Category: Moving Sioux Falls Forward

Midco literally keeps Sioux Falls connected.

From its founding in 1931, the telecommunications leader has redefined connectivity, maintaining market leadership by providing exceptional customer experiences using the region’s most reliable fiber network spanning 17,000 miles. Midco services more than 1 million homes and businesses in more than 400 communities with 1,900 team members across South Dakota, North Dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin and Kansas.

“Our mission is to be the best communications company in the country for our neighbors, team members, partners and communities,” said Ben Dold, president and chief operating officer.

For the Sioux Falls area, “a telecommunications leader like Midco is critical,” said Bob Mundt, president and CEO of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation.

“Increasingly, connectivity and capacity for data drive economic development. We’re fortunate that not only does Midco provide best-in-class products and services but also continually sets an example of how to give back to our community.”

Here’s a closer look at the business, courtesy of Ben Dold.

Business name: Midco

Year founded: 1931

Year operations began in Sioux Falls: 1931, the year our founders opened the Welworth Theaters Company

Total employees in the Sioux Falls area: 750

CEO/lead executive in Sioux Falls: Ben Dold, president and chief operating officer

How would you describe your organization to someone not familiar with it?

We offer best-in-class internet, TV and phone services backed by our award-winning fiber network, and our new mobile product will fully launch next year.

What are the top three reasons you continue to locate in the Sioux Falls area?

1. People: We love serving our customers in Sioux Falls and believe in hiring our Midco team members from the communities we serve. Our hardworking, dedicated and professional Sioux Falls team members work in a variety of roles from field technician positions and customer care to analysts and engineers.
2. Business climate: Midco has successfully evolved its product offerings across entertainment, radio, television, fiber internet and beyond because of the business-friendly environment in Sioux Falls. A city that encourages innovation, creativity and development is the perfect fit for Midco.
3. Legacy: Nearly 100 years ago, Midco’s founders launched a company that dedicated itself to improving the lives of its customers. We believe in honoring that legacy by being a “Force for Good” in everything that we do in Sioux Falls. Our community impact includes more than $6 million in grants from the Midco Foundation, thousands of hours in team-member volunteering through Midco ACTS, community sponsorships, free public service announcements for nonprofits and more.

What are you most proud of within your business in the past year?

We’re incredibly proud of the continued investment in our fiber network, including significant upgrades right here in Sioux Falls. A robust and reliable internet connection is crucial for customers in today’s digital economy, and Midco’s investments aim to provide this for Sioux Falls homes and businesses. But don’t take our word for it — according to Ookla speed tests for Q1 and Q2 2025, Midco has the most responsive internet speeds and fastest upload speeds in Sioux Falls, and we’re confident the Q3-Q4 test results will show the same. We’re also thrilled that Midco Mobile, a cellular service that seamlessly combines reliability, affordability and our friendly customer service, will be available to our Sioux Falls customers soon!

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your business?

We heard from our customers that they want to receive more services from our trusted brand. To answer this call in an era of telecommunications convergence, Midco is launching Midco Mobile, a cellular product that will join our already trusted fiber internet, phone and TV product lineup. Midco Mobile will fully launch in 2026, and we couldn’t be more excited.

How would you describe the culture of your business in three words?

Energetic, friendly, helpful.

Why does your business choose to invest in Forward Sioux Falls?

Just as we have done throughout our history, Midco invests in people. Our participation in Forward Sioux Falls is an investment in the future jobs, infrastructure and technology that will help families in our growing city thrive.

What specific advantages or values have you found to partnering with Forward Sioux Falls and its programs?

The Forward Sioux Falls IX leadership noted that “a rising tide lifts all boats.” When the Sioux Falls economy thrives, Midco shares in that prosperity. The growth championed by Forward Sioux Falls expands our customer base, adds to our talent acquisition pool and improves the quality of life for our team members.

What are your expectations for your business in the year ahead?

