February 4, 2026
In this episode of Favorable Environments, Host Tung Nguyen speaks with fellow members of theUSD Discovery District leadership team—Ryan, President; Marc, Director of Biotech Development; in a reflective discussion—about the organization’s first operational year since taking possession of Building 1 in January 2025. The team shares candid insights into the milestones achieved, the challenges navigated, and the strategic pivots that have positioned the District as a purpose-built hub for bioscience and life sciences innovation in Sioux Falls.
The conversation explores the pragmatic realities of building a research park from the ground up: from refining tenant profiles to prioritize research-oriented companies, to developing a resource-mapping platform that connects prospects with statewide assets in academia, healthcare, and industry. Ryan, Marc, and Tung reflect on lessons from early tenant engagements, the value of an abundance mindset in partnerships, and how South Dakota’s low-density networks and statewide support create scalable advantages for commercialization and long-term growth. They discuss the importance of relationships as infrastructure—beyond buildings—and how collaborations with entities such as the University of South Dakota, Forward Sioux Falls, and regional healthcare systems drive momentum.
Later in the episode, the team addresses the cultural evolution of a small, agile group, the need for disciplined filtering of opportunities, and the vision for future phases, including alpha and beta testing of the resource-mapping tool and its potential as a standalone platform. The discussion highlights why the USD Discovery District serves as a conduit between university research, private sector ambition, and community impact, advancing applied research, talent pipelines, and bioscience scaling in a region built for resilience.
This episode provides an inside look at the disciplined progress behind South Dakota’s emerging bioscience campus and why the USD Discovery District continues to create favorable environments for mission-driven innovation, partnerships, and economic impact.
To stay connected with the USD Discovery District, follow us on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/usd-discovery-district and discover opportunities at usddiscovery.com, including leasing at Building 1 for research, diagnostics, and advanced manufacturing.
Favorable Environments is presented by the USD Discovery District and supported by South Dakota First Capital, working to expand access to capital for companies building the future of bioscience in the region.
About this Guest
Ryan Oines leads the USD Discovery District as President and CEO, driving economic growth through biotech and life sciences innovation. With over 25 years of experience launching startups and securing capital, he oversees a $314M development plan for 26 buildings, fostering 2,800 jobs. His strategic vision strengthens public-private partnerships, positioning South Dakota as a hub for research and commercialization.
Marc Niamba advances the USD Discovery District’s mission to pioneer life sciences innovation. As a key contributor to GreenLight Bionics, he leverages virtual reality to enhance physical therapy solutions, earning recognition in the 2021 Governor’s Giant Vision Competition. His expertise in computer science and artificial intelligence has enabled him to create internal management and tenant recruitment tools.
Tung Nguyen amplifies the USD Discovery District’s vision of innovation and economic impact. With a background in mechanical engineering and regulatory strategy, he crafts data-driven campaigns to attract biotech tenants and showcase the District’s $23MM funded private public partnership. Nguyen’s strategic storytelling connects academia, industry, and government, driving engagement and growth across South Dakota’s life sciences ecosystem.
Bill Betten is an experienced engineer and entrepreneur in the medtech industry, currently serving as President of Betten System Solutions and Director of Solutions – Medtech at S3 Connected Health. We met Bill at the Medical Alley Annual Summit, where he shared his journey from Redfield, South Dakota to leading product development for major medical device companies.
Lisa is a Professor of Practice in the Department of Biomedical Engineering and Director of Biomechanics Research at the University of South Dakota. With a career spanning academia and applied science, she explores the complexities of human movement to optimize performance, reduce injury risks, and enhance rehabilitation. Her interdisciplinary approach involves collaborations across medicine, kinesiology, therapy, psychology, and computer science. Previously, she led the Sanford Sports Science Institute and now focuses on integrating AI and computer vision into biomechanics, making advanced motion-capture technology more accessible. Dr. MacFadden is also dedicated to STEM outreach, inspiring students to pursue careers in biomechanics through initiatives like the Biomechanics Initiative. Today, her work continues to advance the field, combining advanced technology with a passion for teaching and mentoring.
Wassim Laroussi is the founder and creator of The Biotech Investor Youtube channel.
The Biotech Investor is dedicated to exploring the biotechnology sector, with a focus on small to medium-sized companies developing innovative therapies and medications. The channel provides biweekly financial analyses of promising biotech stocks, offering insights into their potential impact on healthcare. Each episode covers recent developments and key factors for investors to consider. Aimed at both experienced and new investors, The Biotech Investor delivers clear, detailed information to support informed decision-making in the evolving world of biotechnology.
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