door on a space-available basis for $175.
REGISTER ON EVENTBRITE
No refunds will be issued after Friday, April 18 due to deadlines for meal and amenity counts. Contact Peggy Schlechter, Kara Harders, Kellie Kolb or Emily Kluin for more information.
Rebecca Undem
Keynote Speaker – Rebecca Undem has always been passionate about two things: people and talking to people. As an inspirational speaker, community advocate, author of How Mommy Got Her Groove Back™, and host of the podcast The Growing Small Towns Show, she’s put her gift of gab to good use.
Rebecca gained her chops as a people developer through an international talent management firm. She’s worked with hundreds of company leaders to improve their bottom-line results by focusing on their greatest asset: their people.
As Founder and Executive Director of Growing Small Towns, a non-profit organization, Rebecca helps the communities they serve be places people love to call home through programs that grow their human, social, and cultural capital.
Not one to let people down, Rebecca still lives up to her childhood label of drama queen. She binges on Netflix shows, coffee, and anything that makes her feel verklempt—her self-declared favorite feeling. Rebecca went against her youthful declarations and married a farmer, Jeremiah, and together, they have three amazing kids: Andrew, Carter, and Brynlee. They love their small town and the crazy-good life they get to live there.
Breakout Sessions – Hear about area success stories on the following topics:

Arts & Culture in Your Community
Engaging Community Members
Funding Community Projects
Rural Tourism

Networking – Experience networking with residents from other rural communities and resource providers that have tools to help you improve your community all while taking the time to explore Platte. You will also enjoy great food and entertainment with an evening event hosted by the Platte Energize committee.
Voices of the Next Generation Entrepreneur Panel – This popular panel is back again. Engage with young entrepreneurs currently operating successful businesses in South Dakota. Learn how you can support and encourage young entrepreneurs in your community.
A complete schedule will be posted at a later date.

Unlock Your Brilliance: Ignite Your Confidence and Vision
2025-05-07 12:00 - 13:30
About the event

Reconnect with the dreams that once fueled your childhood and shift your mindset to believe anything is possible. In this empowering workshop, you’ll discover your authentic self and gain actionable strategies to become the confident leader you’re meant to be—both in life and in your business.
You will learn:

Reignite Your Vision – Tap into the boundless creativity you had as a child to set bold, ambitious goals for your personal and professional life.
Shift Your Mindset – Transform limiting beliefs into powerful opportunities for growth and innovation, fueling your business and personal success.
Take Inspired Action – Embrace the 100-hour rule, dedicating just 18 minutes daily to unlock your creativity and build the confidence needed to move your business forward.

Presented by: Cindy Karnes
Cindy empowers women in business who feel like they don’t belong to embrace their authentic selves and develop unshakable confidence. Through dynamic courses, engaging webinars, and personalized mentoring, she helps clients uncover their core identity using personality archetype assessments and Qi Men Dun Jia tools.
With over 20 years of experience in corporate IT, Cindy understands the journey from self-doubt to confidence firsthand. After facing a life-altering stroke and navigating the challenges of a global pandemic, she rewrote her own story and now guides others to do the same.
As the Empowered Hours Club founder, Cindy teaches women how to overcome self-sabotaging traits, step into their brilliance, and design extraordinary lives. Her mission is to help women break through doubt and claim the confidence they deserve.
Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/unlock-your-brilliance-ignite-your-confidence-and-vision

The Basics of Quickbooks Online
2025-05-07 09:00 - 11:00 | Online
The Basics of QuickBooks Online
The Small Business Development Center (SBDC) will be offering the Basics of QuickBooks Online (QBO) on Wednesday, May 7, 2025. QuickBooks Online software will be used for this virtual workshop presentation. Participants will view the software live on screen. Join Kelly Weaver of the SBDC on a tour of QBO to learn the various accounting functions within this powerful tool. This training is offered at no charge in partnership with SBDC, GROW South Dakota, and SBA.
Location: Virtual event
Date and time: Wed, May 7, 2025 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM CT
Organizer: Kelly Weaver, (605) 698-7654, kelly@growsd.org

