Founder Stories: Kelsey Stine, Vela Creative Co.

When you talk to Kelsey Stine, founder of Vela Creative Co., her passion is clear. Passion for her clients, her team, and the kind of business she’s building. Rooted in purpose and growing with intention, her entrepreneurial journey is all about creating impact and balance.

With support from the SD CEO West Women’s Business Center, hosted at Black Hills State University, Kelsey tapped into the resources and relationships she needed to grow, including funding from Stearns Bank.

Now leading a team of four, she’s not just running a business. She’s creating the supportive, values-driven culture she always envisioned.

Becoming a Founder

“In the beginning I was offering super low-cost services, figuring it out as I went,” she laughs. Like many first-time founders, she learned on the job, discovering not just what she could offer, but how she wanted to work.

One thing was non-negotiable: she wanted to build a business where people could thrive, not burn out. “Happy people do great work,” she says. “That starts with boundaries and a business that fits into your life—not the other way around.”

Within a year of starting her business, Kelsey had landed her first major client and hired her first employee. Drawing from her nonprofit background, she carved out a niche in creative marketing, offering branding, websites, social media strategy, and design.

Her favorite metaphor? Giving businesses a “new wardrobe for confidence.” That spirit still guides her work today, along with a strong focus on meaningful work, an anti-burnout mindset, and holistic growth.

Connecting with a Women’s Business Center

As a BHSU alum, Kelsey had stayed loosely connected to the SD CEO West WBC, attending events while growing her then accessibility consulting side project, Accessible Black Hills.

But in 2024, after diving into personal development and money mindset work, she felt ready to grow and reached out for support.

That same year, she was nominated for the BHSU Entrepreneur of Excellence Award—a moment that quieted her imposter syndrome and deepened her connection to the WBC.

“The Women’s Business Center has allowed me to feel supported through growth,” she says. “If I hadn’t reached out, I’d probably still be figuring it all out alone—and possibly in a tough financial spot with the wrong banking partner.”

Getting Funding with Stearns Bank

With guidance from the WBC, Kelsey explored capital options and was connected with Stearns Bank, where she secured an SBA loan.

“It was a dream scenario,” she says. “They stayed late to answer my questions, helped me think through what I needed, and really walked alongside me.”

Within a month, her funding was in place—allowing her to hire an operations manager and focus on strategic growth. She still banks with Stearns today and values their ongoing support.

Throughout the process, the WBC remained a steady source of encouragement. “They’ve built a real ecosystem of connection,” Kelsey says. “That community helps you keep going.”

Prioritizing Team and Culture

What is she proudest of? Her team.

Vela Creative Co. is now four women strong. “It’s a powerhouse group,” she says. “We’re honest, we support each other, and we genuinely care.”

That culture isn’t accidental. It’s something Kelsey has cultivated intentionally. “Our clients feel the difference when they’re supported by a team that’s supported too. Strong foundations ripple outward.”

How to Work with Vela Creative Co.

Vela Creative Co. is currently focused on helping clients define and elevate their brand identity.

Current offerings include:

• Brand strategy + design
• Accessible website design
• Creative marketing

Launching this fall is a done-with-you model, on branding and with mindset and routine-building support.

Also coming this fall: the return of Kelsey’s podcast, diving into business, balance, and personal growth. Follow along on Instagram or LinkedIn, or visit velacreativeco.com to learn more.

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Founders, Take Your Next Step

Connect with a Women’s Business Center near you for coaching, support, and community to help your business thrive. 

Ready to grow with funding? The Hope2Women Funding Center can link you to lenders like Stearns Bank and guide you through the process. Take our quick one-minute funding assessment to learn your best next step.