April 25, 2023

Two Sioux Falls-area leaders are among the recipients of annual awards from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development.

Jesse Fonkert and Steve Watson received the Excellence in Economic Development Award, which recognizes individuals who have excelled in economic development over their careers.

Fonkert, president and CEO of Sioux Metro Growth Alliance, the largest regional economic development organization in the state, was honored for leading efforts to rebrand the former Lincoln County and Minnehaha County economic development organizations into SMGA, with the intention of expanding the organization’s footprint.

“He firmly believes that a regional approach to economic development enables all communities to achieve success,” GOED said in announcing the award.

Watson, a development strategist with ISG, was honored for serving South Dakotans for the past 18 years with his work in economic development.

“Watson provides growth and mentorship to communities and has worked to build strong partnerships with communities and state officials,” GOED said.

He is leading the Infrastructure First Project for the state, developing a statewide infrastructure plan, identifying 18 high-impact economic development sites, along with completing a capital improvement plan for eight communities.

Milbank was named the state’s Community of the Year for creating an environment of economic development success. The community has experienced multimillion-dollar growth from Valley Queen Cheese and Koch Center Senior Living. To accommodate future development, the community is in the planning stages of expanding its industrial park. Housing development is also a priority with three housing developments in the works, providing opportunities for single- and multifamily housing.

“Together, we are making South Dakota the best state in America to live, work and raise a family,” Gov. Kristi Noem said. “We have the strongest economy in America and the lowest unemployment rate of all time. Make no mistake – freedom generated these blessings. And the folks at the Governor’s Office of Economic Development certainly helped!”

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