TICKETS

Event Ticket

https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/frcmbfr?source_id=cdd1ba37-7cc2-4c17-840d-c37c68e50a60&source_type=em&c=VpyLjz_qutsa3y1TnZ50UleBQS8FfyL9k09raQ37cuX_X2xcDaQeJg==

SBA AI Learning Lab: 5 Things You Can and Should Be Doing With AI, Right Now
2025-05-06 13:00 - 15:00
Event description
Join us for an exciting, hands-on AI Learning Lab where we’ll demystify artificial intelligence and show you five simple, powerful ways to use it in your professional and personal life — no tech background required!
In this interactive, hands-on session, you’ll learn how AI can help you with:

streamlining your workflow
sparking creativity
mastering your time

You’ll walk away with practical tips and tools you can start using immediately to reclaim your time and boost your efficiency. Whether you’re a busy professional, an entrepreneur, or just AI-curious, this lab will leave you inspired and empowered. Learn how to let AI do the heavy lifting for you!
Sign up now and take the first step toward an AI-powered, more productive you!
——
Registration Fee: $45
Event is virtual
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MORE ABOUT NICK SALLER
Working with his father from the age of 11, Nicholas Saller launched his first business at 15. He used that business and the lessons learned to help pay for college and grad school. The real-world experience has enabled him to transform struggling companies into million-dollar ventures. He has successfully executed turnarounds, launched startups, and even developed a software replacement that saved a company 6 figures.
Adopting AI in 2014 for the first time, he turned a previously unprofitable business unit into a profit-generating entity for the first time in its 70-year history. Currently, he advises companies on growth and scale, leveraging over 30 years of experience. More recently, he has been deploying AI for countless use cases to help businesses, which has led to speaking engagements on the topic of AI best practices in business and a recent college extension course teaching opportunity on the topic of AI Prompting.
When not excited about building businesses and AI, he can be found enjoying time with his lovely wife, Lindsey, their furry sidekicks, Kita and Kaia, and practicing martial arts in anticipation of a future life of crimefighting.
Registration Policies:
Registration and Fees: Payment for SD CEO West Women’s Business Center workshop and event fees may be made by credit card, check or with an invoice. Payment must be received to guarantee your space in an event.
Refund Policy: All SD CEO registration payments for workshops and conferences are final. Your registration fee may be applied to a future event if you cancel at least seven days prior to an event, or you may give your registration to a colleague or associate. Any registration cancellations less than seven days prior to an event will not be applied to a future training. If you wish to request a refund, please contact Ashley Wingert (Ashley.Wingert@bhsu.edu).
Special Accommodations: Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact Ashley Wingert (Ashley.Wingert@bhsu.edu or 605-642-6948). Registration must be paid prior to accommodation requests.
The SD CEO West Women’s Business Center is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration.
Register(Link is external)

Business 201
2025-05-06 12:00 - 13:30
About the event

Business 201 helps you establish a foundation that lasts for your business.
In this session we’ll cover the following: thinking like an entrepreneur; establish a foundation for business growth; developing agility and resilience; and putting people first.
*This session will not be recorded.
Presented by: Kaltrina Rezniqi
Kaltrina Rezniqi, Vice President, Sr. Business Consultant for Chase in Minneapolis, Minnesota . I have over 10 years of experience in financial services. My goal is to understand your business in a way that allows Chase to bring unique insights and value to every interaction with your business. I can provide you access to the broader team of experts in areas such as cash management, credit solutions, and other business services. Additionally, our advanced online capabilities and mobile tools give you access to your Chase business accounts from most digital devices. And you’ll have access to telephone banking options that can make your banking more convenient.
Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/business-201-1

EDPA Spring Tour
2025-05-06 10:00 - 12:00 | Lake Area Tech, 1201 Arrow Ave NE, Watertown, SD, 57201, United States
Join us for a discussion on economic development with Michael Bockorny, the CEO of the Economic Development Professionals Association of South Dakota. Michael will share comments covering the activities of EDPA over the past year, discuss the planned activities for the upcoming year, and talk about potential legislation for the 2026 session. This is also our time to share with Michael the challenges and needs of our community/region related to economic development.

