Build Dakota Scholarship Creates $235M in Economic Impact for South Dakota Since 2015

SOUTH DAKOTA – An economic impact report reveals the Build Dakota Scholarship Fund has contributed $235.28 million in total economic output over the past ten years. The research report, conducted by the Dakota Institute, also shows the scholarship has supported the creation of 3,218 jobs, leading to $145.7 million in state GDP.

Build Dakota has awarded 3,955 scholarships for students attending technical colleges since 2015, a number that has increased in eight of the ten years since the program’s inception.

“We see the impact these scholarships make every day in the lives of students. But when you can measure out the effect it has on the state in general, that’s truly powerful,” said Deni Martin, Program Director of the Build Dakota Scholarship.

Dana Dykhouse, Chairman of the Build Dakota Scholarship Board, reflected on the benefits for the state’s workforce, saying, “The Build Dakota Scholarship is transforming lives by providing South Dakota young people technical education and opportunity. It’s creating personal wealth and generating economic impact that goes far beyond our initial donation. I cannot think of a better investment we could have made. Build Dakota is a true South Dakota success story.”

“The beauty of the Build Dakota Scholarship program is it’s a long-term solution, not a temporary fix. We didn’t just address the immediate need for workers but ensured South Dakota had a sustainable pipeline of skilled workers for decades to come,” he added.

The 10-year economic impact study estimates effect of scholarship awards by quantifying student employment post-graduation, increased consumer demand from debt savings, and increased demand for education services. By aligning student ambition with industry needs, Build Dakota creates a virtuous cycle: students launch debt-free careers, employers secure qualified staff, and South Dakota’s communities thrive with a stronger, more resilient workforce.

Download the full report for more insights into the Build Dakota Scholarship’s impact on South Dakota.

About the Build Dakota Scholarship Fund

Since 2015, the Build Dakota Scholarship Fund has supported students entering high-need workforce programs at South Dakota’s technical colleges. The scholarship covers tuition, fees, books, and other related expenses. In return, recipients commit to working in South Dakota in their field of study for a minimum of three years after graduation.