Angie Yahne Named Executive Director of StartUp Watertown to Support Northeast South Dakota Entrepreneurs
Northeast Radio SD News – Watertown, SD - StartUp Watertown has announced that Angie Yahne has officially stepped into the role of Executive Director as of September 1, bringing a blend of entrepreneurial experience, economic development leadership, and deep community ties to the organization’s growing regional mission.
Yahne previously served nearly three years as Watertown’s Director of Economic Development Project Management, where she led major initiatives supporting business expansion, workforce development, and long‑term community advancement. Alongside her public‑sector work, she is a multi‑unit franchise owner of Tropical Smoothie Cafe locations in Watertown and Aberdeen, with a third opening soon in Sioux Falls and additional stores planned.
Her dual background gives her what StartUp Watertown leaders describe as a rare, firsthand understanding of the challenges facing new and growing businesses.
“Entrepreneurship changed my life, and I want others to experience that same sense of possibility,” Yahne said. “Watertown is full of people with ideas that can shape our future, and StartUp Watertown exists to help those ideas grow. I’m honored to lead this work and excited to build an ecosystem where entrepreneurs feel supported from day one.”
City and Regional Leaders Praise the Appointment
Watertown City Manager Alan Stager said Yahne’s combination of economic development expertise and real‑world business ownership “makes her an exceptional leader for StartUp Watertown” and will be a major asset to the community.
Chris Clifton, Executive Director of the Watertown Development Company, emphasized the broader economic importance of the organization’s mission.
“A thriving startup community is essential to a resilient economy,” Clifton said. “By helping entrepreneurs launch, grow, and remain in the Watertown trade area, we create jobs, retain talent, encourage innovation, and advance long‑term economic vitality.”
Support also comes from the Mother of God Monastery, a founding partner of StartUp Watertown. COO and Co‑Founder Michael Klatt said Yahne brings “energy, clarity, and a strong sense of purpose,” while Prioress Barb Younger added that her leadership ensures the mission moves forward “with strength, compassion, and vision.”
About Angie Yahne
Yahne lives in Watertown with her fiancé, Russell Warner, owner of East River Contracting, and is the mother of Ashlynn, an energetic eight‑year‑old hockey player with the Watertown Lakers. Outside of work, she enjoys time on Lake Kampeska and being with friends and family.
About StartUp Watertown
StartUp Watertown serves entrepreneurs across northeastern South Dakota, offering business coaching, training, mentorship, ecosystem development, and connections to resources that help founders launch and grow successful companies. The organization is currently seeking three additional board members with backgrounds in business, finance, community development, or entrepreneurship.
Entrepreneurs exploring new ideas or seeking support for existing businesses are encouraged to contact StartUp Watertown Executive Director Angie Yahne at angie@startupwatertown.com or 605‑999‑6590.
