March 25, 2024

Six startups and eight student-led business concepts have been chosen to compete in the Governor’s Giant Vision Competition.

The annual event is hosted by the  South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry and marks its 20th anniversary this year. It will be held April 11 at the Sioux Falls Convention Center and open to the public from 9 to 11:30 a.m.

The following businesses will compete for a top prize of $20,000:

• AchiTalk, founded by Florian Hoxha of Sioux Falls: Simplify and enhance global recruitment and education processes through innovative AI solutions, making hiring efficient for companies and preparing students effectively for their careers.
• Dakota Adventure Supply, founded by Jeff Hayward and Paxton Alsgaard of Sioux Falls: Company dedicated to crafting not just outdoor gear but symbols of adventure that endure. Mission extends beyond selling products; it’s about promoting a sense of adventure and building camaraderie with others.
• Desty LLC, founded by Alisha Vincent and Rajesh Kavasseri of Brookings: Modernizing the travel agent industry, offering a one-of-a-kind service using proprietary databases, algorithms and artificial intelligence.
• Kirkwall, founded by William Cromarty of Sioux Falls: Defends autonomous systems from critical failure. Algorithm enables cyberattack detection, diagnostic monitoring and preventative maintenance for unmanned aerial vehicles, IoT-enabled ag tech and industrial systems.
• Pioneer BioTech, founded by Matthew Cole and Brock Hansen of Brookings: Developing natural products derived from microbial fermentation, providing an eco-friendly alternative to chemical treatments for crop diseases.
• Straight Up Care, founded by Melissa Dittberner of Volin: Web-based platform ecosystem for substance use and mental health, Peer Specialists features a learning management system and HIPAA-compliant service delivery SaaS, reducing the nationwide care burden and improving addiction and mental health outcomes for clients.

Additionally, eight student-led businesses will compete for a $5,000 first-place prize for the best business idea.

• Airborne Dynamic Systems: Innovative UAV technology that combines customization and adaptability, providing clients with comprehensive aerial data solutions. Zachary Holloway and Carson Daly, South Dakota Mines.
• Biotech Jet: Offers a revolutionary step-by-step instructional format that guides users through the entire regulatory compliance process. Avery Del Grosso, University of South Dakota.
• KU Craftmanship:  Owner experienced in woodworking and cabinetry, along with an associate degree in architectural design and building construction, seeks to create a niche by delivering superior products and exceptional customer service. Kelton Quinn, Mitchell Technical College.
• NAMI:  Approach to mental health that is a fusion of psycho-performance and AI, setting it apart from competitors in the workplace wellness industry. Diana Li, Northern State University.
• Resto Rides:  E-commerce-based business that sells new old stock parts, accessories and vehicles. Justice Forster and Pack Forster, home school.
• SK Reproductions:  Reproduced high-value rifles that address the unmet needs of gun owners who desire access to historically significant rifles. Storm King, South Dakota Mines.
• SwiftHumanity Rescue: Transformative solution to the challenge of delayed emergency response by connecting individuals in distress with nearby volunteers through a mobile application. Hosein Mirazi, South Dakota Mines.
• Tier Five: Unique and innovative solution to address campus safety concerns by providing a comprehensive app that combines campus resources, security features and social engagement. Alexandria Arndt, Northern State University.

The April 11 event includes individual presentations to a panel of judges, with competitors scored on their business pitches, including topics such as market, opportunity, management and potential for growth.

Giant Vision is a program of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry, made possible by matching-funds support for prize money from the Governor’s Office of Economic Development, with corporate contributions providing additional prize money and funds necessary to run the event. No public funds are used to run the competition.

The student competition is supported by Citi and South Dakota EPSCoR. The business/open competition is supported by Black Hills Energy, Christiansen Land & Cattle, Dacotah Bank, First Premier Bank/Premier Bankcard, Keloland Media Group, MidAmerican Energy, NorthWestern Energy, Valley Queen Cheese and Wheeler Manufacturing. The program chair is Brad Wheeler of Wheeler Manufacturing in Lemmon. Wheeler is an original founder of the competition and a past chair of the South Dakota Chamber board of directors.