StageWorks is a collaborative hub for emerging entrepreneurs, startups, small businesses, and nonprofits working together to strengthen the Greater St. Cloud ecosystem. Located in the heart of downtown, StageWorks offers more than just office space — it’s a springboard for ideas and innovation.
“We provide free programming for businesses at every stage, host our bi-weekly Start.up Connect networking events, and offer a flexible pop-up shop experience where entrepreneurs can test out a downtown storefront with daily, weekend, or recurring rentals,” explained Jennie Weber, Operations & Program Coordinator. “With private offices, cubicles, and hot desks available, StageWorks is intentionally designed to foster connection, creativity, and community.”
Born and raised in St. Cloud, Jennie joined the Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation in April 2024 as the Program and Administrative Specialist. “In March, I transitioned into the role of Operations and Program Coordinator, where I focus on expanding our Thrive MN program and leading the launch of StageWorks. The GSDC President and CEO, NeTia Bauman, was the driving force behind bringing this business hub to our community as an initiative to grow our regional entrepreneur and startup ecosystem,” said Jennie.
“The most exciting part to me is when we host our bi-weekly events of Start.up Connect and I see someone I haven't seen at the events before. This ecosystem is a fiercely strong yet supportive group that ranges from startups to resource providers to partners. I truly feel that when people leave StageWorks, for whatever the event or meeting is, they walk away knowing they have support.”
“We continue to see StageWorks grow, but are always looking for more people to share their entrepreneur stories, resource providers to attend, and meet this ecosystem. My goal is to have the Davidson Opera House not be a hidden gem any longer - I want people to walk in the first time and get the "ooo and awwwws" of the space, but then I want it to be a regular destination for them - plus they invite more people to join us!”
StageWorks, supported by the GSDC (Greater St. Cloud Development Corporation), has an imperative connection with the community, and collaboration is the foundation of the program. “Aside from the GDSC, we get support from ILT Academy, who hosts Start.up Connect events, Kinder Coffee Lab is our coffee sponsor, Arvig provides high-speed fiber internet, Brian Schoenborn is the owner of the building and one of our biggest champions … we’re grateful to have too many people to mention as our supporters. I have never experienced a community that is so willing to help others start, grow, and expand. It's inspiring to experience how fast it all snowballs and how many opportunities and resources are out there to support this community.”
So, how can you get involved? It’s easy-peasy. “Just show up! Nick Tietz has been a huge catalyst in getting this off the ground and keeping it successful – he’s made it so easy for anyone to join. Our bi-weekly Start.up Connect events are the 1st and 3rd Wednesdays of the month from 8:00am-9:15am (with the exception of July 4th week). If we can get people into the space, meeting others, they will feel and see the benefits. When there is a business in the pop-up shop, we always appreciate those who show up and support. If they can't attend, we’d love it if you could help us spread the news on social media. We’d love your help in multiplying people and opportunities; when you join us, we encourage you to bring friends, family, coworkers, colleagues or fellow business owners.”
StageWorks was recently featured on KSTP and is excited to continue to grow the entrepreneur ecosystem in our communities. Check them out, spread the word, and get involved!
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