Blog

Name: Sean Pennino
Hometown: Rochester, NY

University: University of Notre Dame ’11, Brown University ‘12

Business Development, Teespring
Providence, RI
 
What initially attracted you to Venture for America?
VFA seemed liked the best way to get the startup experience without compromising job security or personal finances, the normal risks faced by entrepreneurs.  I also loved the prospect of being sent to a city where I can make a difference.
What is the best part of being a VFA fellow?
Knowing that whenever other fellows are killing it, it makes me look better.
What does Teespring  do?
Think Kickstarter meets Custom Ink.  Meets awesome.  Teespring will someday be a place where you can crowdfund anything, but right now you can use our site to crowdfund custom apparel.  The benefit over Kickstarter is that we actually make and distribute the product, instead of just giving you the money raised.  Bring us an idea and supporters and we’ll do the rest.
What do you do on a typical day at work?
I wear many hats and I wouldn’t have it any other way.  I spend most of the day generating leads and working with current clients, but I have done anything from writing code that increases the sales team’s efficiency to graphic design.  I’ve also recently gotten into SEM.
What’s your favorite thing about Providence?:
Providence has the culture of a big city and the comforts of a small town.  It’s a very affordable city with plenty to do year-round.
What do you hope to accomplish in your time with VFA?
I’d like to bring Teespring to global dominance and create at least 1000 new jobs in Providence.  I should also make sure to meet the love of my life before then so I know she’s not just into my fame.