NEWS RELEASE

FOR RELEASE: Thursday, December 5, 2013
CONTACT: Natalie Likness, Governor’s Office of Economic Development, 605.773.3301

Minnesota-based Company Expanding to Howard, S.D.

Howard, S.D. – Donnerite Inc., a Minnesota-based company, announced today that it will be expanding its operations to Howard, S.D. Donnerite operates a truck and heavy equipment repair company and manufacturing business that specializes in custom design and fabrication of all types of projects.

“Donnerite Inc.’s decision to expand its operations to our state is a testament to what South Dakota has to offer,” said Gov. Dennis Daugaard. “Word is spreading that South Dakota has a business-friendly environment, quality workforce and an unbeatable way of life.”

“We are very excited to be expanding our design and fabricating business to Howard,” said Bill Donner, co-owner of Donnerite, Inc. “We are moving into an existing building and will be hiring local people. We hope to bring in others from outside Howard and surrounding areas, encouraging them to relocate to the community."

Donnerite, Inc. is co-owned by Bill and Deb Donner of Spicer, Minn.

“Donnerite Company is the perfect fit for Howard and the vacant Knight & Carver building,” said Russell Olson, CEO of Heartland Consumers Power District. “We have been working with state and local officials for some time to fill that space. Bill and Deb Donner have a passion for small towns and have run a successful company for nearly two decades. They will have a positive impact on the community and we at Heartland are excited about Howard’s bright future.”

“Howard Industries is looking forward to Donnerite Inc. expanding its design and fabricating business to our community,” said John Mengenhausen, president of Howard Industries. “Donnerite has a successful record and will be a big boost to the local economy. It has been great working with Heartland Consumers Power District and the Governor’s Office of Economic Development to get this accomplished. Donnerite will be an excellent addition to our industrial park.”

Donerite Inc. began its operations in 1996 with a repair shop based out of Bill and Deb’s home. During the past 17 years, Donnerite has grown from one small shop to six businesses throughout Minnesota, employing close to 100 people.

-30-