Enterprise Institute

The Enterprise Institute is a nonprofit venture development organization dedicated to helping South Dakota’s high-growth startups. We support startup companies with hands-on coaching and connect them to early-stage capital by managing investor funds and networks. Through events like our Innovation Expo and other ecosystem initiatives, we bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and industry leaders to turn local innovation into sustainable, scalable companies. ▪ Dakota Seed Fund South Dakota's "first check" fund for high-growth startups. The Dakota Seed Fund invests $25K–$75K in South Dakota startups at the idea, proof-of-concept, or early revenue stage. ▪ Angel Investment Funds We manage an angel investment network across South Dakota, with one active fund currently accepting applications: Black Hills Regional Angel Fund III, LLC was formed in 2021 and is based in Rapid City, South Dakota. The fund invests in high-growth, high-potential companies that are scalable and typically differentiated by technology or first-mover advantage. The fund primarily invests in companies headquartered or operating in South Dakota. This fund does not invest in retail stores, restaurants, food trucks, service-based businesses, real estate projects, or other non-scalable business models.