Location: LATC, Archway Room 1211
Time: 10am-12pm
Date: May 6th, 2025

No RSVP needed.

Patent and Trademark Searching
2025-05-06 10:00 - 11:30
About the event

A discussion of patent and trademark searching and the free resources available for conducting searching. We will discuss why and why not to conduct a search prior to filing, briefly demonstrate some of the free online resources available for conducting searching, explain the classification systems used by the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office, and provide some searching tips.
Presented by: Jim Larson
Jim is an intellectual property attorney based in Minneapolis, MN. Jim has an undergraduate degree in Aerospace Engineering from the University of Minnesota and a law degree from Mitchell Hamline School of Law. Prior to entering private practice, Jim was a Patent Examiner at the United States Patent & Trademark Office. Jim also helped start and run a law firm from 2005 to 2024. Jim represents clients of all sizes from multinational corporations to individuals.
Presented by: Greg Golla
Greg Golla practices general intellectual property law with an emphasis on trademark, Internet, copyright, licensing agreements, and litigation. He has successfully represented clients involved in domestic and foreign trademark oppositions and cancellation proceedings and litigated trademark infringement, unfair competition, and trademark dilution cases and appeals. Greg has broad experience with Internet law, including domain name disputes and acquisitions.
He is also experienced in all phases of trademark prosecution, including the preparation of trademark clearance and availability opinions, preparation and prosecution of trademark applications, and conducting appeals before the Trademark Trial and Appeal Board. Greg has published articles and given frequent presentations on Internet law issues.
Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/patent-and-trademark-searching

Robot Games 2025
2025-05-02 10:00 - 13:30 | Lake Area Tech, 1201 Arrow Ave NE, Watertown, SD, 57201, United States
Robot Games 2025
Wednesday, April 30, and Friday, May 2, 2025 from 10am-1:30pm
Wednesday, April 30 – IS FULL
Friday slots are still available
Open to all grades
Lake Area Technical College – Student Center Level 4
Hands-on in the LAB
Day includes stem tours & free lunch

https://www.lakeareatech.edu/academics/on-campus-programs/robotics/robot-games/

Success Mindset Mastery
2025-05-01 12:00 - 13:30
About the event

Do you ever feel like you aren’t getting the results you want even though you are smart, hard working, and good at what you do? Many times people are held back by unconscious patterns or beliefs they aren’t even aware of.
In this workshop you will learn:

Three sources of mental blocks: When you identify where your blocks come from it makes it easier to shift them.
Six common blocks: When you shift these blocks you unlock keys to your success.
Five Success Mindset Tools: How to take action so that you reprogram your mindset for success.
Goal, Intentions, and Visualization: These are the steps that create a habit where you see yourself in the future having achieved your goals.

This workshop is for anyone who wants to bring more success into their life or business and is feeling stuck about how to get there. You will learn about old thought patterns that need to shift, so that you can get the results you know you are capable of accomplishing.
Presented by: Christopher Leier
I am passionate about helping people succeed. I teach small business owners, consultants, and budding entrepreneurs how to build the confidence to reach their full potential. Helping someone move from self-doubt to unwavering belief to reaching their goals is one of the most rewarding aspects of the work that I do.
So many times business professionals have amazing talent and strong work ethic but they lack the confidence to take action. I work with them to reprogram the patterns and beliefs that are holding them back, and I do it using hypnosis. It amazes me the way the mind works. After we shift the beliefs and thoughts that are getting in the way, they are able to achieve their goals (and often in a bigger way than they had even imagined).
Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/success-mindset-mastery-3

Simple Systems to Save 10+ Hours a Week in Your Business
2025-04-30 11:00 - 12:30
About the event

