Maxine Clark: A Revolutionary Entrepreneur

Honoring Innovation in St. Louis

Maxine Clark, a St. Louis native and the visionary founder of Build-A-Bear Workshop, stands as a powerful example of entrepreneurial success and innovation. In October 1997, she opened the first Build-A-Bear Workshop at the Saint Louis Galleria Mall, pioneering the concept of experiential retail. Her unique approach to high-touch service has propelled the company to over 525 locations worldwide, making it a global leader in its field.

However, Clark’s path to entrepreneurial success was not always clear-cut. After graduating, she began her career in retail and spent 19 years honing her skills, ultimately rising to the position of president at Payless ShoeSource. Yet, despite her achievements, Clark realized that her true passion lay in entrepreneurship. A pivotal moment came during a shopping trip with a friend’s young daughter, when she envisioned a store where customers could create their own customizable stuffed animals. This idea sparked the creation of Build-A-Bear, a company that would redefine the retail experience.

In 2006, Clark published The Bear Necessities of Business: Building a Company with Heart, a book that shares her entrepreneurial insights and experiences. The book covers vital topics such as starting a business, leadership, customer engagement, marketing strategies, scaling operations, and the importance of giving back—a theme that has been central to Clark’s career.

Now retired and holding the honorary title of Chief Executive Bear, Clark remains deeply committed to her passions for children and innovation. She dedicates much of her time to improving K-12 public education and empowering and investing in women and minority entrepreneurs. In 2015, she launched Blueprint4.com, a free app designed to connect families with academic and summer programs. Additionally, she is a managing partner at Prosper Women’s Capital, a fund focused on investing in women-owned businesses in St. Louis.

Clark’s most recent project, the Delmar DivINe, exemplifies her commitment to community development. In 2021, she led the transformation of an old building into a dynamic, mixed-use real estate development that serves as a hub for social innovation. Beyond her ventures, Clark remains active in giving back through the Clark-Fox Family Foundation, which she co-founded with her husband, Bob Fox.

Maxine Clark’s legacy serves as a testament to the power of innovation, dedication, and community-driven entrepreneurship. Her work continues to inspire future generations of women trailblazers, especially in St. Louis, where her impact is felt in both the business world and beyond.