Dakota Business Lending (DBL), a leading provider of small business financing, is proud to announce their expansion into South Dakota. As a long-standing Certified Development Corporation (CDC) and Community Development Financial Institution (CDFI), DBL specializes in long-term, fixed-rate financing for commercial real estate and equipment through the SBA 504 program, along with their flexible Direct Business Loan program designed to help businesses start, grow, and expand.
This growth marks an exciting next chapter for DBL, whose footprint now spans North Dakota, South Dakota, Minnesota, and Montana. With a 43+ year history of building lasting relationships and driving economic growth as the premier small business resource in the region, DBL is focused on delivering tailored financing solutions and hands-on support that extends beyond the 504 program, especially in projects that don’t fit the traditional lending mold.
“Our expansion into South Dakota is rooted in our mission to be a true partner and resource to small business owners,” said Steve Dusek, President & CEO of DBL. “We’ve established a full-time office in Sioux Falls, with full-time staff on the ground and a team that knows, lives in, and understands the communities we serve. That local presence, combined with Direct Business Loan program, allows us to meet the unique needs of business owners…including those that don’t always fit into a traditional lending box.”
Leading this expansion is Jason Gerdes, Business Development and Commercial Loan Officer, who is based full-time in South Dakota and will serve as the primary contact for SBA 504 lending across the state. Gerdes is supported by Ann Peterson (VP / Loan Operations) and Shelby Kraemer (Underwriter), both of whom live in South Dakota and bring strong ties and insight into the market. Emily Schroeder, DBL’s Community Lending Director, will assist the SD team with any projects requiring financing beyond the SBA 504 program, offering tailored, flexible solutions to help fill capital gaps for businesses of all sizes and stages.
“The word “Dakota” means ‘friend’ or ‘ally’, and that meaning is at the heart of everything we do,” added Dusek. “We’re here to be a true partner and to walk alongside South Dakota business owners, lenders, and communities with trusted relationships and a full toolbox of solutions.”
DBL’s SD office is located at 101 S Reid St., Suite #307, Sioux Falls, SD 57103. Business owners and lending partners can reach out directly to Jason Gerdes at [email protected] with any questions. More information can be found at www.dakotabusinesslending.com/south-dakota.