Tired of doing the same tasks over and over again in your business?
Join us for a fast-paced, beginner-friendly session designed to help you work smarter — not harder. This webinar will introduce you to simple, low-cost tools and automations that can save you 10+ hours a week — even if you’re not tech-savvy.
You’ll learn:

Where most small business owners waste time without realizing it
Easy automations you can set up in under an hour
How to use AI tools like ChatGPT to streamline your emails, content, and admin
Real-world examples from businesses just like yours

Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or managing a small team, you’ll walk away with practical ideas and free tools you can start using right away, no coding required.
Presented by: Alex Storey
Alex Storey is the founder of Skill Mammoth Digital, a Minnesota-based firm that helps small businesses save time and scale smarter through workflow automation, AI tools, and system design..
Link to register: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/simple-systems-save-10-hours-a-week-your-business

Supply Chain Symposium
2025-04-30 09:00 - 16:00 | “The Lab” The Steel District, 505 North Metli Place, Sioux Falls, SD, 57104, United States
Welcome to the Supply Chain Symposium! Join us at The Lab in The Steel District on Wed Apr 30 2025 at 9:00 AM for a day filled with insightful discussions, networking opportunities, and industry trends. This event is perfect for anyone interested in learning more about supply chain management and connecting with professionals in the field. Don’t miss out on this chance to expand your knowledge and grow your network!
https://www.eventbrite.com/e/supply-chain-symposium-tickets-1297403862879?aff=oddtdtcreator

The Basics of Contracts
2025-04-29 11:00 - 12:30
About the event

No matter the service or industry, business is all about relationships. Without relationships, there would be no transactions. In business, those relationships are often formalized and governed by contracts. Every small business owner can benefit from knowing the basics of how contracts work.
In this presentation, business attorney Kimberly Hanlon will cover the most important things you need to know about contracts in plain-English. She will also provide a handy guide you can take with you to reference the next time you are getting ready to nail down your next business agreement.
In this presentation, Kimberly will cover:

What is (and isn’t) a contract?
What are the minimum requirements for a contract?
What things can never be a contract?
When does a contract have to be in writing?
Can an oral (unwritten) contract be enforced?
What are the steps to documenting an agreement informally?
When can I use an informal agreement process?
When should I seek legal help?

Presented By: Kimberly Hanlon
Kimberly Hanlon is one of the founding attorneys at Lucere Legal, where she serves business owners and entrepreneurs with business law and litigation matters. She is also the author of The Minnesota Small Business Owner’s Legal Survival Guide. She has been awarded with a Women in Business Award, an Up and Coming Attorney award, and she has been named a Super Lawyer’s Rising Star for four years. She is married to her wonderful husband Richard, and in her spare time she loves to travel (at least before COVID-19 times), read, and to do fun and creative projects.
link to registration: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/basics-contracts-6

The Unique Challenges of Marketing a Service
2025-04-29 11:00 - 12:30
About the event

Are you struggling to market your service-based business? Do you find it difficult to differentiate yourself from competitors and communicate the value of your services to potential clients? If so, our upcoming webinar on The Unique Challenges of Marketing a Service is for you!
This workshop will provide valuable insights and strategies for effectively marketing a service-based business. Topics covered will include the challenges of making your service tangible and dealing with other issues that are unique to marketing a service versus a product.
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain a competitive edge in the service industry!
LINK TO REGISTER: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/unique-challenges-marketing-a-service-4

SBA Small Business Basics
2025-04-24 17:30 - 20:30 | 100 4th St. SW, 100 4th St. SW, Huron, SD, 57350, United States
Event description
Join us for the Small Business Basics on April 24, 2025 at the Huron Event Center in Huron!
Learn about the small business basics and how to build your “startup team’ in the MRS BAIL lens. English and Spanish speaking professionals will present in the following areas: Marketing, Human Resources, Support, Business Banking, Accounting, Insurance, and Business Law.
One workshop will be conducted in English and another workshop in Spanish.

