Startup Sioux Falls has named Jael Thorpe as the speaker for their annual Founders Day event. Thorpe, a renowned entrepreneur and innovator known for her fan apparel brand Gameday Social Apparel Co., is expected to enlighten the startup community with her insights and experiences.
Thorpe’s brand gained significant momentum, despite shutting down physical stores due to the pandemic. Transitioning to an online business model and employing digital marketing strategies, her brand expanded globally, attracting a diversified customer base and outperforming her initial boutique sales.
From originally being based in Brookings to relocating to Sioux Falls, Thorpe guided Gameday Social Apparel Co to continued growth. The company has made notable achievements such as enlargements, significant licensing rights, and even induction into the NHL. Future plans entail affiliating with two major national retailers, a testament to Thorpe’s leadership.
At the Founders Day event, Thorpe aims to share not only her successes but also her failures, emphasizing that obstacles serve as learning opportunities. Thorpe maintains that it is crucial for everyone to understand the importance of persistence, and the capacity of overcoming adversity.
Sara Lum, the vice president of Startup Sioux Falls, appreciates Thorpe’s entrepreneurial spirit. She sees Founders Day as an opportunity for entrepreneurs to connect with community supporters and business leaders. Lum believes that fostering such connections can facilitate opportunities, alliances, and enable businesses to tackle challenges effectively.
The Founders Day event will feature interactive sessions, a luncheon for over 350 members of the CO.STARTERS, keynote speeches from Zeal Center’s alumni, and a showcase of promising startups. The day will consist of workshops aimed at promoting entrepreneurial skills and creative thinking. Prizes will be awarded for the most innovative ideas. The event will conclude with a networking reception, an opportunity for attendees to engage with potential mentors, partners, and investors. Founders Day aims to inspire and empower entrepreneurs, underscoring the vitality of unity for the betterment of Sioux Falls’ business environment.
