SEDF’s mission is to help create and promote community and economic development in Clay, Lincoln, McCook, Minnehaha, Turner, and Union Counties through its business and housing loan programs.

Created in 2002, SEDF incorporated as a non-profit organization with an initial goal of raising $1,000,000 to capitalize its revolving loan fund.  As of the end of 2006, SEDF had made a total of 31 loans, committing over $1.7 million for loans in 18 communities throughout southeastern South Dakota.

SEDF is governed by a five-member Board of Directors that also serves as the SEDF loan committee.  SEDF’s Board meets monthly, or as needed, to approve SEDF loans.  SEDF also maintains a seven-member Advisory Board that meets on a quarterly basis to provide feedback and recommendations to SEDF on potential community and economic development opportunities.

The 2006 SEDF Annual Report provides additional information on SEDF’s history and mission.