Summit

8:00 - 8:15 AM
Welcome: JONI EKSTRUM, South Dakota Biotech            
President’s Address: MEL USTAD, Ph.D.
Presenting Sponsor Welcome SDSU Research Park  
8:15 - 9:15 AM
SD Trade Mission: Connecting SD Companies with East Asia  
MODERATOR: LUKE LINDBERG, South Dakota Trade
JOE BECK, Viaflex, JOE CASSADY, Ph.D., South Dakota State University, DENNIS HARSTAD, HOUDEK
9:15 - 10:15 AM    
Unlocking Capital: Exploring Funding Pathways
MODERATOR: SCOTT MARTY, Ph.D., Ballard Spahr
BLAINE CRISSMAN, Badlands Capital, KELLY L. HERRMANN, Ballard Spahr, ALAN YOUNG, Ph.D., Medgene
10:15 - 10:45 AM networking break        
10:45 – 11:30 AM    
Sowing Innovation: Ag and Environmental Biotechnology  
MODERATOR: MARK LUECKE, South Dakota Innovation Partners
ROB PATTERSON, CBS Bio Platforms, DOUG BERVEN, POET, MARK STOWERS, Ph.D., South Dakota First Capital
1:30 - 11:45 AM break        
11:45 - 2:00 PM    
Luncheon
Sponsor Update DANIEL SCHOLL, Ph,D., South Dakota State University
Fireside Chat U.S. Representative DUSTY JOHNSON, South Dakota with TONY VENHUIZEN, South Dakota Representative
Awards LIVE Award and Collaborator Award
Presenting STEM Grants
Presenting Sponsor Ballard Spahr Project BioTech Launchpad
2:00 - 2:15 PM break    
2:15 - 3:00 PM    
Connecting Care: Global Healthcare Partnerships
MODERATOR: WILLIAM HARRIS, Ph.D., Omega Quant
ERIK EHLI, Ph.D., Avera Genetics, ALEXANDRA KROPOTROVA, M.D., SAB Biotherapeutics, JOHNA KERN, Sanford World Clinics
3:00 - 3:45 PM    
Engaging an International Student Workforce
DAN ENGEBRETSON, University of South Dakota, SOPHIE ALCORN, J.D., Alcorn, KASIE HEIDEN, University of South Dakota
3:45 - 4:00 PM
Closing
MARK STOWERS, Ph.D., Vice President, South Dakota Biotech

SOUTH DAKOTA BIOTECH BOARD PRESIDENT

South Dakota Biotech President Mel Ustad will give highlights of the association in the past year and provide an overview of relevant issues and progress at the state and national levels.  

Dr. Melvin Ustad, Director of South Dakota EPSCoR, coordinating South Dakota EPSCoR activities and serving as the Project Director of the National Science Foundation EPSCoR Research Infrastructure Improvement Track 1 project.  The five year $24 million project involves the six regental institutions, three tribal colleges, two private colleges. Dr. Ustad served as the Director of Commercialization, in the Governor’s Office of Economic Development for Governor Rounds and Daugaard. Dr. Ustad has extensive experience leading collaborative interdisciplinary public / private research and economic development projects. Dr. Ustad previously served as Acting and Interim Vice President for Research at the University of South Dakota, Director of the South Dakota SBIR Center, and worked for Senator Larry Pressler in Washington, DC. He has also served or is currently serving on the Board of Directors of numerous national and state technology entrepreneurship organizations. Dr. Ustad has been an active researcher throughout his career, serving as principal investigator on numerous research and outreach projects supported by various federal agencies and private foundations.

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Dusty Johnson brings an energetic and optimistic style to Washington as South Dakota’s lone voice in the U.S. House of Representatives. A recognized leader in issues related to rural America, agriculture, and welfare reform, he serves on the Agriculture Committee and as Chairman of the Commodity Markets, Digital Assets, and Rural Development Subcommittee. As a member of the Transportation & Infrastructure Committee, Dusty has been focused on finding solutions to the supply chain crisis through his Ocean Shipping Reform Act which passed the House in 2021. Appointed to the Select Committee on China, Dusty addresses the 360-degree threat posed by China, especially their ownership of American ag land and ag businesses and control over tech. Prior to being elected to Congress, he served as chief of staff to the Governor and as vice president of an engineering firm specializing in rural telecommunications. Dusty lives in Mitchell with his wife and three sons.

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Representative Tony Venhuizen, District: 13 Counties: Lincoln, Minnehaha - 2024

Tonnis H. Venhuizen is an Armour native. He is a graduate of South Dakota State University, where he earned his B.S. in history and political science, and the University of South Dakota School of Law, where he was an editor of the South Dakota Law Review. In 2021, Governor Kristi Noem appointed Venhuizen to the South Dakota Board of Regents; he had previously been appointed to the Board by Governor Mike Rounds, serving from 2003-08.

Venhuizen managed the successful gubernatorial campaign of Dennis Daugaard in 2010. He worked in the governor’s office throughout the Daugaard administration, including as chief of staff from 2014-19. Venhuizen stayed on in the administration of Governor Noem as a senior advisor in 2019, and then returned as chief of staff in 2020-21. Prior to that, Venhuizen worked on Mike Rounds’ successful gubernatorial campaigns in 2002 and 2006.  Venhuizen also served with the Janklow-Rounds gubernatorial transition in 2002, the Rounds-Daugaard transition in 2010, and the Daugaard-Noem transition in 2018.

Venhuizen serves on the board of directors of the Trail of Governors Foundation, which is erecting life-size bronze statues of every former South Dakota governor throughout the capital city of Pierre. He has encouraged the placement of South Dakota State Historical Society markers to commemorate the lives of former governors, leading to the placement of ten new markers.  

