SDCF Recognized Among… | South Dakota Community Foundation

Bush Prize: South Dakota 2025 Winners Announced!

SDCF Recognized Among Top-Performing U.S. Community Foundations

November 4, 2025 // Donors, Grants

South Dakota Community Foundation (SDCF) is proud to share exciting news from the newly released 2023 Census of Community Foundations by the Community Foundation Research and Training Institute (CFRTI). The census provides a comprehensive analysis of the 900 community foundations across the United States as of year-end 2023 — and SDCF stands out among them.

According to the report, SDCF ranks 37th in total assets among all 900 community foundations nationwide. While this placement is remarkable, the most noteworthy recognition comes from SDCF’s growth trajectory. Among the 148 community foundations managing assets over $100 million, SDCF ranks first in the nation for fastest growth from 2018 to 2023.

“This recognition reflects the incredible generosity of South Dakotans and the trust they place in SDCF to strengthen our communities,” said Stephanie Judson, SDCF President & CEO. “Our mission has always been to help people invest in the future of our state, and this report demonstrates the collective power of that commitment.”

The CFRTI census highlights SDCF’s exceptional progress and its growing impact across South Dakota’s communities, students and nonprofits. 

“While we celebrate this milestone,” added Scott Jones, SDCF Chair, “our focus remains on creating opportunity—ensuring every gift entrusted to SDCF continues to make a difference for generations to come.”

The full 2023 Census of Community Foundations report is available through the Community Foundation Research and Training Institute. Click here for full report. 

As SDCF looks ahead, this recognition further energizes its mission to expand opportunities for South Dakotans to invest in lasting, meaningful change across the state.

SDCF is a public non-profit organization established in 1987. SDCF, with offices in Pierre, Rapid City, Sioux Falls, Aberdeen and Mitchell administers 1,300 funds benefiting hundreds of charitable organizations annually. The Foundation distributed nearly $40 million in grants in 2024 which made a tremendous difference in communities statewide. This would not have been possible without the generosity of our donors. If you have a specific cause you would like to support or would prefer to give for the general good of our state, please visit https://sdcommunityfoundation.org/giving to learn more or call 1-800-888-1842.