Midco is excited to expand and grow its services in the Sioux Falls area by prioritizing:

• Fiber Forward: A $500 million investment in network expansion and upgrades resulting in multi-gigabit internet speeds for Sioux Falls customers.
• Midco Mobile: A straightforward, reliable and affordable mobile product for our internet customers.
• Customer service: Excellence in every customer encounter, from our incredible field team’s construction and installation services to our 24/7 Customer Care support. This priority is backed by our 12-point Midco Customer Commitment that outlines our high standards for network reliability, price transparency and customer service.

Forward Sioux Falls is a joint venture between the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and is widely respected as the premier economic driver for the Sioux Falls region. To learn more and connect, click here.

From a new headquarters campus in Sioux Falls, a family business helps brings clean, safe drinking water to communities nationwide.

Maguire specializes in the construction and maintenance of water tanks and towers. Known for expertise and reliability for more than a century, the company ensures that these vital structures are built to last and stay safe and efficient through expert care.

“This is a business that’s guided by its core values and has proven it will sustain for generations,” said Bob Mundt, president and CEO of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. “Maguire brings trusted craftsmanship and long-term dedication to every project while continually looking toward the future, both in its cutting-edge campus as well as investment in its workforce.”

Here’s a closer look at the business, courtesy of CEO Gene Jones Jr.

Business name: Maguire

Year founded: 1915

Year operations began in Sioux Falls: The 1960s

Total employees in the Sioux Falls area: 106

CEO/lead executive in Sioux Falls: Gene Jones Jr., CEO; Scott Jones, president

What are the top three reasons you continue to locate in the Sioux Falls area?

• Exceptional work ethic: Rooted in Midwestern values, the workforce in Sioux Falls brings a strong sense of responsibility, reliability and pride to their work. It’s a culture where showing up, pitching in and going the extra mile isn’t the exception — it’s the norm. This relentless work ethic fuels Maguire’s drive for excellence every day.
• Supportive, connected community: Sioux Falls offers more than just a place to work — it’s a community that rallies around its businesses. From strong local partnerships to a shared sense of purpose, the support we receive from this community helps Maguire thrive both professionally and personally.
• Pro-business environment: With a business-friendly climate, low taxes, streamlined regulations and access to top-tier infrastructure, Sioux Falls creates the ideal setting for innovation and sustainable growth. It’s a city that makes it easier for companies like Maguire to stay focused on what matters most: creating impact and delivering value.

What are you most proud of within your business in the past year?

Over the past year, Maguire is most proud of its new Sioux Falls campus.

It is a bold investment in the future, designed to foster innovation, collaboration and growth. This state-of-the-art space reflects our commitment to our people, our community and our mission to be a force for good in the water industry.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your business?

As Maguire looks to the future, one of our biggest challenges is attracting and developing the next generation of skilled team members and bold leaders. In a rapidly evolving industry, our success depends on empowering talent that’s not only technically capable but driven by purpose, curiosity and a commitment to excellence.

How would you describe the culture of your business in three words?

Team, caring, gratitude.

Why does your business choose to invest in Forward Sioux Falls?

Maguire continues to invest in Forward Sioux Falls because we believe in the power of visionary collaboration to shape a stronger, more vibrant future for our region. By supporting initiatives that drive economic growth, workforce development and innovation, we’re not just investing in Sioux Falls — we’re investing in the long-term success of the communities and industries we serve.

What specific advantages or values have you found in partnering with Forward Sioux Falls and its programs?

Partnering with Forward Sioux Falls has opened valuable opportunities for Maguire to connect with local academic institutions and regional business leaders, creating a strong pipeline of talent and innovation. Through these partnerships, we have been able to support educational programs, promote workforce development and strengthen the regional network that advances both our industry and our community.

What are your expectations for your business in the year ahead?

Looking ahead, Maguire is focused on continued growth and expanding our impact as a force for good in the water industry. We’re committed to advancing solutions, investing in innovation and empowering our team to meet the evolving needs of our customers and the communities and customers we serve. The year ahead holds exciting opportunities, and we’re ready to lead with purpose, drive meaningful change and shape a future where clean, accessible water is a reality for all.

