By: Dean Dziedzic – Vice President of Economic Development
Trade shows, conferences and site consultant forums are just a few ways that the Sioux Falls Development Foundation strategizes to attract and recruit new business opportunities to the Sioux Falls region. In the past few months, we’ve attended and participated in the Area Development Site Consultant Forum and the Logistics Development Forum.
At these events there’s a diverse audience of industry leaders, potential investors, and influential decision-makers under one roof. For economic developers, these events offer a unique platform to highlight the strengths and opportunities of their regions. Beyond the surface-level exposure, the true value lies in the chance to engage directly with site consultants—individuals who hold significant sway over corporate relocation and expansion decisions.
Site consultants play a pivotal role in guiding businesses through the complex process of selecting new locations. Their recommendations can lead to substantial economic benefits for the regions they endorse. By attending these events, we strive to establish and nurture relationships with these consultants, showcasing the Sioux Falls region’s unique selling points and addressing specific queries or concerns.
At both the Site Consultants Forum and Logistics Development Forum we were able to engage consultants in face-to-face meetings. This type of marketing is more impactful than traditional marketing methods. These interactions allow for immediate feedback, deeper discussions, and the ability to tailor pitches to the needs and preferences of each consultant. This personalized approach helps build trust and rapport, increasing the likelihood that a consultant will consider or recommend Sioux Falls in their future projects.
Over the years the Development Foundation has engaged with site consultants on many fronts. We view this as more than just a networking opportunity—it’s a strategic move for our community to elevate Sioux Falls. By investing time and effort into these events, we can build meaningful connections, gain critical insights, and position Sioux Falls as a top contender for new business investments. In a competitive economic landscape, the relationships and knowledge gained at these events can make all the difference in achieving long-term success and growth.