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As we honor Women’s History Month, we celebrate the remarkable contributions of NFTE Midwest & National Advisory Board Member Maxine Clark—entrepreneur, philanthropist, and champion for youth entrepreneurship. Best known as the Founder of Build-A-Bear Workshop®, Maxine has left an indelible mark on both the business world and the communities she serves.

A Legacy of Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Maxine Clark revolutionized the retail industry with Build-A-Bear Workshop, creating an immersive, interactive experience that has delighted millions worldwide. Since its founding in 1997, Build-A-Bear has sold over 250 million stuffed animals across nearly 500 stores globally. By 2004, the company had gone public on the New York Stock Exchange, cementing its place as a beloved brand.

A Champion for NFTE

Maxine’s journey with NFTE began when she served as a keynote speaker at a summer business camp in St. Louis in 2012. Inspired by the students’ entrepreneurial spirit, she spearheaded efforts to bring NFTE’s full program offerings to the region. Her generous support and mentoring have helped countless young entrepreneurs turn their dreams into reality. Maxine served as NFTE’s first board member in St. Louis, helped us raise significant funding from corporations, foundations, and individuals, and made introductions to school district and community leaders across the city. Maxine continues to give generously of her time as a keynote speaker to our young people. In 2023, NFTE recognized her with the Entrepreneurial Leadership Award for outstanding entrepreneurial achievements and dedication to NFTE’s mission.

The Impact of NFTE in St. Louis

With Maxine’s support, NFTE’s presence in St. Louis has flourished:

  • 9,000 students reached since 2012.
  • St. Louis alumnus Josh Krueger won NFTE’s National Youth Entrepreneurship Challenge in 2022.
  • A new Tech Entrepreneurship BizCamp was piloted at the St. Louis Science Center.
  • NFTE received a proclamation from the St. Louis Mayor’s office recognizing Youth Entrepreneurship Day 2024.

The Power of Imagination and Innovation

Maxine’s journey demonstrates that entrepreneurship knows no age limits. She founded Build-A-Bear at 48 and was inducted into the Toy Hall of Fame in 2025, proving that inspiration can strike at any time. She attributes her success to the bold ideas of young people—like her friend Katie, whose offhand comment about making stuffed animals sparked the vision for Build-A-Bear.

Maxine’s favorite quote encapsulates her philosophy: “If you can live your imagination, your life will be a dream come true.” Through her work with NFTE and beyond, she continues to inspire the next generation of entrepreneurs to dream, create, and lead.