In 2012, Venhuizen led the effort to pass legislation, codified at SDCL § 1-27-1.19 to 1-27-1.22, that preserves the papers of former governors and ensures that all papers eventually become available for historical research. In 2018, he advocated for the designation of Peter Norbeck’s birthday, August 27, as a state working holiday.  enhuizen coordinated the commissioning of a bust of George S. Mickelson, which was placed in the lobby of the State House of Representatives to commemorate the 25th anniversary of Mickelson’s death. While in the governor’s office, Venhuizen was particularly honored to help coordinate the State Capitol memorial services for former governors William J. Janklow and Walter Dale Miller.

Luke Lindberg is the President & CEO of South Dakota Trade, a 501c(6) public-private-partnership that navigates international trade for South Dakota.

Previously, Mr. Lindberg served as the Chief of Staff and Chief Strategy Officer at the Export-Import Bank of the United States. As the agency’s second-highest ranking official, he was responsible for managing the day-to-day operations of EXIM and advancing strategic initiatives such as the program on “China and Transformational Exports”, opening new markets for American Liquified Natural Gas, securing America’s supply of Critical Minerals & Rare Earths, and protecting allies in the race to deploy 5G globally. He also led EXIM’s involvement in the execution of the ground-breaking Abraham Accords. Mr. Lindberg earned the Distinguished Service Award, which recognizes distinctive accomplishment and leadership that significantly benefit EXIM and the nation.

Today, Mr. Lindberg Serves on the board of directors of the National Association of District Export Councils, and the Children’s Home Society. He holds advisory roles with the U.S. Global Leadership Coalition, the Krach Institute for Tech Diplomacy at Purdue University, and is a member of the Council on Foreign Relations. Additionally, Mr. Lindberg is a Senior Fellow at the America First Policy Institute and has been featured by Fox News, The Washington Times, The Hill, The Daily Caller, The Federalist, and The Farm Journal, for his ‘Thought Leadership’ on international affairs and agriculture policy. Mr. Lindberg earned a Master of Business Administration, a Master of Public Policy, and a Bachelor of Arts in Government & Politics, all from the University of Maryland.

ABOUT SOUTH DAKOTA TRADE
South Dakota Trade navigates international trade for South Dakota. The association — a 501c(6) public-private partnership — administers South Dakota’s STEP Grant program, conducts export education, facilitates trade missions, and offers free and confidential consulting services to South Dakotan companies.

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Joe Beck, Executive Director of Corporate Development, Viaflex
 

Joe Beck has a diverse work experience in various roles and positions. Joe started their career as a Facilities Engineering Technician at the U.S. Geological Survey in 2011. Joe then moved on to Raven Industries where they worked as a Facilities and Corporate Services employee and later as a Plant Engineer. In 2015, Joe joined Raven Aerostar as a Program Manager and was later promoted to the position of Plant Manager. Joe then transitioned to Raven Engineered Films in 2019, serving as a Business Director. Currently, Joe is working as the Executive Director of Corporate Development at Viaflex since April 2022.

Joe Beck earned a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in Mechanical Engineering from South Dakota State University in the years 2011 to 2014. Joe then pursued a Master of Business Administration (M.B.A.) with a focus on Business Administration, Management, and Operations at UNC Kenan-Flagler Business School from 2015 to 2017. Joe also pursued additional certifications in Mergers and Acquisitions from Columbia Business School. Joe holds the certification as an Engineer in Training from the South Dakota Board of Regents.

ABOUT VIAFLEX
Dedicated to protecting the Earth while promoting industry.

We have been supplying high-quality flexible films, covers and lining to major markets in the US and throughout the world. While our products are sold internationally, our supply chain is not. We are a made-in-America outfit dedicated to providing our clients with custom-made solutions and services for even the most challenging environmental projects.

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Dennis Harstad, VP of Operations/General Manager, Houdek


ABOUT HOUDEK
Like the soil from which we're named, we are a diverse mixture, comprised of scientists, technicians, innovators, and stewards putting our life's work into bringing fermentation technology to the world's food needs.

We provide the aquaculture, pet nutrition, and human health markets with sustainable, traceable, and highly valuable food ingredients... and if you have three minutes, you can experience our work via the most important aspect of our work - our people.

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Dr. Joseph P. Cassady is the South Dakota Corn Endowed Dean of the SDSU College of Agriculture, Food and Environmental Sciences. He was SDSU Animal Science Department Head from 2013 until being appointed Dean in 2022, and concurrently Interim Dairy and Food Science Department Head from 2020 to 2022. He spent 12 years on the North Carolina State University faculty. Dr. Cassady has maintained a key focus on increasing research productivity and doubled graduate student enrollment in the Dept. of Animal Science. He provides oversight of operations and budgets for six livestock units, a meat teaching/research laboratory, a feed mill and nutrition, physiology and genetics research laboratories. He also provided strategic direction for the SDSU Rodeo Team, and livestock, meats, & wool judging teams. Dr. Cassady’s leadership and rapport with stakeholders helped raise over $14 million, to complete both a $7.4 million Swine Education and Research Facility and $6 million Cow-Calf Education and Research Facility.

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Scott D. Marty, Ph.D., an Intellectual Property Partner in Ballard Spahr’s Atlanta office.

Scott D. Marty is Co-Leader of the firm's Life Sciences Industry Group, Leader of the Patent Group's biotechnology team, and a member of the pharmaceutical team. His practice focuses on various aspects of biotechnology patent prosecution, diligence and patent litigation, including Post-Grant Proceedings before the Patent Trial and Appeal Board.

Scott’s clients run the gamut from multinational Fortune 500 companies to emerging growth start-ups. Regardless of size, clients benefit from his experience in navigating all areas of drug discovery through development, including product launch. In the start-up space, he provides strategic patent counseling to life sciences companies, guiding them through every stage of a product's life cycle.

Scott has experience in all aspects of domestic and international patent prosecution, client counseling, pre-litigation assessments and opinions regarding patentability, and litigation relating to the biotechnical, life science, and pharmaceutical fields. He also has experience working with clients in reviewing, analyzing, and evaluating intellectual property-based issues as well as performing and providing detailed financial analysis to provide a well-rounded picture of opportunities for evaluating the overall portfolio.

