TIMELINE

Rapid City Chamber of Commerce is Founded.

Rapid City Economic Development Foundation is founded to act as a vehicle for the development of the Rushmore Industrial Park receiving federal funds earmarked rebuilding infrastructure and expanding real estate opportunities after the flood of 1972.

Rapid City Economic Development Partnership is founded to improve the efforts of the Foundation and address retention and expansion of industry.

Rapid City Economic Development Loan Fund Is Created

Expansion Of The Rushmore Business Park

Black Hills Business Development Center opens on South Dakota School of Mines & Technology campus

First formal tenant occupies office space at Black Hills Business Development Center: Evans & Sutherland R&D.

February: Black Hills Regional Angel Fund, LLC launches.

Chamber of Commerce Board Focus Group concludes a streamlined economic development effort is needed.

Representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and Rapid City Economic Development Partnership boards discussed the possibilities of an aligned economic development effort.

January: Chamber of Commerce board approved the creation of a new independent organization via a joint venture agreement with the Rapid City Economic Development Partnership.

September: Strategic vision for Elevate Rapid City and 5-year goals established.

Rapid City Foundation’s acquisition of property at 18 E. Main St. from City approval.

Black Hills Business Development Center re-brands to Ascent Innovation

Elevate Rapid City creates Emergency Bridge Loan Program in response to COVID-19; Inaugural issue of Elevate Magazine is released.

Elevate Rapid City moves in new headquarters at 18 East Main St.