MITCHELL, SD (Mitchell Now) — Young entrepreneurs in Mitchell are getting the opportunity to bring their business ideas to life in a high-traffic area near the Corn Palace.
Students from Mitchell High School, Mitchell Technical College and Dakota Wesleyan University recently competed in a Shark Tank-style event for retail space in the Palace Park Mall courtyard. The competition was designed to give students real-world business experience while encouraging new retail development in the community.
Taking first place was Wesley Robertson with SoDak BBQ Supply, a business focused on sauces, rubs and grilling products.
Organizers say the initiative aims to spark retail growth while giving students the chance to manage storefront operations firsthand. the Corn Palace, one of Mitchell’s top attractions.
Local leaders say the effort is focused on building the next generation of business owners by providing meaningful, hands-on opportunities right in Mitchell.