Scott's clients benefit from his consultative approach, which focuses on educating clients on various aspects of patent law. He regularly teaches patent law classes and presents on current topics and trends in patent law to both local and national audiences.

Representative technologies include DNA and protein therapeutics, biomarkers, genetic engineering, transgenic animals, gene therapy, molecular and cellular biological screening assays, vaccines, peptide/protein therapy and diagnostics, cloning fermentation, methods of nucleic acid amplification, and various biotechnical research tools. Scott also prepares noninfringement, invalidity, and freedom-to-operate opinions, IP due diligence for strategic transactions, and negotiates and drafts license agreements for a variety of clients.

ABOUT BALLARD SPAHR
Ballard Goes Beyond

We provide strategic legal services and business solutions of the highest quality, delivered with uncommon efficiency.

With more than 600 lawyers in 15 U.S. offices, we bring industry knowledge augmented by tenacity, initiative, and a drive for results—creating an outsized advantage for clients in litigation, transactions, and regulatory compliance.

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Blaine Crissman, Partner, Badlands Capital

Blaine Crissman has more than 30 years of experience financing and investing in middle-market companies. Mr. Crissman has been involved in founding several private capital funds.
 

Mr. Crissman is the Managing Partner of South Dakota Equity Partners (“SDEP”). SDEP evaluated equity investments in private companies in South Dakota. While leading SDEP, Mr. Crissman originated and led the investments in eight companies. Mr. Crissman serves on the board of five of the portfolio companies. SDEP’s portfolio includes investments in biotechnology, biopharmaceutical manufacturing, medical device, solar development and contracting, and software companies.
 
Mr. Crissman also founded Badlands Equity Fund (“Badlands”). Badlands evaluates equity investments in private companies in the Midwest. While leading Badlands, Mr. Crissman has been involved with and serves on the boards of companies in healthcare, software, clinical trials, and medical devices.
 
Prior to founding Badlands, Mr. Crissman was a principal with Bank of America Capital Investors, a mezzanine debt and equity investing partnership funded by Bank of America. He served on the investment committee of Bank of America Capital Investors. Prior to joining Bank of America Capital Investors, he worked in BancAmerica Securities High Yield Group where he was involved in sourcing and underwriting public subordinated debt offerings.
 
Mr. Crissman is the former President of the Midwest Regional Association of SBICs and is a founding member of the Private Equity Advisory Board at the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University. Mr. Crissman received an MBA from the Fuqua School of Business at Duke University and a BA in Economics and Finance from Augustana University.

ABOUT BADLANDS CAPITAL
We are a Midwest Private Equity firm making growth equity and mature buyout investments. Discover our investment approach and portfolio of exceptional companies.

Our objective is to bring value to companies with potential in markets that are often overlooked or underserved.

At Badlands Capital, we believe in advancing growth in our portfolio companies while maintaining the qualities that made them great in the first place. We take a long-term approach to investing and work closely with management teams to create value and drive success.

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• Represented Ross Aviation, a premier owner and operator of full-service fixed-base operations (FBOs), in its recent acquisition of Stuart Jet Center in Stuart, Florida.
• Represented a software-as-a-service provider (SaaS) that was acquired as a purchase of 100% of the stock of the SaaS company by a private equity fund.
• Represented Mellott Company, a family-owned aggregates business, in its sale to MFG Partners.

• Judicial Clerkships
  • Hon. Karen E. Schreier, U.S. District Court for the District of South Dakota, 2016-2018
• Recognition & Accomplishments
  • North Star Lawyer, Minnesota State Bar Association, 2020, 2023
• Publications
  • "Filling the Cracks: Why Problem-Solving Courts are Needed to Address Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders in the Criminal Justice System," The Scholar: St. Mary's Law Review on Race and Social Justice, Vol. 18, No. 2, 2016

Alan Young, Ph.D., Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Founder, Medgene Labs

Dr. Young’s career has focused on the application of domestic animal models to biomedical applications. Dr. Young received his BSc and PhD in Immunology from the University of Toronto, focusing on the role of the migratory immune system in defense against disease. Following postdoctoral training in lymphatic physiology, Dr. Young took a position as Scientific Member of the Ruminant Immunology Laboratory at the Basel Institute for Immunology. Following closure of the Institute, Dr. Young accepted a faculty position in the Department of Surgery at Harvard Medical School, prior to moving to his current position at the Department of Veterinary and Biomedical Sciences at South Dakota State University. Dr. Young has served as the lead on academic initiatives designed to promote cross-institutional and academic-industry collaborations, including founding the Multistate Research Committee to deal with BSE in the United States and as a Co-PI for development of a Rift Valley Fever vaccine through the Center of Emerging Zoonoses and Animal Diseases at Kansas State University. His training as an Immunologist focuses much of his work on the response of domestic animals to emerging and zoonotic diseases, and the application of animal models to development of new therapies, diagnostics, and research models for human disease. Since 2004, Dr. Young has been an active participant in translational technology development, authoring and supervising several successful Phase I and Phase II SBIR projects in collaboration with Federal Laboratories and Academic Institutions within the United States and Canada. In 2011, Dr. Young founded VST/Medgene Labs to assist in the translation of early stage technologies to the marketplace and to develop new vaccine and diagnostic tools for human and veterinary medicine. Medgene Labs is a USDA-licensed firm for production of both Autogenous and Prescription-Platform vaccines, with commercial products providing solutions for swine and cattle, with additional products serving the needs of minor species such as deer, rabbits, and bison. In addition to these commercially relevant products, Medgene’s platform is also being applied towards solutions for Foreign Animal Diseases, including Rift Valley Fever, Classical Swine Fever, Nipah Virus, and Highly Pathogenic Avian Influenza.

ABOUT MEDGENE LABS
Medgene is an animal health company focused on providing Prescription Platform vaccines to veterinarians and producers. Medgene serves both livestock and companion-animal practices. Medgene’s Prescription Platform system ensures that all the ingredients that go into our vaccines are animal origin free.

