Wall to Host 2026 SDSU Energize Conference. May 6-7

Wall has been selected to host this year’s SDSU Energize! Conference, bringing more than 150 rural leaders from across South Dakota to our community. The conference focuses on helping rural towns thrive by learning directly from one another and showcasing what makes each host community unique.

What sets the Energize! Conference apart is its hands-on, community-centered approach. Breakout sessions are held inside local businesses rather than traditional conference rooms, giving participants a firsthand look at what makes a community “tick.” This model not only highlights local success stories but also brings conference attendees directly into Wall’s shops, restaurants, and gathering spaces.

To encourage local spending, each conference participant receives $10 in Wall Bucks to use at participating businesses. With attendees eating, staying, and shopping locally, the conference is expected to generate a significant economic boost. The most recent Energize! Conference, held in Platte, resulted in an estimated $56,916 in economic impact—and with Wall’s wide variety of shops and experiences, we expect to exceed that figure.

Local business owners are invited to get involved by hosting a breakout session in their business. This is a unique opportunity to share your story, gain exposure, and welcome visitors into your space. Businesses may also participate as sponsors, with sponsorship levels offering logo placement in the conference program, signage, and at the registration table. Sponsorships also include one to four conference tickets, depending on the level selected, making it a great way to promote your business.

As the host community, Wall will also welcome attendees with a special evening event—a Badlands Dark Skies experience. Participants will travel into Badlands National Park to learn about the park’s new Dark Sky designation and enjoy a presentation from National Park Service staff.

We are excited to welcome Energize! to Wall and showcase everything our community has to offer. Businesses interested in hosting a session or learning more about sponsorship opportunities are encouraged to contact Rochan Burrell at the Wall Economic Development Office or at 605-279-2658

We encourage Local community to attend the event for it is filled with  great information.
To attend the event please register here.