This workshop is open to women and men!
Childcare services will be offered during this program. Please register before April 10 if you need these services!
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EVENT SCHEDULE
5:30pm-6:00pm Registration, Networking, FREE headshots
6:00pm-7:00pm MRS BAIL Breakout Presentations
7:00pm-7:30pm Supper, Local Small Business Speakers
7:30pm-8:00pm Networking, FREE headshots
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Featured Speakers:
Small Business Speakers:
TBA
MRS BAIL Breakout Workshop Speakers:
Marketing | TBA
Human Resources | TBA
Support | TBA
Banking | TBA
Accounting | TBA
Insurance | TBA
Law | TBA
—
Individual tickets cost $35 and table (8) eight seats cost $250. Each ticket includes (1) one lunch and refreshments.
CHILDCARE DEADLINE: April 10, 2025 at 5:00pm
TICKET DEADLINE: April 16, 2025 at 5:00pm
Late TICKET DEADLINE: April 21, 2025 at 5:00pm and individual tickets will cost $50
—
Vendor Booths cost $70 and include (1) one lunch meal.
—
Interested in sponsoring this event? Contact Sadie Swier at Sadie.Swier@bhsu.edu
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Have questions? Need help registering? Contact the SD CEO team at 605-631-9106 or email Sadie.Swier@bhsu.edu.
The SD CEO East Women’s Business Center, is funded in part by the U.S. Small Business Administration. Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact Sadie Swier (Sadie.Swier@BHSU.edu.)

Register(Link is external)

SBA Social Media Playbook: Real Strategies for Big Results
2025-04-24 14:00 - 16:00 | BHSU Black Hills Campus, 4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder, SD, 57719, United States
Event description
Date: 4/24/2025
Time: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM (MDT)
Status: Open – 7 places remaining
Registration Deadline: 4/23/2025 7:00 PM (MDT)
Fee: $35.00 Registration Policies(Link is external)
Point of Contact: Ashley Wingert(Link sends email) (605) 642-6948
Location: BHSU – Rapid City Campus 4300 Cheyenne Blvd, Box Elder SD 57719(Link is external)
Training Topics: Marketing/Sales, Social Media
Description:
Ready to turn your social media into a business growth machine?
This hands-on workshop is designed for busy business owners who want real, actionable strategies to grow their online presence without the stress.
You’ll learn how to:
– Create content that connects with your audience.
– Build a simple yet effective social media strategy.
– Save time while posting consistently.
– Turn followers into paying customers.
Whether you’re just starting or looking to level up, this workshop will give you the tools and confidence to make social media work for you. Don’t miss this opportunity to transform your online presence and attract the customers you’ve been dreaming of!
—–
Registration Fee: $35
This event is hands-on and limited to 20 attendees.
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MORE ABOUT TONYA DIRKS
Tonya Dirks is the owner of Inspired Bliss Creative, a social media marketing agency that helps businesses grow through effective, time-saving social media strategies. With a passion for creativity and helping other businesses, Tonya understands the unique challenges small businesses face and makes social media approachable, fun, and impactful. Known for her laid-back, “no-drama” approach, she believes social media is never an emergency—but consistency and strategy are key. Her mission is to give business owners their time back while helping them attract and connect with their ideal audience.

Register(Link is external)

Insurance Basics for Small Businesses
2025-04-24 12:00 - 13:30
About the event

Are you a small business owner looking for the right insurance coverage? Join this workshop where we will help you understand the different types of insurance coverage available and which ones are best suited for your specific business needs.
LEARN:

When does my small business need an insurance policy ?
What questions should I be asking about my business and coverage?
What types of coverage ( e.g. people, property) is most essential?
What is covered under various policies?

LINK TO REGISTER: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/insurance-basics-small-businesses-14

23rd Annual Governors Luncheon
2025-04-24 11:30 - 13:00 | Lake Area Tech, 1201 Arrow Ave NE, Watertown, SD, 57201, United States
Purchase Your Sponsorship or Tickets Today!

