Tech scene in South Dakota?

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danmhall's picture
Posted by danmhall on May 18, 2012 at 9:36pm

Hi All, I am the CEO / Founder of a Seattle based startup for gun enthusiasts. I have been out to South Dakota about a dozen times now raising funds and looking to create an office either in the Sioux Falls area or out in the Black Hills. Everyone I've met has been very friendly but I am about curious about the startup / tech scene. I've been talking with Rich from the SD Tech Business Center and have been to an IN afterhours event which was good. I've seen some events like SD Geeks and other get togethers in this group. Are there regular get togethers for techies / startupers in SD and if so what are your favorite events?

Thanks,
Dan

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Comments

Re: Tech scene in South Dakota?

Posted by peggy.kapusta on May 18, 2012 at 10:27pm
peggy.kapusta's picture

Hi Dan,
Besides the SD Geeks group (www.linkedin.com/groups?gid=2478225), I'm a fan of the Sioux Falls Content Strategy Group speakers and discussion. Visit www.meetup.com/sfsd-content for details on the upcoming event on May 24. My vote is for your office to be based in Sioux Falls! But it's not for wimps, so be aware the weather can be brutal. It keeps out the riffraff, so there is an upside. Best wishes on your decision, and we hope to see you,
Peggy

RE:

Posted by danmhall on May 21, 2012 at 7:08pm
danmhall's picture

Thanks, Peggy. Fortunately, I went to school in Indiana so I have some vague recollection of the cold. We are leaning towards Sioux Falls if South Dakota wins out. I think finding talent will be easiest there plus the city seems to have done a good job with their downtown renovation. Lots of yummy places to eat, drink, and hang out.

South Dakota's the obvious choice

Posted by peggy.kapusta on May 21, 2012 at 7:36pm
peggy.kapusta's picture

Be sure to look at the "no personal income tax (PIT)" states when making your selection. This April 2012 Forbes article makes a pretty compelling case.

www.forbes.com/sites/jamesglassman/2012/04/09/look-to-the-states-for-tax...

"The average no-PIT state grew 30% faster than the average state." With no personal income tax, no corporate income tax, no business inventory tax and no state tax on personal property, South Dakota is a good bet. Plus, we do have an incredible quality of life, as you mentioned.

Thanks Peggy!

Posted by BryanSD on May 22, 2012 at 2:12am
BryanSD's picture

Wow believe it or not, I didn't know there was a Content Strategy Group Meetup. I'm going to have to take a look at their schedule.

-Bryan

Bryan Ruby
socPub

Sioux Falls Content Strategy Group Meetup

Posted by peggy.kapusta on May 22, 2012 at 1:25pm
peggy.kapusta's picture

Definitely, Bryan,
I've only attended a couple, but Corey Vilhauer (corey@blendinteractive.com) can answer any questions you have on the group. Blend Interactive serves as the host for these meetings, which always have a great topic.