PIERRE, S.D – The South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF), which has offices in Rapid City and across the state, has been named the fastest-growing community foundation in the nation among its peers. The recognition was part of the newly released 2023 Census of Community Foundations by the Community Foundation Research and Training Institute (CFRTI).
The census analyzed 900 community foundations across the United States as of year-end 2023. Among the 148 foundations managing assets over $100 million, SDCF ranked first for the fastest growth from 2018 to 2023.
In terms of total assets, SDCF ranked 37th nationwide among all 900 community foundations.
Stephanie Judson, SDCF President and CEO, said the recognition “reflects the incredible generosity of South Dakotans and the trust they place in SDCF to strengthen our communities”. She added that the report demonstrates the “collective power” of the commitment to help people invest in the future of the state.
SDCF Chair Scott Jones noted that while the milestone is being celebrated, the organization’s focus remains on “creating opportunity-ensuring every gift entrusted to SDCF continues to make a difference for generations to come”.
The CFRTI census highlights SDCF’s exceptional progress and its growing impact across communities, students, and nonprofits in South Dakota, including the Black Hills region.
Established in 1987, SDCF is a public nonprofit organization. The foundation, with offices in Rapid City, Pierre, Sioux Falls, Aberdeen, and Mitchell, administers 1,300 funds that benefit hundreds of charitable organizations annually. In 2024, SDCF distributed nearly $40 million in grants across the state.