Date: Thursday April 24, 2025

Time: 11:30am – 1:00pm
Location: Lake Area Technical College, Watertown SD – Student Center Level 4
Join Governor Larry Rhoden in building a stronger future for Lake Area Tech with scholarships & campus improvements!
Keynote Speaker: Governor Larry Rhoden
Please complete each of the following fields. Thank you for your consideration.

Sponsorship Level and Ticket Options
Event Sponsor……….…………………….$1,500.00

Corporate logo on paper or e-invite (deadline passed)
Corporate logo in the event program
Corporate logo displayed on table
Corporate pop-up banner displayed at event (Please note, pop-up banners work best.)
Corporate logo displayed on the event page on Lake Area Tech’s website
Corporate logo in event advertising (radio – if received prior to radio ad being recorded)
Reserved table of 8 (tickets valued at $40 each)

Event Sponsor status must be secured by April 12th in order to finalize marketing pieces, if time allows or as indicated above for invite and radio ad.

Event Partner…….………………………..$750.00

Corporate name in the program
Corporate logo displayed on table
Corporate pop-up banner displayed at event (Please note, pop-up banners work best.)
Corporate logo displayed on the event page on Lake Area Tech’s website
Reserved table of 8 (tickets valued at $40 each)

Event Partner status must be secured by April 12th in order to finalize marketing pieces, if time allows.
Reserved Table of 8 …………………….………………$500.00

Corporate logo displayed on table
Corporate name in the program
Reserved table of 8 (tickets valued at $40 each)

Shared Table of 8 ……………………………….………$300.00

Shared corporate name displayed on table
Reserved shared table of 8 (4 tickets each business) (tickets valued at $40 each)

Individual Event Tickets……………….$40/each
LATC Alumni Event Ticket………………………$35/each

TICKETS:
https://forms.donorsnap.com/form?id=9653b33f-36f8-474b-a1ad-b89cbddec73d

Start with Brand 3: Design Basics
2025-04-24 11:00 - 12:30
About the event

Start with Brand (Win at Marketing)
Marketing is a heavy investment. With all its complexities, it’s tempting to “throw stuff at the wall” to see what sticks. But when you have limited resources, this approach can be costly and detrimental.
Start with Brand is a three-part series designed to help small business owners stop gambling with their time, money, and success. Brand Strategist, Kesha Lien, will lead you through creating a brand blueprint – a strategy-driven approach to eliminating guesswork, making smart decisions, and gaining marketing confidence.
Learn how to define your unique selling proposition, communicate with your audience, and make sure all of your marketing efforts align with your true north.
Brand Positioning (February 27, 2025):Tackle the behind-the-scenes work that determines your competitive edge.
Messaging & Identity (March 27, 2025): Move beyond features and benefits to connect with your audience in meaningful ways.
Design Basics (April 24, 2025): Create visual content that communicates your story and amplifies your purpose.
Presented by: Kesha Lien
Kesha Lien is a brand strategist + designer who partners with C-suite executives, marketing professionals, and small business owners to launch, grow, and redefine brands.
Her no-nonsense, strategy-driven approach is rooted in 20 years of professional experience and lessons learned. In 2018 she founded Brickhouse, a brand strategy consultancy, to change how real-world business leaders apply marketing in theory and practice.

LINK TO SIGN UP: https://www.score.org/twincities/event/start-brand-3-design-basics-2

Coding Game Night
2025-04-22 19:00 - 20:00 | SDSU Extension, 1910 West Kemp Ave, Watertown, SD, 57201, United States
Join East Central AEYC at one these three locations to explore coding with preschool aged children! Coding helps take the fear out of making mistakes or failing. It teaches persistence in finding a way to solve your problem. We will engage in conversation and
connection while learning more about South Dakota AEYC.
Location:

Watertown – Audrey Rider SDSU Extension
1910 West Kemp Ave (Entrance B)
audrey.rider@sdstate.edu

Coding Game Night (2)

SBA Strengthen your property with SBA mitigation assistance - virtual webinar
2025-04-22 18:00 - 19:00
Event description
The U.S. Small Business Administration is hosting a virtual Information Session where you’ll learn:

How to protect your home or business from the next disaster.
How additional SBA disaster loan options can be used to strengthen your property.
Examples of mitigation strategies with industry experts from FEMA.

