In the recent episode of the Iowa Tech Podcast, host Kaylee Williams interviews Levi Cermak, Vice President of Revenue at Elevator, a new co-warehousing space in Des Moines, Iowa. Levi shares his background, which includes experience at the University of Nebraska at Omaha’s entrepreneurship center and involvement with the Maverick Venture Fund, which led him to join Elevator.
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Elevator, co-founded by Shannon and Emiliano Lerda, addresses the challenges faced by small businesses dealing with physical goods. This concept emerged from the founders’ own experience of running a rapidly expanding pet supply business from their home. Realizing the need for a better work-life separation and scalable business solutions, they initiated Elevator to provide flexible warehousing and coworking spaces without the long-term lease commitments typically required for traditional warehousing.
Levi explains that about 70% of Elevator’s members are e-commerce companies, while the rest include service providers like lawyers and marketing teams. The emphasis is on building a supportive community where entrepreneurs can network, learn, and grow together. This approach is part of Elevator’s mission to elevate small businesses and communities, ensuring that members benefit from both logistical support and a vibrant, collaborative environment.
Elevator is expanding to Des Moines and Kansas City, with Des Moines chosen due to its thriving small business community and supportive ecosystem. Levi highlights the importance of integrating into the local entrepreneurial scene, collaborating with other coworking spaces, and offering month-to-month terms to reduce entry barriers for businesses. With plans to open in April, Elevator promises to be a valuable resource for small business owners seeking a dynamic and supportive space to grow their ventures.