May 1, 2026

Expansion Capital Group has awarded a $25,000 prize to The Good Earth Farm in Lennox as part of a small business contest.

The Sioux Falls-based fintech company created the contest to support local entrepreneurs and recognize small businesses making an impact in the region.

The Good Earth Farm, founded by Jeff and Nancy Kirstein in Lennox, operates as both a working farm and event venue focused on sustainable living and community connection.

The funding will be used to build a commercial kitchen, allowing the business to move operations out of a residential space and expand its food offerings. The upgrade is expected to support growth in its popular wood-fired pizza service and event catering, with projected revenue increases of up to 50 percent.

“This capital allows us to scale our mission and share the heart of the American farmstead with even more people,” Nancy Kirstein said.

The expansion is expected to support several aspects of the business, including increasing production of its farm-to-table pizza, enhancing its event offerings and continuing to operate its on-site animal sanctuary.

Expansion Capital Group received more than 80 submissions for the contest.

“The story of The Good Earth Farm and its community impact was the catalyst for its selection,” said Tim Mages, CEO of Expansion Capital Group. “This contest was our way of saying thank you to the local businesses that help keep our region vibrant and growing.”

The Small Business Spotlight contest is open to registered small businesses in the greater Sioux Falls area. Entries are evaluated by a panel of judges from Expansion Capital Group and the local business community based on community impact, business story and how the funding would be used.