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Mark Luecke, Managing Director and CEO, South Dakota Innovation Partners, LLC

Mark Luecke has a diverse work experience spanning over two decades. Mark started their career as a Senior Consultant at Arthur Andersen in 1996. Mark then worked as a Senior Associate at Northwestern Growth Corporation before joining Expanets as a Vice President in 2000. In 2003, they joined Avaya as a Vice President and later became the President and COO at The Silvercloud Companies in 2005. In the same year, they also worked as a Managing Director at CapitalValue Advisors. In 2009, they founded South Dakota Innovation Partners, LLC and served as the Managing Director and CEO. In 2012, Mark became the CEO of Prairie AquaTech and also served as the CEO of Medgene Labs.

Mark Luecke attended the University of South Dakota from 1992 to 1996.

ABOUT SOUTH DAKOTA INNOVATION PARTNERS, LLC
Founded in 2008, SD Innovation Partners is a venture capital firm based in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The firm seeks to invest in the agriculture technology, food tech, and life sciences sectors.

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A graduate of the University of Manitoba, Mr. Rob Patterson holds degrees in both biology and nutritional biochemistry and has a specific interest and focus on applied swine and poultry nutrition. As the Vice President of Innovation & Commercialization for CBS Bio Platforms, Mr. Patterson is responsible for all aspects of technology commercialization including Research and Development, Regulatory and Quality Systems, Sales & Marketing, and Business Development activities. 

Rob has authored and co-author several papers focused on advancing the application of various feed additive technologies in swine and poultry diets. Additionally, Rob has been invited to speak at scientific and industry conferences around the world. He is also the past chair of the Nutrition Council, which serves as the technical liaison to the Animal Nutrition Association of Canada, the national lobbying group for the Canadian Feed Industry.

ABOUT CBS BIO PLATFORMS
CBS Bio Platforms Inc. is an innovation-driven company committed to advancing feed technology and animal nutrition. With over 40 years of experience, CBS has developed a broad portfolio of natural feed supplements, enzymes, and yeast-based technologies designed to enhance animal performance, improve intestinal tract health, and support efficient disease management operations.

Our global footprint includes facilities in Canada, international markets throughout Asia and South America and now in the United States with our first production facility opening in Volga, SD. With strategic university partnerships and a robust research and development framework, CBS Bio Platforms continues to pioneer solutions that meet the evolving needs of nutritionists, veterinarians, farmers, and commercial producers.

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Doug Berven, Vice President of Corporate Affairs, POET

Doug Berven joined POET in March 2003 and has served the organization in several key roles since then. In his current role as Vice President of Corporate Affairs, Berven promotes the corporate objectives of POET, the importance of agriculture, and the benefits of biofuels domestically and internationally.

Berven currently sits on BIO’s Industrial and Environmental Section Governing Board, the U.S. Grains Council Ethanol Advisory Team, the U.S. Farmers and Ranchers Alliance Executive Committee and Board, South Dakota Agriculture Foundation Board, is a Senior Advisor to Solutions From the Land, is an Emeritus Board Member of the American Council on Renewable Energy, is the Executive Director of the South Dakota Ethanol Producers Association, and serves on several other industry associated work groups, committees and associations. He has also served on several of POET’s plant Boards of Directors. Berven also manages strategic corporate relations for POET, promotes state, national and international policy objectives for the industry, and is a recognized authority on biofuels, renewable energy and agriculture.

Prior to joining POET, Berven held various roles in banking, real estate development and medical business consulting. Berven received his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D., where he currently resides with his wife and two children.

ABOUT POET
Founded in 1987, we have grown from a single, humble bioprocessing facility in Scotland, South Dakota to the world’s largest producer of biofuel and a global leader in sustainable bioproducts. Today we are headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, with 34 bioprocessing facilities across the midwest and nearly 2,400 team members. Our integrated business model combines research and development with expertise in design and construction, technology, operations, public affairs, and marketing.

The same spirit of ingenuity that helped us to pioneer an industry is alive and well today. POET nurtures an unceasing commitment to innovating powerful, practical solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Our world-class team of researchers and engineers works to unleash the regenerative power of agriculture by creating plant-based alternatives to petrochemicals, like bioethanol, distillers grains, corn fermented protein, distillers corn oil, biogenic CO2 and dry ice, purified alcohol, and asphalt rejuvenator. Today, POET holds more than 80 patents worldwide and continues to break new ground in biotechnology, yielding ever-cleaner and more efficient renewable products and energy.

While the size of our business and scope of our vision have evolved, we remain focused on reducing our dependence on fossil-based products, revitalizing global agriculture, and creating a brighter world for generations to come.

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William S. Harris, Ph.D., FAHA – President and CEO, OmegaQuant

Dr. Harris is an internationally recognized expert on omega-3 fatty acids and how they can benefit patients with heart disease. He obtained his Ph.D. in Human Nutrition from the University of Minnesota and did post-doctoral fellowships in Clinical Nutrition and Lipid Metabolism with Dr. Bill Connor at the Oregon Health Sciences University.

His interest in omega-3 fatty acids began with his postdoctoral work when he published his first study on the effects of salmon oil on serum lipids in humans (1980). Since that time he has been the recipient of five NIH grants for studies on the effects of omega-3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA) on human health. He has more than 300 publications relating to fatty acids, including omega-3s, in medical literature and was an author on two American Heart Association scientific statements on fatty acids: “Fish Consumption, Fish Oil, Omega-3 Fatty Acids and Cardiovascular Disease” (2002), and “Omega-6 Fatty Acids and Risk for Cardiovascular Disease” (2009) both published in the journal Circulation.

Dr. Harris is a Professor in the Department of Medicine in the Sanford School of Medicine at the University of South Dakota and the President and CEO of OmegaQuant.