Forward Sioux Falls is a joint venture between the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and is widely respected as the premier economic driver for the Sioux Falls region. To learn more and connect, click here.

Innovators never sit still. That’s continually the case at POET, which has grown to become a global leader in biofuel and sustainable bioproducts.

“POET is a visionary company, and we’re proud that they’re changing their industry and even the world from their home base in Sioux Falls,” said Bob Mundt, president and CEO of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation.

“The career opportunities offered at POET are exceptional, and we’re grateful to them as a broader community partner supporting workforce development and the ingredients it takes to fuel growth in a city.”

Here’s a closer look at the business, courtesy of CEO Jeff Broin.

Business name: POET

Year founded: 1987

Year operations began in Sioux Falls: 1998

Total employees in the Sioux Falls area: 380

CEO/lead executive in Sioux Falls: Jeff Broin

How would you describe your organization to someone not familiar with it?

POET is the world’s largest producer of biofuel and a global leader in sustainable bioproducts, creating plant-based alternatives to fossil fuels that unleash the regenerative power of agriculture and drive value for America’s farm families and rural communities. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Sioux Falls, POET operates 34 bioprocessing facilities across eight states and employs more than 2,400 team members. With a suite of bioproducts that includes bioethanol, high-quality animal feed ingredients, corn oil, green asphalt rejuvenator, purified alcohol and bioCO2, POET nurtures an unceasing commitment to innovation and develops practical solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges.

What are the top three reasons you continue to locate in the Sioux Falls area?

1. Its Midwest location provides a strong connection to agriculture and rural values.
2. It’s a great place to live and work, attracting top-tier talent and providing access to valuable business resources.
3. Sioux Falls is a vibrant, growing community that supports innovative businesses like POET.

What are you most proud of within your business in the past year?

POET continues to prosper and grow on all fronts. We are driving the technology platform for bioethanol production to new heights. We filed numerous new patents, completed over 190 construction projects at our sites and improved efficiency in marketing and logistics across our entire business. Our global feed product and bioCO2 markets continue to grow, and in fact, POET was recently named the 15th-largest container exporter in the United States. Renewable diesel production from soybean and corn oil continues to expand as well, driving demand for another co-product.

We are also proud of the continued expansion of consumer access to E15, allowing drivers nationwide access to affordable, American-made biofuel. This growth reflects the hard work and collaboration across the POET team and directly supports our mission to replace fossil fuels with cleaner, homegrown alternatives.

Lastly, we are proud of the impact made on our many home communities through POET’s Community Grant Program. In 2024, POET donated over $629,000 in grants to various causes and organizations selected by POET team members in Sioux Falls and across our footprint.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your business?

The agricultural economy is entering a very difficult time. Ever-increasing grain yields, coupled with stagnant demand, have caused oversupply and low commodity prices. We need Washington to grant year-round E15 to increase grain demand. Expanding the bioethanol industry to meet demand from E15 will be a critical component of improving profitability on the farm and reversing this oncoming ag crisis.

CO2 sequestration will play a significant role in the expansion of the industry. The inability of South Dakota plants to access a pipeline to sequester CO2 will make it difficult for those in our state to expand compared to those in states that have access to CO2 sequestration.

How would you describe the culture of your business in three words?

Vision. Innovation. Purpose.

Why does your business choose to invest in Forward Sioux Falls?

Giving back to the communities we call home is a core part of POET’s mission. We believe in building stronger communities. Forward Sioux Falls fuels growth, innovation and economic opportunity for the entire region — goals that we’re proud to support.

What specific advantages or values have you found to partnering with Forward Sioux Falls and its programs?

The ability to collaborate with local leaders, support workforce development and help shape the future of Sioux Falls makes this partnership truly valuable. Through its programs, we can strengthen the regional business climate and reinforce our shared vision for economic development. The initiatives led by Forward Sioux Falls align closely with POET’s mission to invest in people, support our communities and drive innovative solutions. We share a goal of ensuring that Sioux Falls remains a thriving hub for growth and industry.