These sessions are designed to provide SBA borrowers and future borrowers, with the information and guidance on the SBA disaster loan option. This option allows property owners to add funds to their SBA physical disaster loans – up to 20% of the verified loss – to mitigate their property from any future peril.
The application period for SBA’s physical disaster loans has been extended through April 27.
Read more about SBA mitigation assistance.
Register(Link is external)

SBA Money Smart: Selling Your Business and Succession Planning: Developing an Exit Strategy for Your Business
2025-04-22 11:00 - 12:00
Event description
Join the Nebraska/South Dakota/Oklahoma District Offices of the U.S. Small Business Administration for an instructor-led webinar series, Money Smart, designed for new or operating small business owners ~ with or without formal business training. This series provides a practical introduction to aspects of starting and managing a business. The curriculum is developed jointly by the FIDC and the SBA.
The curriculum includes twelve modules. All sessions will be virtual only, running every Tuesday beginning February 4, 2025 through April 22, 2025 from 11AM CDT to 12PM CDT. The last session in the Money Smart Webinar Series is:
4/22/25 Selling Your Business and Succession Planning: Developing an Exit Strategy for
Your Business.
We look forward to seeing you!
Register(Link is external)

SBA South Dakota Business Builders - Connecting Businesses to Global Markets
2025-04-17 15:30 - 16:30
Join us for an insightful webinar where we’ll explore how our global network of trade professionals, based in the U.S. and U.S. Embassies worldwide, can help your business expand internationally. Learn how the U.S. government can provide exclusive access to lucrative opportunities in over 80 countries, opening doors that others can’t. Our expert, results-driven counseling is tailored to help you navigate global markets and achieve business success. South Dakota Trade was created to help navigate international trade for South Dakota businesses. Our association administers South Dakota’s STEP Grant program, conducts export education, facilitates trade missions, and offers free and confidential consulting services to South Dakotan companies. We will share local success stories, how to use the STEP grant, upcoming trade missions, our partners, etc.
Register(Link is external)

Learn the Basics of Canva!
2025-04-16 10:00 - 11:00 | Online
Learn the Basics of Canva!

GROW South Dakota and the Small Business Development Center have teamed up to offer you the Basics of Canva class. You will learn how to design a variety of graphics, including logos, social media posts, and posters. Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refine your skills, this class will help you bring your creative ideas to life!

Virtual location
You will receive a confirmation email with a URL.

Apr 16, 2025 10:00am – Apr 16, 2025 11:00am
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Register

SBA HR for Small Businesses - Session 4 - Benefits & Payroll
2025-04-15 08:00 - 17:00
Event description
You have your LLC, EIN, State Tax License, and now you’re ready to take the next step to grow your business and hire an employee – WONDERFUL! But how do you do THAT?!?
Join industry experts Shelly Rose, Coeur Wharf, Christine Burger, Sanford Underground Research Facility, and Synova Nicolaisen, Black Hills HR Consulting, for four practical workshops in the series to kick-start the process of hiring employees.
This workshop series is perfect for any small business owner, whether you’re new to having employees or want to make sure you’re compliant and following industry best practices.
Benefits & Payroll
How do you balance providing employee benefits when you feel like you’re not making money? Do you feel like your business is too small to offer benefits?
In this session we will discuss:

Benefits you must offer (i.e., wages)
Benefits employers offer to keep their team happy (PTO, flexible workschedules, retirement, etc.)
How frequently to pay employees and reporting
When to consider increasing wages and by how much

You’ve invested so much to hire a great employee, training and onboarding them to learn the nuances of your business, and now you want to keep them long-term. Let’s talk about all these topics and more.
Register(Link is external)
