Startup Sunrise – Software Founders
On August 7, Startup Sioux Falls welcomed a dynamic audience to the Software Founders edition of Startup Sunrise. This monthly event brings together entrepreneurs and their supporters, providing a platform for open dialogue, insightful Q&A, and opportunities to envision a future driven by technological advancements.
Read on to meet the speakers and explore their insights from the Q&A session.
MEET THE PERFORMER & SPEAKERS
Local Musician: Alexis Lorene
Alexis Lorene launched the event with a captivating musical performance at the social start, creating an energetic and engaging atmosphere for the morning.
David Zimmer – Co-Owner at My Part Pros
Born and raised in Sioux Falls, SD, David started his career in a dealership’s parts department at the age of 18. Over the years, alongside his brother, they’ve accumulated more than two decades of combined experience in the industry. Recognizing a significant opportunity to enhance efficiency, their shared passion for technology motivated them to establish their own software company.
Gavin Van De Walle – Owner at FoodSafePal
Gavin Van De Walle, a registered dietitian nutritionist with a master’s degree in human nutrition and food science, is the founder and program administrator of FoodSafePal. FoodSafePal offers accredited food safety training online, ensuring quality education in the field.
A big thank you to Alisha Vincent from Desty for moderating the conversation, and to Natural Grocers for providing healthy snacks for the event!
QUESTION AND ANSWER
How did you decide on your software creation tools?
Gavin: We started with WordPress for simplicity and plan to develop a custom platform in the future.
What about financial challenges?
David: Initial investor pitches were tough, but we received feedback that helped us refine our approach. Building a software company is expensive, but we’re making progress.
Gavin: We rely heavily on technology and took an SBA loan to advance a new vertical.
What risks have you taken, and what have you learned?
Gavin: Starting a consulting business in college was a risk that paved the way for FoodSafePal.
David: Investing $25k each with my brother was significant, but it felt worthwhile given our belief in the project.
What advice would you give to those considering a tech startup?
David: Design your software thoroughly before development to address potential issues.
Gavin: Focus on one primary goal and fully commit to it.
How do you determine marketing strategies?
Gavin: TikTok and Instagram have been effective for us. Video content on these platforms has driven significant business.
David: We are still exploring marketing options, focusing on cold calls and seeking wholesale dealers.
INVITE
Join us for one of the best monthly entrepreneurial gatherings in Sioux Falls. Reserve your free seat at our next Startup Sunrise – Ecommerce Founders, scheduled for September 4, from 8-9:15 am.
Nate B: “This event combines business and ideas. It’s a low-barrier entry point where people share information and resources. I met 3-5 new people just this morning, which doesn’t happen as often anymore. I was surprised at how many new residents came eager to get involved and meet people.”
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Sponsors:
We’d like to thank our Builder Level Sponsors for making this event possible: Boyce Law Firm, Bruce Watley (USF Entrepreneurial Studies Program), Eide Bailly, First Bank & Trust, First National Bank in Sioux Falls, First PREMIER Bank, Homegrown Capital, MarketBeat, Midwest Employee Benefits, Sanford Health Plan, SDSU Ness School of Management & Economics, Tiger29, Voyage Federal Credit Union