FUEL THE GROWTH ANNOUNCES DATES FOR FOURTH YEAR AT BHSU-RC

The economic development course "Fuel the Growth - 2024: Advancing Economic Development in Communities" is back at Black Hills State University-Rapid City for its fourth year.

Economic development professionals and board members, Chamber of Commerce staff, community leaders and elected officials are invited to register for the Fuel the Growth - 2024 course that will be held Oct. 7-10. Fuel the Growth - 2024 is hosted by Black Hills State University (BHSU) and the Rushmore Region Economic Development Alliance. Sponsors include Economic Development Professional Association, the South Dakota Governor's Office of Economic Development, Black Hills Energy, West River Foundation, and Elevate Rapid City.

"The IEDC-certified Fuel the Growth course offers Economic Development professionals the chance to enhance their skills and expand their knowledge of economic development, while also fostering valuable connections across South Dakota and the surrounding region," said Andrew G. Buks, instructor of management at BHSU.

This year, the annual economic development training event has been expanded to three and a half days and has received accreditation by the International Economic Development Council. Participants of Fuel the Growth will now fulfill one of the prerequisites for taking the exams for the Certified Economic Developer designation.

Led by economic development experts, Fuel the Growth utilizes presentations, panel discussions, and case studies to address key topics within business development, organizational development, and community development. In addition to learning from local and regional experts, participants will have an opportunity to engage with and learn from colleagues and other attendees through networking opportunities.

"Fuel the Growth is a great resource for economic development professionals," said Mike Lauritsen, CEO of Mitchell Area Development Corporation and attendee of Fuel the Growth-2023. "The course offers a comprehensive overview of economic development topics, from business retention and expansion to workforce development and community planning. The insights and connections gained from the expert-led presentations, panel discussions, and networking opportunities have been a part of our advancing initiatives at the Mitchell Area Development Corporation."

Online registration for Fuel the Growth - 2024 is now open at BHSU.edu/FueltheGrowth. The registration fee is $850 per person. Lodging information and other details can be found
at BHSU.edu/FueltheGrowth.