What are your expectations for your business in the year ahead?

Many opportunities are on the horizon for POET. The biofuture we envision solves many of our world’s greatest challenges. As we work to move away from fossil-based energy and products, POET will continue to turn innovation into opportunity, finding ways to advance agriculture and improve lives in the U.S. and around the globe by harnessing the power of the sun, the soil and the seed.

An immersive experience for contractors and DIYers is waiting with a new showroom and lumberyard for Paradigm Lumber.

It opened late last year at 3335 N. Lewis Ave., supporting the needs of residential and commercial projects.

“Access to quality building materials is key to supporting area growth,” said Bob Mundt, president and CEO of the Sioux Falls Development Foundation. “Paradigm Lumber has an impressive new showroom that will appeal to anyone considering a building project.”

Here’s a closer look at the business, courtesy of general manager Doran Horsely.

Business name: Paradigm Lumber LLC

Year founded: We began operations in 2020 due to material procurement issues caused by COVID-19 — knowing what we were going through was not isolated to just us. We transitioned to a retail yard in late 2022 to service the Sioux Falls metro area.

Total employees in the Sioux Falls area: 12

CEO/lead executive in Sioux Falls: Rob Broin, co-owner and president

How would you describe your organization to someone not familiar with it?

We are the only locally owned, full-service lumberyard in Sioux Falls. We can help with all your building needs and have knowledgeable staff to guide you through the process.

From drafting services to get your project started to lumber, sidings, shingles, windows, doors, cabinets, several delivery options to accommodate your needs and so much more. We service a 100-mile radius around Sioux Falls.

What are the top three reasons you continue to locate in the Sioux Falls area?

We have business roots in the city and a positive reputation in the market and sought to build on that. This is a very fast-paced, growing market. We enjoy strong local support and see the potential to continue to expand here.

What are you most proud of within your business in the past year?

Paradigm Lumber was started by builders with a service-first mentality. Our new location features a beautiful, interactive showroom that showcases products in a full-scale application — not just small samples to take home.

Customers who walk in say it’s an amazing showroom, and they can’t believe how much product we can showcase in such an area.

We have two full kitchens with appliances and a mini house showcasing 22 different products in a life-size format. It is very impressive!

We are constantly adding new lines of products to better serve our customers.

We recently added Valspar paint and have various options for interior and exterior lines, as well as stains. We can mix or match any color.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing your business?

Interest rates and product costs have been challenges for the building industry. We’ve seen good availability of product, but if we see a sizable drop in rates, that could become an issue.

How would you describe the culture of your business in three words?

Helpful, determined, service-oriented.

Why does your business choose to invest in Forward Sioux Falls?

We have common ownership with RMB Associates, which has partnered with Forward Sioux Falls for almost 15 years and has continued to do so over the years because of the forward-thinking leadership that has often been involved, and their commitment and dedication to investing in the future of the Sioux Falls region. Being in development, we also have a vested interest in ensuring the community continues to grow, that we attract and retain talented people to live and work in the area and that we have strong advocates for the business community. We share a similar vision to Forward Sioux Falls in that we are all stronger working collaboratively to grow the overall pie.

What specific advantages or values have you found to partnering with Forward Sioux Falls and its programs?

We appreciate the partnership and look to Forward Sioux Falls to help be another advocate within the business community. It is also helpful to be able to provide funding to one joint venture who can then pool those resources to tackle the most important issue facing the community instead of each business attempting to tackle it on their own. This frees up valuable time and resources that we can use to focus on providing products and services to the community.

What are your expectations for your business in the year ahead?

We’re excited to continue to help our friends and neighbors make their dreams a reality.

Forward Sioux Falls is a joint venture between the Greater Sioux Falls Chamber of Commerce and the Sioux Falls Development Foundation and is widely respected as the premier economic driver for the Sioux Falls region. To learn more and connect, click here.