WATERTOWN, S.D.(Press Release)- The Governor’s Office of Economic Development in South Dakota has announced that it is now accepting applications for the Blender Pump Grant program. This initiative is designed to encourage the use of ethanol blended fuels, a vital component of the state’s value-added agriculture sector.
“Ethanol is an important part of value-added agriculture in South Dakota, with 1.4 billion gallons of ethanol produced annually,” said Deputy Commissioner Chris Schilken. “We are pleased that we can offer this assistance to retailers to help increase the availability of ethanol blends to more consumers.”
The program has been allocated a budget of $500,000. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis, with an application deadline of August 31, 2024. Businesses may apply for up to $25,000 for the first pump and $10,000 for subsequent pumps. The actual awards will be dependent on the number of applicants.
The grant program is part of the Ethanol Infrastructure Incentive Program and aims to increase the number of ethanol flex pumps, also known as blender pumps, installed in the state. These pumps must dispense a 10 percent blend of ethanol, a blend of 15 percent ethanol or more, and a blend of 25 percent ethanol or more. They must also meet all current industry and compatibility standards with all applicable equipment.
Businesses interested in applying for the grant are encouraged to submit a complete application to avoid missing out on this funding opportunity. The application form and more information on the program can be found on the South Dakota Governor’s Office of Economic Development website. Ethanol Blender Pump Grant – South Dakota (sdgoed.com)
Successful applicants must provide semiannual site performance reports to the State through February 1, 2027. The site performance report form will be part of the applicant’s executed agreement with the State. Applicants must also certify that they understand that after receiving a grant, the retail location listed in the application will be required to sell mid-level ethanol blended fuels through at least December 30, 2026.