Brienne Maner

Brienne Maner is a dedicated community advocate deeply rooted in her hometown of Sioux Falls, SD. With nearly two decades of experience in nonprofit leadership, Brienne has demonstrated her commitment to driving positive change and empowering others.

For the past six years, Brienne has served as the Director & President of Startup Sioux Falls, where she has led the organization through significant transformation, aligning its mission, vision, and physical presence to better serve the startup community. Under her leadership, Startup Sioux Falls has become a cornerstone for founders and startups, providing essential resources for networking, launching, and scaling ventures.

One of Brienne's most notable professional achievements occurred in 2021, when Startup Sioux Falls was selected as one of only 51 organizations nationwide to receive $1M as part of the SBA Community Navigator grant pilot program. Through her strategic stewardship of these funds, Brienne has spearheaded initiatives to support underserved communities across the state, including Indigenous South Dakotans, women, veterans, New Americans, and immigrants. Her and her team’s efforts have resulted in nearly 4,000 counseling hours and the training of over 400 clients in two years.

In addition to her role at Startup Sioux Falls, Brienne has held leadership positions in prominent non-profit organizations such as the Sioux Falls Jazz & Blues Society and Downtown Sioux Falls, Inc. (DTSF). Committed to making a difference beyond the boardroom, Brienne actively participates in grassroots initiatives, including an annual hygiene product donation drive for area homeless shelters. She is also a dedicated member of the International Economic Development Council (IEDC), Downtown Rotary Club, several area university entrepreneurial advisory boards, mentors women through EmBe, and recently served on a City of Sioux Falls advisory board, contributing her expertise to shape the Downtown 2035 Plan and development of the downtown area.

Outside of her professional endeavors, Brienne prioritizes her roles as a wife and mother, striving to lead by example for her young daughter. She is passionate about mentoring women and young professionals in her community, fostering a culture of growth and empowerment.

Brienne Maner epitomizes professionalism, dedication, and compassion in her commitment to serving Sioux Falls and beyond.