Growing South Dakota’s Workforce

Stretch-the-Million (STM) industry partner program connects education directly to employment.

Through Build Dakota, employers invest in tomorrow’s workforce by helping fund a student’s education and creating a direct pathway to a full-time career in South Dakota. It’s a shared investment with long-term returns – for students, businesses and our state.

How It Works

STM Partners agree to fund half of a student’s full-ride scholarship, which includes: tuition, fees, books, and other items required by the program (tools, equipment, laptop); and commit to the Build Dakota Industry Partner Code of Ethics.

Scholars agree to complete a qualifying program; maintain academic, attendance and conduct requirements; and work full-time for the partner in their field for at least three years in South Dakota upon graduation.

Employers may already be connected with an incoming student, or sign up to participate in the interview phase, including a partnership connection fair and access to applicant resumes.

Business Benefits

• Build a pipeline of job-ready talent
• Upskill current employees or sponsor new hires
• Gain a committed employee for at least three years
• Increase visibility through Build Dakota and Lake Area Tech

Student Benefits

• Tuition-free education
• A clear path to employment after graduation
• Opportunities for hands-on experience during their program

Impact on South Dakota

• Helps fill critical workforce gaps
• Keeps skilled talent in-state
• Supports long-term growth for businesses and communities

Timeline

January 1 – March 31, 2027 – Build Dakota Scholarship application opens
January 14, 2027 – Ready, Set, GO! Build Dakota Day & Partnership Fair on campus
Applicant Registration (coming soon)
STM Partner/Company Registration (coming soon)
April 10, 2027 – STM Partners notify LATC about final selections and scholars review contracts
April 24, 2027 – Scholars accept and return signed contract to STM Partner

Become an STM Partner

Industry Partner Toolkit

To learn more about participating, contact the Lake Area Tech Foundation.

Industry Partners

Explore current Build Dakota and Stretch-the-Million partners, along with additional companies interested in future cohorts.

Build Dakota & Stretch-the-Million Partners