Ruff Tough Kennels, which manufacturers dog kennels, plans an upgrade to its manufacturing and production center in Tea, South Dakota.

According to state officials the company has been approved for a MicroLOAN by the South Dakota Development Corporation. The funds from the loan will be used to purchase a new rotational molding machine.

Doug Sangl, one of the company’s co-owners, said the new machinery will allow Ruff Tough to double the production of its kennels.

“Pet owners love our kennels because they’re durable, they’re light-weight, and they keep pets safe when riding in vehicles,” Sangl said. “But as our kennels became more popular, we couldn’t keep up with the demand. We quickly grew out of the building we were in, moved into a larger building down the street and with the help of the MicroLOAN, we invested in new equipment that will double our kennel production.”

“We’ve been in business for more than 15 years, and during that time, we’ve learned that starting a business in South Dakota can be made easier when you have support from your state and local governments. Working with the GOED and American Bank & Trust made everything so easy and seamless,” Sangl added.

Sangl, along with his partner Lyle Van Kalsbeek, say their company’s success has prompted them to expand their product line. Dumpster lids, transport boxes for birds and fillet boards to clean fish are a few other examples of what Ruff Tough produces.

“Whatever products we decide to get in to, we know they’ll be top-of-the-line, high quality products,” Sangl said. “Our new equipment gives us that freedom and capacity to produce quality, sturdy and dependable products, and that’s what our customers deserve.”

“MicroLOAN funds can assist small businesses in South Dakota with working capital, equipment, real estate and other expenses,” said Scott Stern, Commissioner, Governor’s Office of Economic Development (GOED). “GOED and its partners, such as the SDDC, have a variety of tools that supports economic growth in our state, and if you contact our office, we will find one that supports your business.”

“Small businesses are the backbone of our economy so it is crucial for them to succeed,” said Bob Miller, SDDC chairman. “Our MicroLOAN and SBA 504 loan programs can help facilitate that success and growth. Reasonable, fixed, long-term interest rates provide flexibility to small business owners, and that’s what helps make doing business in South Dakota so ideal.”