How to Roll Out Your Business on Wheels
9:30-10:30
Sean Moore- The Denver Cupcake Truck
Sean Moore is a Metro State Alumni, graduating in 1999 with a degree in Marketing. He entered the work force in the field of construction/remodel/repair as a sales representative, later being elevated to field sales manager. As economic challenges presented themselves and the construction industry was negatively affected - a swift career change was required. Sean decided to join his wife Denon to market and build ‘Cake Crumbs,’ the family business – but in a mobile way! On April 15, 2010 the Denver Cupcake Truck hit the streets and has become one of the most loved mobile food trucks in Denver. Sean now oversees operations at cake Crumbs and operates his beloved “Clementine” when he is on the streets selling cupcakes.
Jim Pittenger- Biker Jim's Gourmet Hot Dogs
Biker Jim started his career repossessing automobiles part time as he studied Journalism at C.U. in Boulder. He continued “stealing cars” for a living for 14 years (10-12,000 cars later) but noted that people for some reason were not happy to meet him! Jim considered a cheesecake business because he makes really good cheesecake, but ultimately was given some invaluable tips on starting a hot dog cart by a buddy M.A. who was a hot dog guy in Anchorage. Jim says he was lucky to find a great spot in Skyline Park and he knew some people who made some really good sausages. His menu boasts Alaskan Reindeer Sausage, Elk Jalapeno Cheddar Brats, Southwest Buffalo, Wild Boar Sausage, German Veal Brat, Louisiana Red Hot and the All-American, All-Beef Kosher Hot dog. The rest is history. Now you can get the dogs and the cheesecake. Biker Jim’s Gourmet Hot Dogs is a Denver favorite. Visit http://www.bikerjimsdogs.com for more details.
Casey Bobay- Mile High Pedicab
Casey Bobay started Mile High Pedicabs in conjunction with Denver Outdoor Media. He’s been in business since 1992 and has become an integral part of life in the downtown Denver area. Casey Bobay and Chuck Henry started the company with just 5 cabs and have expanded to a fleet of over 40 with a solid crew of friendly, knowledgeable riders. Look for their pedicabs rolling around the 16th street mall, Invesco Field, the Pepsi Center, Coors Field, Denver Performing Arts Complex, The Colorado Convention Center, and all other downtown venues.
Visit http://www.milehighpedicabs.com/ for more details. Casey is also a Metro State Alum
Are You a Social Entrepreneur? Innovation for Social Change
11:00-12:00
Rebeccas Saltman- In the Door Productions
Rebecca Saltman has been working in public relations, cause marketing and collaboration-building for 20 years. Often described as an “agent for change,” Rebecca’s long history of accomplishments include the turnaround of chaotic and struggling operations, the creation and launch of new educational and operational programs, and the expansion of mature, established business endeavors.
As the Denver Change Leader of Ashoka’s Change your City initiative, Rebecca was key in shaping local and national strategy with a focus on pilot efforts in Denver. The City of Denver and Ashoka created Change Your City Denver, an initiative to establish Denver as the hub for social innovation in the United States. Rebecca has worked with hundreds of for ~ and non-profits and the businesses, agencies and academic institutions that support them. Rebecca is the CEO of Foot in the Door Productions and currently teaches Social Entrepreneurship through The Center for Innovation at Metropolitan State College of Denver
Do What You Love, Graffiti Artists Turned Artrepreneurs
12:30-1:30
From a very young age, Ratha Sok was attracted to developing and managing a successful business. As a result, we find an entrepreneur who is not afraid to take those seemingly impossible leaps in his career. As the Executive director of 2Kool, he is able to combine his artistry with a set of marketing and interpersonal skills that makes 2Kool an asset to the community at large.
2Kool was born in the dark alleys of Denver, Colorado, cradled by the cool brick walls and nourished only by the hissing of spray cans. Thus, Ratha understands what it means to be proud of his art while constantly looking over his shoulder. After being apprehended by the powers that be, for tagging, Ratha decided to transform himself and develop a team of people who understands the concept that youth will express themselves despite the consequences. This idea was transformed into 2Kool the same way that water turns into ice—by a release of energy in the form of creativity and the desire to share it.