ABOUT OMEGAQUANT
OmegaQuant is an independent, CLIA-certified lab that offers Omega-3 Index, Prenatal DHA and Mother’s Milk DHA testing to researchers, clinicians and the public.

We perform fatty acid analysis in Sioux Falls, SD, for commercial and academic research collaborators, and for consumers interested in monitoring their nutritional status in both blood and breast milk.

Our goal is to offer the highest quality fatty acid analytical services to researchers and to provide simple tests of nutritional status to consumers, with the ultimate purpose of advancing the science and use of nutrients to improve health.

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Erik Ehli, Ph.D., Research Scientist, Avera Genetics

Currently working as a Research Scientist at Avera Genetics, Dr. Ehli has a research interest in the molecular genetics of complex diseases. He is actively involved in leading genotyping projects on samples collected from children and adolescents through the Netherlands Twin Register.

In addition, Dr. Ehli is working on the molecular characterization of metastatic breast cancer and has an interest in understanding the tumor genetics of gynecological cancer, specifically uterine sarcoma.

Dr. Ehli has extensive training in a diverse range of molecular genetics techniques, including high density SNP genotyping, methylation, next generation sequencing, and pharmacogenetic profiling.

ABOUT AVERA GENETICS
Avera Genetics has been forward-looking since opening its doors in 2006. This strong history of excellence has brought us to lead the way with a large twin registry bank — the first and only in South Dakota — and precision medicine breakthroughs.

As a human molecular genetics laboratory, we have the capability to undertake a wide range of clinical and research projects using advanced technology including:

• Behavioral and cancer genetic studies

• Biobanking

• Personalized medicine

• Tumor registries

• Twin research

By advancing science through numerous partnerships and collaborations — both nationally and internationally — Avera Genetics is already improving the care provided to Avera patients and communities while continuing to advance science and medicine.

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Alexandra Kropotova, EVP & Chief Medical Officer, SAB BIO

Dr. Kropotova MD, MBA is our Executive Vice President & Chief Medical Officer, joining SAB in June, 2022 to lead the strategy, direction, and execution of the company’s clinical development for the entire portfolio. Dr. Kropotova is a biopharmaceutical executive with expertise in all phases of global clinical development, translational medicine and medical affairs. Prior to joining SAb Biotherapeutics, as a Therapeutic Area Head of Global Specialty R&D at Teva Pharmaceuticals, Alexandra led innovative drug development focused on delivering a broad portfolio of immunology, respiratory, and immuno-oncology assets spanning from pre-IND to BLA/NDA filing of biologics and complex drug-device combination products. Prior to Teva, Dr. Kropotova served in various roles at Sanofi, including Vice President, Strategy & Strategic Planning Head, North American Medical Affairs; Associate Vice President and subsequently Vice President, Immuno-Inflammation, Global R&D Clinical Development; and Senior Medical Director, Respiratory, Allergy & Anti-Infectives. She also served in various roles at Pfizer Inc., most recently as Director & Head of Global Clinical Respiratory and Analgesics. She continues to serve on the Board of Directors at iBio, a global leader in plant-based biologics manufacturing and development of novel biopharmaceuticals. Dr. Kropotova received her MBA from Ohio University Graduate School of Business, Athens, Ohio; and her M.D. in Internal Medicine from the Vladivostok State Medical University, Vladivostok, Russia.

ABOUT SAB
SAB BIO is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company working to treat and prevent immune and autoimmune disorders. Founded in 2014 and traded on NASDAQ (SABS) since 2021, SAB BIO’s innovative genetic engineering platform produces human, multi-targeted, high-potency immunoglobulins (IgGs), without the need for human donors or convalescent plasma. The science behind the platform originated in 1998, and the company began its first clinical trials in 2017.  

To date, SAB BIO has conducted seven clinical trials that have dosed 700 individuals across multiple therapeutic areas. The safety and immunogenicity database for these trials shows zero patients with serum sickness or neutralizing anti-drug antibodies, which suggests an improved safety profile over other therapies. 

The company’s lead investigational candidate, SAB-142, is a novel, potentially disease-modifying therapy for type 1 diabetes (T1D). As a potentially redosable human antibody, rather than an insulin or chronic therapy, SAB-142 is being investigated for its ability to delay clinical onset and progression of T1D. 

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 Johna Kern, Director of Global Operations - Sanford World Clinics at Sanford Health

Professional with 20+ years of hands-on leadership and nursing experience spanning dynamic healthcare and law enforcement settings. Aspiring to leverage a broad spectrum of knowledge and extensive experience to excel further in health administration with a focus on leading high quality, patient-centered healthcare. Proven track record overseeing the operations of health care units achieving top quality care delivery, safety, and operational excellence. Respected Leader and Clinical Consultant with a recognized ability to lead, educate, mentor and train healthcare staff, resolve complex problems, and encourage teamwork to facilitate clinically competent care and cost-effective outcomes.

ABOUT SANFORD WORLD CLINIC
Sanford Health started the Sanford World Clinic initiative in 2007 to provide permanent health care services for children.

Sanford World Clinic is always expanding its scope of services to meet the unique needs of the areas we serve. Broader primary care services, regenerative medicine, specialized procedures, weight loss programs, diabetes research and clinic education are just a few of the specializations developed to serve populations around the world.

Models implemented at each location are customized to meet the specific needs and opportunities presented in the market.

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Sophie Alcorn, Alcorn Founding Attorney & Certified Specialist - Immigration

Sophie Alcorn is a Board Certified Specialist in U.S. Immigration and Nationality Law and founder of Alcorn Immigration Law. Her mission is to transcend borders, expand opportunity, and connect the world by practicing compassionate, visionary, and expert immigration law in service of the betterment of humanity. Sophie hosts the Sophie Alcorn Podcast, has written the Ask Sophie™ column for TechCrunch, and authored the bestselling book "Ask Sophie: The Founders' Guide to Visas and Green Cards." A sought-after expert, she's been quoted in major publications and spoken at global conferences. Through her work, Sophie is dedicated to helping people live their dreams in America and empowering professionals to navigate the U.S. immigration system successfully.

