Our Story
More than 20 years ago, the vision for a university-related research park was born from the collaborative efforts of Governor George S. Mickelson, Sioux Falls business leaders, and the University of South Dakota. In 2000, the Forward Sioux Falls Technology Committee reignited this vision, engaging over 200 leaders from education, community, and business sectors to enhance the region's capacity for technology-based enterprises.
This collaborative planning led to a 2001 feasibility study by Hammer Siler George Associates, which recommended the establishment of a business incubator and research park. In 2006, a generous gift from the Great Plains Education Foundation enabled the acquisition of 252 acres for the University Center Sioux Falls, paving the way for future innovation.
In 2009, the South Dakota legislature authorized the creation of an 80-acre research park at the University Center. By 2011, national experts from Virginia Tech, Purdue University, and Iowa State University endorsed the project, leading to the formation of the University of South Dakota Research Park corporation in 2012.