Creative Connection’s 20th Anniversary: CEO Curt Olejnicak’s Legacy story

For 20 years, Curt Olejnicak and his team at Creative Connection have been dedicated to helping clients find their target audiences and increase their profits. Since the beginning, Curt has had a passion for helping people and making a difference in the world. 

In 1990, Curt attended and graduated from Hennepin County Technical College with a degree in commercial art. During this time, Curt began developing a passion for technology and marketing. He said, “(after working) I spent my nights teaching myself how to use a computer at Kinkos because computer courses weren’t easily accessible yet.” Even after college, Curt continued his education through business specific courses and seminars. 

For several years, Curt worked at multiple Twin Cities creative agencies in various creative and management positions. But soon, he was drawn into the world of entrepreneurship. He said, “For awhile, I worked in the agency world and from 7am to 5 or 6 pm, I was giving away my ideas and talents at a rock bottom discount. I realized that as an entrepreneur, I could work fewer hours and make a bigger impact (and more money) which would allow me to spend more time with my family and friends.” For Curt, entrepreneurship opened the door to a whole new world of possibilities. 

In the midst of starting his career, Curt also started a family. He and his wife Rose married in 1996, and their daughter Madi was born in 2001. When his daughter was born, Curt knew he didn’t want to return to the agency world. His heart’s desire was to spend as much time with his family as possible, and watch his daughter grow up. 

In 2003, he branched out from the agency world of marketing and began his own marketing company, Creative Connection. Curt said, “Being an entrepreneur was exhilarating and uncertain. It was great to be able to have my own schedule, so I could have the flexibility in helping others.” Over the course of the next several years, Curt began amassing a wide portfolio of experience from all types of clients. From St. Francis Hospital, to The Billy Graham Evangelical Association, Curt jumped into marketing projects eager to problem solve, and create success for his clients. 

The importance of family has always been, and will always be at the heart of Creative Connection. Curt said, “Family always comes first, but at the same time business provides for the family. Over the last two decades our team at Creative Connection has learned how to navigate this territory together.” 

Mission statement: At Creative Connection, Our Mission Is To Serve Businesses Through Strategic Marketing And Digital Media Solutions In Order To Increase Efficiency And Drive Profits. Our Heart Is Making A Difference In The World And Giving Back To Those In Need.