ABOUT ALCORN
The Alcorn Advantage Business & Individual Immigration

People from around the world have chosen Alcorn for their U.S. Immigration needs because of our proven ability to build positive relationships with clients—and win. We bring compassion, active listening, and attention to detail to every interaction and put our hearts into building your dreams.

Our mission is to overcome borders, expand opportunity, and connect the world by practicing compassionate, visionary, and rigorous immigration law in service of the betterment of humanity. We are proud of our efforts and the 95%+ approval rating we have earned.

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Dan Engebretson, Ph.D., Vice President for Research & Sponsored Programs, University of South Dakota

Dan Engebretson earned his Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry in 1997 from Michigan State University in East Lansing, MI under the direction of Drs. Daniel Nocera and George Leroi. After graduate school he took the position of Senior Scientist at Dakota Technologies, Inc. in Fargo, ND. He then accepted the position of Senior Research Specialist at the Avera Research Institute in Sioux Falls, SD. After Avera he joined The University of South Dakota as the Director of the Center for Research and Development of Light-Activated Materials, a position he still holds in addition to his duties as the Chair of Biomedical Engineering and the Director of the Graduate Education and Applied Research Center.

Dr. Engebretson's major research interests are the development Fluorescence Resonance Energy Transfer (FRET)-based sensors for in vitro diagnostics and targeted drug delivery. His research has been funded by the National Science Foundation, National Institutes of Health, Department of Defense, and the Department of Transportation.

ABOUT UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH DAKOTA
The University of South Dakota is a vibrant setting of innovation artistry and discovery, with research and creative activity opportunities in all disciplines across campus. USD researchers collaborate with industry professionals to bring new technologies to market as well as carrying out fundamental research in order to elucidate physical processes, improve human health, and protect the environment. In addition to individual research, the university hosts multi-disciplinary competitive research centers that foster academic excellence and spur economic growth. Biomedical engineering, chemistry, and physics are the main pillars of USD’s materials research; key research strengths and facilities within this area include the Center for Ultra-low Background Experiments in Dakotas (CUBED), Graduate Education and Applied Research Center (GEAR), and Center for Security Printing and Anti-Counterfeiting Technologies (SPACT). USD is also home to the state's only medical school. Sanford School of Medicine faculty members teach students the latest techniques and skills for a career in biomedical research. Critical biomedical research areas include anatomy and structural biology, cancer biology, immunology, cardiovascular sciences, microbiology, neuroscience, rural healthcare, pharmacology and physiology, among others. Key research groups and facilities include: South Dakota Biomedical Research Infrastructure Network (BRIN), Neuroscience & Nanotechnology Network (USD-N3), Center for Brain & Behavior Research (CBBRe) and USD’s two biomedical cores: Behavioral Core and Physiology Core.

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Co-Founder and General Partner, South Dakota First Capital
South Dakota Biotech Board Vice President

Dr. Mark Stowers is the Biotech Executive of The Global Bluefish Company, LLC, a global management and financial advisory company which focuses on de-risking agriculture, food, bioproducts, and bioenergy and chemical businesses globally.  It provides diverse business and technical guidance encompassing research management, product development, business development, marketing, mergers and acquisitions, licensing, corporate finance and general management. 

Mark was most recently Chief Operations Officer and President of North America at Inari Agriculture, an emerging gene editing and computational seed design company targeting improved yield and resiliency of corn, soybean and wheat. While at Inari, he was responsible for the early-stage set-up of the company, its product development, the development and launch of the company’s “go to market” strategy, information technology, and its seed supply chain.

Previously he held senior executive positions in the research and business development areas at Limagrain, POET and Monsanto (now Bayer Crop Science). He has also worked to commercialize new biotechnologies and helped new business start-ups as President and CEO of MBI International and the Bio-Business Incubator of Michigan.  He was the co-founder of Draths Corporation and the UCDavis-HM.Clause Life Sciences Innovation Center.  Over the last twenty-five years he led/supported equity and debt financings of over $2 billion including a $200+ million IPO.

Dr. Stowers holds a Ph.D. in microbiology from North Carolina State University (1982) and completed post-doctoral studies at the Boyce Thompson Institute at Cornell University (1983).  He is a NC State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences Distinguished Alumnus (2003). He (as the principal from HM.Clause) is the recipient of the UC Davis Chancellor’s award Innovative Community Partner award (2016). He has served on numerous company, not-for-profit, and university boards and advisory committees.

South Dakota Trade Mission: Connecting South Dakota Companies with East Asia  
Biotech's collaborative 2024 trade mission is fostering valuable connections between South Dakota businesses and East Asian markets, creating new opportunities for growth and collaboration.

MODERATOR: Luke Lindberg, President & CEO - South Dakota Trade
SPEAKERS: 
Dennis Harstad, Houdek - General Manager
Joe Cassady, Dean, College of Ag, SDSU

South Dakota Trade navigates international trade for South Dakota. The association — a 501c(6) public-private partnership — administers South Dakota’s STEP Grant program, conducts export education, facilitates trade missions, and offers free and confidential consulting services to South Dakotan companies.

South Dakota International Trade Statistics

• Total exports: $6.7 billion

• Agricultural exports: $4.92 billion

• Manufacturing exports: $1.73 billion

• 27,075 jobs supported by exports
   

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Sowing Innovation: South Dakota’s Global Impact on Agricultural and Environmental Biotechnology  

MODERATOR: Mark Luecke, Managing Director and CEO, South Dakota Innovation Partners, LLC
SPEAKERS: 
Mark Stowers, Ph.D., South Dakota First Capital
Rob Patterson, CEO - CBS Bio Platforms
Doug Berven, Vice President of Corporate Affairs - POET

Connecting Care: Global Healthcare Partnerships from South Dakota Touching Lives Worldwide
Learn about how international collaborations are enhancing healthcare innovation and delivery within South Dakota, positioning the state as a key player in global health.

