Welcome our newest MVP Intern, Sydney Welte!

Next time you’re here at Startup Sioux Falls, you’ll likely have the chance to meet our newest MVP Intern, Sydney Welte!

Sydney is eager to dive into the dynamic environment at Startup Sioux Falls. With a keen interest in event management and community-building, she is ready to contribute her skills to our organization. We’re thrilled to welcome her to the team and look forward to seeing the impact she will make.

Check out our Q&A with Sydney below to learn more about her role and how she will enhance our programs and events!

What motivated you to join Startup Sioux Falls as an MVP intern, and what are you most excited about in this role?

I was inspired to join Startup Sioux Falls as an MVP intern after a recommendation from a former employer, who praised the innovative and community-focused environment here. Although I was new to coworking spaces, the potential for fostering innovation and community-building intrigued me. I’m particularly excited about diving into booking, managing, and planning a variety of events. With this new role, I see a unique opportunity to help shape its impact while gaining hands-on experience in managing diverse event spaces. I look forward to developing my event management skills and finding ways to optimize these spaces to benefit the Startup Sioux Falls community.

Can you share a bit about your background and any previous experiences that have prepared you for this internship?

Growing up in a small town, I developed a deep appreciation for how events can build community and foster collaboration. While studying at the University of Northern Iowa, I worked as a trip coordinator, leading backcountry adventures and furthering my interest in event planning. My subsequent internship with Ankeny Parks and Recreation allowed me to manage sports programs, brainstorm new events, and organize the Beats and Eats summer festival. These experiences confirmed my passion for creating memorable experiences and fostering community connections. Joining Startup Sioux Falls feels like the perfect next step to continue exploring my passion for event coordination.

What projects or initiatives will you be focusing on during your time with us, and how do you hope to contribute to our community?

During my time at Startup Sioux Falls, I’ll be involved in managing facility and administrative tasks and exploring innovative approaches to event planning. I’m excited to collaborate with my colleagues to shape my role and discover the best ways to support and elevate Startup Sioux Falls. I aim to organize a range of engaging events that inspire our members and strengthen community connections. Additionally, I’ll focus on providing meaningful support to our members, ensuring they have the resources needed to succeed and feel valued. My goal is to contribute to a vibrant and supportive community that drives innovation and growth for both Startup Sioux Falls and the wider Sioux Falls area.

What are some of your personal interests or hobbies outside of work that you’d like the community to know about?

Outside of work, I enjoy staying active, playing guitar, spending time with friends, and catching up on my favorite shows. I thrive on spontaneity and adventure, so my daily routine is quite varied. Whether I’m engaging in different activities or staying active, I’m happiest when on the go and keeping my mind engaged.

How can the community best support you in your new role, and what are you looking forward to learning or achieving while you’re here?

You can best support me by booking our conference rooms and MarketBeat theater for your events and meetings! Doing so will give me valuable opportunities to expand my expertise. Each event space is unique, and learning different planning methods will significantly contribute to my professional growth. I’m excited to meet new people and deepen my understanding of entrepreneurship, and I’m confident I’ll enjoy my time here at Startup Sioux Falls.