Small Business Growth in South Dakota with Ryan Budmayr
In this episode of Tips for Change, host Tiffany Mutchler sat down with Ryan Budmayr, the new President and CEO of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce and Industry. Together, they explored the future of South Dakota’s business landscape, the chamber's evolving role, and how small businesses can thrive through connection, advocacy, and opportunity.
A Career Built on Partnerships
Ryan’s path to the Chamber weaves together experiences in economic development, state government, and private-sector communications. From working on International Trade Missions to serving at Lawrence & Schiller, he’s seen firsthand how public and private sectors can join forces to fuel growth.
For Ryan, leadership is about building relationships and empowering businesses to lead confidently. He believes the business community often sparks the most meaningful change, with the government stepping in as a partner to strengthen those efforts.
Shifting From Jobs to Opportunity
When Ryan first entered the field, economic development was primarily about creating as many jobs as possible. Today, the conversation has shifted. It's more about quality than quantity. South Dakota wants to attract employers who bring jobs, new ideas, and long-term growth to local communities.
This evolution means looking at Sioux Falls and Rapid City and rural towns across the state. By listening to businesses in all sectors and regions, the Chamber can better support policies for sustainable growth.
Advocacy and Engagement at the Core
Looking ahead, Ryan is focused on two key priorities for the Chamber:
Advocacy for a strong, pro-business environment at both the state and local levels.
Engagement with businesses of all sizes and industries to ensure their voices shape the Chamber’s work.
Ryan sees chances for South Dakota businesses to lead in energy, agriculture, and new technologies like AI. Meaningful progress depends on making sure every voice has a place at the table. This includes voices from rural and urban areas, big and small.
Building on a Strong Legacy
Ryan succeeds David Owen, who led the Chamber for nearly 30 years. While David brought unmatched policy expertise, Ryan is focused on expanding engagement, growing membership, and amplifying the Chamber’s message across the state.
Ryan wants to use his marketing skills to help businesses find important information and resources. This includes navigating tax policy, understanding workforce needs, and preparing for future economic trends.
Why This Matters for Small Businesses
Many of the Chamber’s priorities relate to the daily challenges small businesses face. These include access to capital, workforce readiness, and understanding state policy. Organizations like Voyage and other local lenders are critical in helping small businesses succeed by providing financial support and education.
Ryan emphasized the importance of collaboration with chambers, financial institutions, and local communities, like Voyage's. This teamwork helps entrepreneurs access the tools they need and supports them in starting and succeeding in their businesses.
Episode Mentions
About Ryan Budmayr
Ryan Budmayr is the President and CEO of the South Dakota Chamber of Commerce & Industry. A native of Belle Fourche, his career includes state government, economic development, and communications roles. He is committed to fostering partnerships that help South Dakota businesses and communities thrive.
