1886
Rapid City Chamber of Commerce is Founded.
1973
Rapid City Economic Development Foundation is founded to act as a vehicle for the development of the Rushmore Industrial Park receiving federal funds earmarked rebuilding infrastructure and expanding real estate opportunities after the flood of 1972.
1990
Rapid City Economic Development Partnership is founded to improve the efforts of the Foundation and address retention and expansion of industry.
1994
Rapid City Economic Development Loan Fund Is Created
1998
Expansion Of The Rushmore Business Park
2006
Black Hills Business Development Center opens on South Dakota School of Mines & Technology campus
2008
First formal tenant occupies office space at Black Hills Business Development Center: Evans & Sutherland R&D.
2008
February: Black Hills Regional Angel Fund, LLC launches.
2015
Chamber of Commerce Board Focus Group concludes a streamlined economic development effort is needed.
2016
Representatives from the Chamber of Commerce and Rapid City Economic Development Partnership boards discussed the possibilities of an aligned economic development effort.
2017
January: Chamber of Commerce board approved the creation of a new independent organization via a joint venture agreement with the Rapid City Economic Development Partnership.
2017
September: Strategic vision for Elevate Rapid City and 5-year goals established.
2017
Rapid City Foundation’s acquisition of property at 18 E. Main St. from City approval.
2018
Black Hills Business Development Center re-brands to Ascent Innovation
2020
Elevate Rapid City creates Emergency Bridge Loan Program in response to COVID-19; Inaugural issue of Elevate Magazine is released.
2021
Elevate Rapid City moves in new headquarters at 18 East Main St.