MODERATOR:
SPEAKERS:
Sanford Research Clinical Trials or Sanford World Clinics
Erik Ehli, Ph.D, Research Scientist, Avera Clinical Trials/International Twin Registry
Alexandra Kropotrova, MD, MBA, EVP & Chief Medical Officer, SAB Biotherapeutics
Johna Kern, Director of Global Operations - Sanford World Clinics at Sanford Health

Engaging an International Student Workforce. Discover the impact of integrating international students into South Dakota's biotech sector and how it's contributing to a diverse and innovative workforce.

MODERATOR: Dan Engebretson, Ph.D., University of South Dakota, South Dakota Biotech Board Member
SPEAKERS:
Sophie Alcorn, Alcorn Law - Immigration Attorney
Kasie Heiden, Associate Director at the Gallagher International Center - University of South Dakota

Dakota BioWorx is a cutting-edge biotech innovation hub dedicated to supporting the development and commercialization of groundbreaking biotechnologies. Located in the heart of South Dakota, we offer state-of-the-art facilities and expert bioprocessing services, helping startups, researchers, and established companies scale their projects from concept to market. Our comprehensive support includes bioprocess scale up, contract manufacturing (CMO), and contract development manufacturing (CDMO) services, providing end-to-end solutions for process validation, optimization, and pilot-scale production up to 3000L. By fostering collaboration with industry leaders and academic institutions, Dakota BioWorx is committed to advancing the field of biotechnology and driving economic growth in the region. As a proud sponsor, we are excited to connect with fellow innovators and contribute to the future of biotechnology.

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Brookings Economic Development Corporation is the primary engine for promoting economic growth in Brookings, South Dakota and the surrounding area. BEDC serves as an advocate for the business community by building relationships with companies that allow them to succeed by taking advantage of the area's unique and progressive business environment.

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2024 PRESENTING SPONSOR
The Research Park strives to establish itself as a physical environment that can deve​lop, attract and retain technology companies that are aligned to the talent and sponsored research conducted at SDSU. ​

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2024 GOLD SPONSOR
POET’s vision is to create a world in sync with nature. As the world’s largest producer of biofuel and a global leader in sustainable bioproducts, POET creates plant-based alternatives to fossil fuels that unleash the regenerative power of agriculture and cultivate opportunities for America’s farm families. Founded in 1987 and headquartered in Sioux Falls, POET operates 34 bioprocessing facilities across eight states and employs more than 2,400 team members. With a suite of bioproducts that includes high-quality animal feed, corn oil, green asphalt rejuvenator, purified alcohol, and renewable CO2, POET nurtures an unceasing commitment to innovation and advances powerful, practical solutions to some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Today, POET holds more than 100 patents worldwide and continues to break new ground in biotechnology, yielding lower-carbon, more efficient renewable energy and bioproducts.

2024 GOLD SPONSOR
The University of South Dakota is a vibrant setting of innovation artistry and discovery, with research and creative activity opportunities in all disciplines across campus. USD researchers collaborate with industry professionals to bring new technologies to market as well as carrying out fundamental research in order to elucidate physical processes, improve human health, and protect the environment. In addition to individual research, the university hosts multi-disciplinary competitive research centers that foster academic excellence and spur economic growth. Biomedical engineering, chemistry, and physics are the main pillars of USD’s materials research; key research strengths and facilities within this area include the Center for Ultra-low Background Experiments in Dakotas (CUBED), Graduate Education and Applied Research Center (GEAR), and Center for Security Printing and Anti-Counterfeiting Technologies (SPACT). USD is also home to the state's only medical school. Sanford School of Medicine faculty members teach students the latest techniques and skills for a career in biomedical research. Critical biomedical research areas include anatomy and structural biology, cancer biology, immunology, cardiovascular sciences, microbiology, neuroscience, rural healthcare, pharmacology and physiology, among others. Key research groups and facilities include: South Dakota Biomedical Research Infrastructure Network (BRIN), Neuroscience & Nanotechnology Network (USD-N3), Center for Brain & Behavior Research (CBBRe) and USD’s two biomedical cores: Behavioral Core and Physiology Core.

2024 SILVER SPONSOR
Biotechnology Innovation Organization [BIO]  is the world's largest biotechnology organization, providing advocacy, business development and communications services for more than 1,200 members worldwide. Our mission is to be the champion of biotechnology and the advocate for our member organizations—both large and small. BIO members are involved in the research and development of innovative healthcare, agricultural, industrial and environmental biotechnology technologies. Corporate members range from entrepreneurial companies developing a first product to Fortune 100 multinationals. We also represent state and regional biotech associations, service providers to the industry and academic centers.

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South Dakota EPSCoR has partnering with South Dakota Biotech on Educator STEM grants.

The National Science Foundation (NSF) created the Established Program to Stimulate Competitive Research (EPSCoR) and South Dakota was one of the initial jurisdictions to join the program, starting in 1987. The EPSCoR program is designed to assist states to establish a self-sustaining academic research enterprise with the competitive capability that will contribute to the states' economic viability and development. SD EPSCoR's mission is to strengthen research and education in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) across South Dakota to increase science literacy and drive science-based economic development. SD EPSCoR helps build South Dakota's research infrastructure and increases its capacity to successfully compete for federal funding.

Current Goals of South Dakota EPSCoR include:

• Increase South Dakota’s science and technology research capacity

• Provide educational opportunities for K-12, undergraduate and graduate students

• Promote science-based economic development for South Dakota

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2024 BRONZE SPONSOR
The USD Discovery District is an 80-acre contemporary corporate and academic research park is a public-private partnership effort between USD, the City of Sioux Falls, the South Dakota Board of Regents, the Governor’s Office of Economic Development and the business community through Forward Sioux Falls. The research park's expansion is anticipated to conclude over a 25-year timeline. Upon full completion, the expected economic outcomes encompass 26 privately constructed buildings, with a combined construction value exceeding $314 million. Additionally, the research park is projected to provide employment opportunities for nearly 2,800 individuals through companies situated within the district.

