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News

ARTICLE

Date ArticleType
1/22/2026 2:29:34 PM Press Release

SD Retailers Introduce NextGen Cohort

The South Dakota Retailers Association is pleased to introduce some of the state’s newest entrepreneurs as members of its inaugural NextGen Business Builders cohort.

Selected to participate in the professional development and networking program are:

  • Lacey Birmingham, I-29 Brick, Tile, and Stone Company
  • Ashley Boone, The Farr House, Pierre
  • Leslie Brueggeman, Brue 605 Coffee, Miller
  • Lisa Converse, Element, Watertown
  • Jeremy Cummings, The Rooster, Rapid City
  • Justin Dorn, Western Vet Services, Kadoka
  • Amanda Dulitz, Day County Printing, Webster
  • Alex Ellis, Madame Peacock’s, Deadwood
  • Ian Escribano, Brunos Aquarium, Huron
  • McKenzie Farmen, Shoe Science, Aberdeen
  • Erika and Travis Hellvig, Hartford Building Center, Hartford
  • Hope Karels, HK Cupcakes & Bakery, Big Stone City
  • Bailey Meyer, Northern Edge Marketing, Webster
  • Shania Rozeboom, Rainy Day Coffee, Beresford
  • JC Rudolph, Dave Hahler Auto, Webster
  • Samantha Wipf, Optimal Performance, Aberdeen
  • Emme Yeske, HealthFix & OnTrack Nutrition
 

The cohort gathered for the first time during the South Dakota Retailers Assoc. Annual Board Meeting and Conference in January. There they had the opportunity to network with assoc. board members, other business leaders, and receive training on artificial intelligence, as well as customer service.

“Our board was so excited to have the cohort join them, and the board was even more excited after meeting the group. The members of this NextGen cohort are impressive and energetic; we’re very fortunate to have them doing business in our state,” said Association Deputy Executive Director Brooke Bohnenkamp.

Amanda Dulitz, NextGen Member and owner of Day County Printing added, “I didn’t know what to expect when I signed up for the Next Gen Business Builders program, but so far, I am extremely glad I did. This program has been great for helping me see I’m not alone in that ‘figuring it out’ stage, through meeting others who are also in that stage of the game. I've gained tools and knowledge I could take back to my business and implement immediately.”

NextGen Business Builders is a 13-month program for individuals who have owned their business for five years or less or are on an ownership track. Through in-person and virtual sessions, participants will expand their knowledge in marketing, customer service, and other important skills, while networking with other business owners from across the state.

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