Dakota Seed Fund

If you're building a technology startup in South Dakota, the Dakota Seed Fund may be your first institutional check. Powered by the South Dakota Enterprise Institute, the fund exists to help entrepreneurs transform early ideas into scalable, investable companies.

The Dakota Seed Fund invests $25,000 up to $75,000 into South Dakota startups at the idea, proof-of-concept, or early revenue stage. Investment size depends on stage, scope, and milestone plan. Funding is milestone-based, so you receive capital as you hit key progress points.

You Might Be a Fit If You:

Are based in or building your company in South Dakota.
Are building a tech-enabled or innovation-driven business with potential to scale beyond South Dakota.
Have a clear problem and a compelling solution.
Are ready to move from idea to execution.

This Fund Is Not For:

Traditional small businesses, franchise operations, real estate, or service-based companies.
Companies seeking an alternative to conventional lending or equipment financing.
Businesses that are already well-capitalized and don't need early-stage support.

How It Works

Tell Us About Your Startup

Connect with us through the form on our site. It's a conversation, not a commitment.

Review

We evaluate your idea, team, and market opportunity. Based on our review, we may invite you to apply to the fund or refer you to a better fit.

Due Diligence

For invited applicants, we take a closer look at your team, market, technology, and financials. We'll be straightforward about what we need and move through the process quickly.

Decision

Our investment committee reviews completed due diligence and makes investment decisions.

Build

Receive milestone-based funding as you hit key progress points and grow your company.

Connect With Us

Whether you have a fully formed idea or you're just getting started, we'd like to hear about what you're building.

Fill out the form below and someone from our team will follow up.

Tell Us About Your Startup

Beyond Capital

We don't just invest — we help you move forward with confidence. Through the Enterprise Institute's network, you'll gain:

Access to experienced advisors and founders who've built companies in South Dakota.
Connections across the state's startup, investor, and economic development ecosystem.
Help preparing for your next fundraising round, including introductions to angel groups and venture funds.
Hands-on support through the Enterprise Institute staff, programming, and events like the Innovation Expo.