News!!

SEMDC—20 years old and going strong!

In 1986, in what was a visionary step to assist small businesses and small communities, the Southeastern Minnesota Development Corporation was formed. Today, 20 years later, the Southeastern Minnesota Development Corporation continues to assist small businesses and small communities with their varied needs. The success of SEMDC is credited to the staff that moves projects forward, the Board of Directors that provide the vision to shape our future, the cities and counties that show the confidence in our organization through our contracts and the contributions of many businesses and organizations throughout Minnesota. Without all of these facets, SEMDC would not be where it is today. On behalf of the SEMDC Board of Directors and staff, we say a very grateful and humble THANK YOU!

It is hard to estimate the economic impact that SEMDC has had in the region over these past twenty years. The facilitation of authoring grants for communities and the facilitation of economic and community development projects in our member communities can easily be seen. The spin-off effect of these projects is not nearly quite as clear but is very significant in its own right. Currently, through the Community Support Program, SEMDC is contracted with 20 cities and counties throughout our region to provide community and economic development support staff services. This service provides about 75% of our annual budget.

SEMDC is also a satellite office of the Small Business Development Center. Most of our staff are small business counselors that assist small businesses one-on-one with their varied needs such as marketing, business planning, financial packaging, basic accounting and the like. If the needs of the business extend beyond our expertise, we do contract with outside consultants to provide the service. This service is a no-cost benefit to businesses. This service is also utilized by lending institutions in the region for their business customers. It is a definite advantage to businesses to utilize this expertise.

We also continue to work with the Small Cities Development Block Grant program by authoring grant applications and once awarded, providing the administration for successful completion of the project.

SEMDC also accepts contributions from numerous businesses and organizations throughout the area to assist in the programs that we are involved in. As businesses, organizations and communities realize the benefit of SEMDC to our region, these contributions will continue to increase. SEMDC currently has nine dedicated, professional staff that provide the wide array of services available. Combined, the staff has well over 100 years of professional development experience.

Through the vision of our Board of Directors, SEMDC will remain dedicated to providing opportunities to make our region of the country a great place to live, work, recreate and do business. Your confidence in our organization is greatly appreciated!

SEMDC recognized by SMIF with grant award

The Southeastern Minnesota Development Corporation was one of 20 special grant recipients recognized by the Southern Minnesota Initiative Foundation (SMIF).

The Foundation awarded 20 grants of $5,000 each to organizations, communities and businesses throughout the 20 counties to commemorate their 20th anniversary.

“We chose each of the special ’20 in 20’ grant award recipients based on their past and current commitment to community and economic development here in southern Minnesota,” said Dan Bonneur, Board Chair, SMIF.  “We are pleased to recognize each one for the    positive impact their efforts are making within our communities and businesses.”

From the SMIF press release - Southeastern Minnesota Development Corporation (SEMDC) has been around for 20 years, and as often happens, it can be taken for granted.  However, many communities would find themselves hard pressed to grow local businesses without its avid support and expertise.

The future is bright for SEMDC, according to Ron Zeigler, CEO/President. “Our uniquely structured organization enables us to assist counties and communities with professional economic development personnel in a cost-effective manner. We appreciate the assistance and partnership from SMIF, as well as this latest grant award.”