PIERRE, S.D. (Oct. 30, 2025) — Pioneer Bank & Trust has committed $50,000 to support the South Dakota Ag Foundation’s efforts to strengthen agriculture across the state. The contribution will be distributed in $10,000 installments over the next five years.
“At the South Dakota Ag Foundation, we’re committed to growing our reach across the state through the Keep Farmers Farming program,” said Tif Robertson, board member of the Foundation. “Pioneer Bank & Trust plays a vital role in helping us connect with producers—especially in western South Dakota—where their ties run deep in the ranching community.”
“The South Dakota Ag Foundation is doing important work to support the next generation of farmers and ranchers,” said Clay Birkeland, Senior Vice President and Director of Agricultural Banking at Pioneer Bank & Trust. “We’re proud to partner with them in that effort.”
The Keep Farmers Farming program officially became part of the South Dakota Ag Foundation on January 1, 2025. This legacy planning initiative helps farm and ranch families navigate the process of transitioning their operations to the next generation — ensuring the continued vitality of South Dakota communities.
About the South Dakota Ag Foundation
The South Dakota Ag Foundation was formed in 2015 as an independent, industry-led nonprofit comprised of South Dakota leaders dedicated to enriching agriculture for generations to come. The Foundation is committed to being the South Dakota ag community’s trusted philanthropic partner as it works to support rural communities and the development of the next generation of agricultural leaders.
Endowed funds are used to invest in projects and provide grants that have a lasting impact on the future of South Dakota agriculture. Its partners are organizations and individuals who share a love of the land, a passion for the agricultural community, and a vision for the future of the state.
The South Dakota Ag Foundation currently has more than $3 million in endowed funds. Over the past six years, the Foundation has awarded grants to a variety of community organizations throughout the state, as well as youth education and leadership development programs.
About Pioneer Bank & Trust
Pioneer Bank & Trust began in 1913 in Buffalo, South Dakota by F.M. and H.W. Clarkson, hard working men known for their fairness and their willingness to help neighbors. From those humble beginnings, Pioneer Bank & Trust has grown to an asset size of nearly $1 billion and serves five communities at six locations in Western South Dakota with banks in Belle Fourche, Buffalo, Spearfish, Sturgis and two Rapid City locations. For more about Pioneer Bank & Trust go to PioneerBankAndTrust.com.
