Investor Spotlight: Jay Bender

Vision Brookings has long benefited from the leadership and commitment of Jay Bender, one of its original investors. Jay supported efforts to raise the private funds needed to launch the Research Park at SDSU, an initiative that continues to spark innovation and economic growth in the region. He has remained an active supporter ever since, believing in the power of leveraging public and private partnerships to bring impactful development projects to life.

"Brookings is a friendly community, a manufacturing powerhouse, and home to SDSU. It is a wonderful place to call home," Jay shared. Jay’s deep connection to Brookings runs parallel to his successful career in manufacturing. After graduating with an engineering degree from SDSU, he worked in technical roles at EF Johnson in Minnesota and Rubbermaid in Ohio before returning to Brookings to spend the remainder of his career at Falcon Plastics.

Having a huge passion for family and his business, Jay has helped to make a difference in the Brookings community. “We refer to everyone at Falcon Plastics as our Falcon Family!” shares Jay. Whether in business or community development, Jay brings a lasting vision and dedication that continues to shape the future of Brookings. His continued investment in Vision Brookings reflects that same commitment to progress and collaboration.