7/30/2025
PIERRE, S.D. – Travel South Dakota is excited to announce the launch of its Destination Development Program. This initiative is designed to strengthen and expand tourism in rural communities across the state.
In collaboration with the George Washington University Institute for Tourism Studies, this initiative is designed to help local communities take the lead in growing tourism by enhancing what makes each place unique. The program encourages innovative ideas, builds local leadership, and supports the development of authentic, high-quality experiences for visitors and residents.
Through strategic planning assistance, access to subject matter experts, seed funding, professional development, and marketing opportunities, the program empowers rural communities and tourism-related businesses to create more welcoming environments and enhance the quality of their tourism offerings. These efforts are intended to attract more visitors and deliver long-term economic and social benefits to the local economy and residents.
“During our strategic planning process, we identified a clear need for more support in our rural areas, whether for revitalization, infrastructure upgrades, or marketing,” said James Hagen, Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Tourism. “This program will strengthen tourism in rural communities, boost local economies, and improve quality of life for South Dakotans.”
Applications for the Destination Development Program will open August 4 and close August 29. Two South Dakota communities will be selected in this pilot year through a competitive application process. Selected applicants will be notified by September 10.
Communities interested in applying are encouraged to visit SDVisit.com or contact Ciara Forest, [email protected], for more information.
The South Dakota Department of Tourism is consists of Travel South Dakota and the South Dakota Arts Council, under the leadership of Secretary James D. Hagen.
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CONTACT
Katlyn Svendsen, Global Public Relations & Content Services Senior Director
Travel South Dakota
Email: [email protected]