Tulsa is quickly becoming a destination for young entrepreneurs.
Many look to set up shop in the blossoming downtown districts.
Where do we grow from here?
To understand the future, it's best to revisit the past. Soundpony Bar is a perfect example of success.
Ten years ago this week they opened their doors downtown, a move considered risky at the time.
“We were young foolish guys wanting to get into the bar game.”
Josh Gifford and Mike Wozniak opened Soundpony in 2006 at a time when the Brady Arts District was mostly empty buildings, aching for a facelift.
“It used to be like a zombie town,” Gifford said.
Over a decade, the district grew around them. These friends and business partners stayed true their vision, breathing new life into Tulsa's music scene and developing a strong base of regulars.
“It honestly gives me chills thinking about all the people that love this place so much.”
Taking notes on Soundpony's success are the budding entrepreneurs at 36 Degrees North.
“We are a startup for startups.”
It opened three months ago. One hundred business hopefuls are now using this center as their base camp.
“We are doubling in size this year, expanding to Dallas and Newport Beach California,” Josh Fowler said.
Josh Fowler helps run the small eyewear company Black Optical, picking Tulsa for it's cheap cost of living and creative environment.
“New people are moving here because it's a small growing town,” Fowler said.
New technology is also opening the door to a global market, helping spark an entrepreneurship renaissance in Tulsa.
“It's never been easier to get started.”
Glowing optimism, a staple in Soundpony's success. The owners offering some advice on their birthday.
“You got to let the dream be alive more than anything, just keep dreaming about it,” Gifford said.
Soundpony also says community service plays a role in their business.
For years, they've been a mainstay in Tulsa's cycling events. They even run a school bike program.
