Wessington Springs, South Dakota hosted the state’s 2023 Energize! Exploring Innovative Rural Communities Conference facilitated by SDSU Extension’s Community Vitality Team. Nearly 120 community leaders from across South Dakota gathered to gain new perspectives and share ideas in revitalizing rural communities.
Energize! aims to re-energize communities with populations smaller than 5,000. Breakout sessions were led by people from rural communities who shared stories of overcoming challenges and finding success. Resource partners serving rural communities provided exhibits and attended sessions.
The Energize! conference brought an estimated $20,222 to the Wessington Springs economy during the two-day event. The economic impact was distributed in a variety of ways; local food vendors catered meals, lodging establishments housed attendees, and attendees shopped in local businesses.

Dacia Mitchell opened Modest Moxie, a clothing boutique, in Wessington Springs, SD after attending the 2023 Energize conference. (Photo courtesy of Dacia Mitchell)
Dacia Mitchell, a Wessington Springs resident, wanted to open her own store but wasn’t sure how. She attended Energize! in May and by August, she opened her boutique. She credits stories and resources shared at Energize! as the final boost she needed to create a business plan and open her store.
Lyssa Bruzelius, Missouri River Tourism, said Energize! is one of the most beneficial conferences she has ever attended. She walked away from the conference feeling energized and excited.
Of those who completed post conference surveys,
• 100% reported that Energize! provided opportunities to build relationships,
• 100% reported increased knowledge of business and community resources,
• 100% reported that Energize! inspired new and creative ways their community can foster economic growth, and
• 100% reported they will make changes based on what they learned at the conference.
Additional Information:
2025 Energize! Conference – May 6-7, 2025 in Platte, South Dakota
SDSU Extension – Community Vitality