“If you don’t know where you’re going, you’ll never get there”
- October 1, 2026
By: Clark Meyer, 2026 Sioux Falls Development Foundation Board Chair
Sioux Falls and the Development Foundation have gone through some transformative changes over the past five years, and even more changes and challenges are on the horizon. Recognizing that, the Board of Directors has enlisted the help of Maximizing Excellence to assist us with the next 3–5-year strategic plan for the Sioux Falls Development Foundation.
“With the change in leadership at City Hall and the beginning of the implementation of Forward Sioux Falls IX, the Board felt it was the perfect time to reflect on the successes of the past and plan for the challenges of tomorrow,” said Clark Meyer, 2026 Chair of the Board. “The Foundation has taken on more responsibilities including the changes in how we approach talent and workforce development, changes in our targeted industries, land development, housing, and the Sanford District redevelopment. We need to make sure we set ourselves up for success.”
“This is a window to shape the Foundation’s direction and develop a framework for evaluating and taking on issues and projects that encompass more than just Forward Sioux Falls goals,” said Randy Knecht, incoming Board Chair for the Foundation. “This establishes a board-driven direction and defines what is needed for a staff-driven execution.”
After gathering input from the Board of Directors, partner focus groups, and key informant interviews, Maximizing Excellence facilitated two half-day strategic planning sessions with the full Board and staff. Discussion topics included strategic/long-term investment of Foundation resources, a philosophy and approach to new land acquisition, improved workforce development initiatives, strategic recruitment, economic tools and political navigation, effective marketing, and cooperation in the region.
“This process is incredibly helpful in guiding the direction of the Development Foundation in the next few years,” according to Bob Mundt, President/CEO of the Foundation. “We have an amazing team here at the Foundation that will do everything possible to make sure this plan is carried out, and that we meet or exceed the goals and objectives being set for us. We appreciate all the feedback we received from our partners and stakeholders and look forward to leading this effort.”