Build Dakota Awards 618 Scholarships for 2026-2027

Governor Larry Rhoden announced on Tuesday that 618 students have been awarded Build Dakota Scholarships for the 2026-2027 academic year. This marks the twelfth cohort of recipients since the program's inception over a decade ago.

The scholars, designated as Cohort 12, will attend one of South Dakota's four technical colleges. They are preparing for careers in high-demand workforce fields. In exchange for the full-ride scholarship, each recipient must commit to living and working in South Dakota within their field of study for three years after graduation.

Program Impact and History

Governor Rhoden framed the awards as an investment in the state's future. He stated that these 618 scholars represent the future of South Dakota, and that investing in students creates opportunity for them to succeed, with South Dakota growing right alongside them.

The announcement also served to honor the program's primary benefactor, T. Denny Sanford. His initial $25 million investment in 2015 was matched by the state, launching Build Dakota. Rhoden expressed gratitude for Sanford's leadership and foresight. More than a decade later, the governor stated this year's scholars represent the next chapter of that legacy.

Since it began, the program has awarded 5,196 scholarships statewide according to the governor's office. A 2025 economic impact study by the Dakota Institute estimated the program generated $235 million in economic output over its first decade. The study calculated a return of $4.33 for every dollar invested.

Industry Partnerships and Vision

Dana Dykhouse, chairman of the Build Dakota Scholarship Board, highlighted the program's expanded reach. Dykhouse, who is also chairman and CEO of First PREMIER Bank, connected the current success to Sanford's original vision, noting that Denny always believed in people and in South Dakota.

He noted the program now extends beyond pure scholarship funding, stating that today, Build Dakota is launching careers, connecting students with employers, and creating opportunities that can change families for generations. Industry partners now co-invest alongside Build Dakota in 90 percent of the scholars.

Geographic Reach of Recipients

The 618 scholarship winners for the coming academic year come from more than 160 different home communities across South Dakota. This distribution demonstrates the program's reach into nearly every corner of the state. The full list of recipients is available online.

The program continues to channel students into technical education paths aimed at filling critical state workforce needs. The requirement for graduates to work in South Dakota ensures the investment directly benefits local industries.