Spearfish, SD. SD CEO -- West Women's Business Center (SD CEO West) is pleased to announce the appointment of Elizabeth Freer as its new Director.

Elizabeth Freer brings 25 years of experience and expertise in the field of entrepreneurship and project management. Her vision and leadership come at a pivotal moment for SD CEO West as it continues to expand its reach and impact across rural South Dakota.

SD CEO West is celebrating its 15th year of empowering and supporting women entrepreneurs and intrapreneurs, and the addition of Ms. Freer will help propel SD CEO West’s vision.

Sandy Burns, President of the SD CEO West Advisory Board, said, "The Board looks forward to working with Elizabeth to provide the leadership and vision for the future of SD CEO West. Her passion for women's empowerment and her track record in supporting the growth of small businesses through her project management expertise, which aligns perfectly with our organization's values. We are confident that Elizabeth will play a vital role in empowering women business ownership across the state."

Elizabeth Freer's professional journey is marked by dedication to community development. As the owner of her consulting firm, dialogue LLC, Elizabeth consulted and managed major projects throughout the Black Hills, including the Bush Foundation Community Innovation Grant that funded ArtCentral at The Matthews in Spearfish, SD and planning for the world-class STEM institute in Lead, SD for the South Dakota Science and Technology Authority Sanford Underground Research Facility. Her commitment to creating opportunities and providing resources to the community has already earned her a strong reputation throughout the Black Hills region.

"I am honored to join the SD CEO West Women's Business Center," said Elizabeth Freer. "This organization has a remarkable track record of providing resources empowering women while promoting entrepreneurship, and I am excited to lead the organization into the future. As we embark on our 15th year, we are excited to continue to build a supportive community where women can thrive and turn their business dreams into reality."

Under Elizabeth Freer's leadership, SD CEO West is poised to enhance its already robust program offerings, which include free and confidential 1:1 business advising, technical training and workshops, networking events, professional conferences, and access to vital resources that enable women entrepreneurs to succeed.

About SD CEO

Focused on empowering women and entrepreneurship across South Dakota, SD CEO West, partially grant funded by the U.S. Small Business Association (SBA), provides those interested in starting or already owning their own businesses with the resources they need to succeed. Along with free and confidential business consultation, SD CEO West offers in-person workshops, online training courses, educational seminars, and networking opportunities. With connections to experts across all areas of business startup, management, and growth, SD CEO West can help entrepreneurs in any stage of their business find the resources they need.

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Media Contact:

Ashley Wingert

Program Assistant

Ashley.Wingert@BHSU.edu

605-642-6948

BHSU SD CEO webpage