The concept for the Discovery District began more than two decades ago, with leaders in business and education coming together to set a strategy on growing technology-based business in South Dakota. In 2012, the legislature passed and Governor Daugaard signed legislation to authorize research parks on lands controlled by the South Dakota Board of Regents. The USD research park corporation was formed later that year. The USD Discovery District name was formalized in 2015. 

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Viaflex where quality, service, and innovation meet excellence in polymer film and sheeting solutions for covers, liners, and caps. As a leader in the polymer manufacturing industry, we are dedicated to identifying the products, systems, and services best suited to tackle your containment needs. With a fully integrated system from design through installation, Viaflex is the perfect partner.

Explore Viaflex today and simplify your next containment project.

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We deliver value-based breathing technologies to simplify complexity for healthcare systems, providers, and patients.

Our team has elevated ventilation design to provide ICU-standard respiratory support in an elegant and robust system that removes unnecessary complexity and cost. We aim to produce reliable solutions that are easy to use for daily and off-the-shelf ventilation so providers can focus on critical patient needs. CorVent Medical is proud to be ISO 13485 certified and compliant with 21CFR820.30 as well as cGMPs.

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Principal connects all kinds of experts—the savvy business leader, the hardworking employee, the thoughtful investor—with the retirement, benefits, and investment insights they need to feel confident taking the next step.

For more than 140 years, we’ve helped people and businesses confidently reach their goals.

Principal has never stopped learning, growing, and adapting. Today, we continue to lead with our core values. Our culture is powered by people and led by a diverse management team. Our 19,000 employees—located in 27 nations and territories in Asia, Australia, Europe, Latin America, and North America—drive change in their own communities. Learn more about the history and impact of Principal.

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Founded in 2004
Serving South Dakota / Iowa / Minnesota / Nebraska / North Dakota

At Risty Benefits, we realize that every company is as different as the individual employees that make up that company.  Each of our clients and prospective clients has unique needs and challenges, and we take pride in our abilities to efficiently respond to those needs and challenges.  

In a world where many companies seem to lead with pictures of their over-priced offices and their self-serving trophies, it’s important for us not to lose sight of the fact that our clients are the ones who should be receiving the most reward. 

Our team offers more than 50 years of experience servicing the states of South Dakota, North Dakota, Iowa, Minnesota, and Nebraska.  

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Every Girl Scout has their own curiosity, dreams, and talents—so when they come together to decide which of the thousands of Girl Scout activities to try, the sky’s the limit. Whether visiting an animal shelter, camping, hosting a dance-off, or filming a movie—they’re learning to take risks, trust their gut, and team up with others for good.

Taking STEM on the road. 

The Mobile STEM Center provides girls with empowering, hands-on STEM learning opportunities in their  communities!

We are able to bring our unique STEM badge-earning programs to all corners of our 164,000-square-mile council with hands-on, mind-on activities. Working in partnership with volunteers, engaging curriculum is delivered to Girl Scouts allowing them to hone their skills while having fun and gaining confidence.

Girl Scouts has been the nation’s premier leadership organization for girls for more than 110 years. Our proven leadership program provides girls with a supportive place for growth, exploration, and achievement. In fact, our programs have inspired nearly half of our nation’s female business leaders, movers and shakers in public service, and nearly every woman who has flown into space.

By bringing our STEM programming on the road, we’re able to meet Girl Scouts where they are at so they can continue exploring their interest in STEM and future STEM careers, helping to fill the STEM workforce pipeline and aid in closing the STEM gender gap.

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VOLGA MANUFACTURING CENTER
Please join us following the Summit, to tour CBS Bio Platforms' new manufacturing center and office, just 15 miles west of Brookings.
If you'd like to attend, please respond at link below.

CBS Bio Platforms Inc. is an innovation-driven company committed to advancing feed technology and animal nutrition. With over 40 years of experience, CBS has developed a broad portfolio of natural feed supplements, enzymes, and yeast-based technologies designed to enhance animal performance, improve intestinal tract health, and support efficient disease management operations.

Our global footprint includes facilities in Canada, international markets throughout Asia and South America and now in the United States with our first production facility opening in Volga, SD. With strategic university partnerships and a robust research and development framework, CBS Bio Platforms continues to pioneer solutions that meet the evolving needs of nutritionists, veterinarians, farmers, and commercial producers.

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AFTER SUMMIT TOURS
We invite you to join us on the afternoon of the Summit for a tour of Dakota BioWorx, where you’ll get an inside look at our Pilot Scale-up Fermentation and Downstream Processing Facility. Highlights include our 3000L Precision Fermentation Bioreactor, Relco Spray Dryer, and state-of-the-art Process Validation and Optimization labs. Light refreshments will be provided, and tours will be available from 1:00 to 6:00 p.m. Dakota BioWorx is conveniently located at 2405 Research Park Way, just 2.2 miles from the Conference Center in the Research Park.

We look forward to showing you how we help bring biotech innovations to life!

RSVP below or contact email

RSVP HERE

ABOUT DAKOTA BIOWORX
Dakota BioWorx is a cutting-edge biotech innovation hub dedicated to supporting the development and commercialization of groundbreaking biotechnologies. Located in the heart of South Dakota, we offer state-of-the-art facilities and expert bioprocessing services, helping startups, researchers, and established companies scale their projects from concept to market. Our comprehensive support includes bioprocess scale up, contract manufacturing (CMO), and contract development manufacturing (CDMO) services, providing end-to-end solutions for process validation, optimization, and pilot-scale production up to 3000L. By fostering collaboration with industry leaders and academic institutions, Dakota BioWorx is committed to advancing the field of biotechnology and driving economic growth in the region. As a proud sponsor, we are excited to connect with fellow innovators and contribute to the future of biotechnology.

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