Innovate® Washington DMV Ebook Proof

PREVIEWIMAGE

The “Washington DMV” Team would like to give a special thanks to all the participants and the following companies for their support and assistance in making this project a reality.

Meet the people that are building a better WASHINGTON DMV for tomorrow

INNOVATE® WASHINGTON –DMV EDITION: A GATEWAY TO TOMORROW’S WORLD” SVEN BOERMEESTER - FOUNDER/CEO, INTERNATIONAL GROUP PUBLISHER

INNOVATE® Washington – DMV Edition serves as a comprehensive showcase of the most distinguished minds and innovative leaders within the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia ecosystem. This publication leverages cutting-edge technology to offer readers an immersive experience. The GLOBAL VILLAGE APP allows readers to access augmented reality features embedded within the pages, presenting advanced innovations in an interactive format.

However, INNOVATE® Washington – DMV Edition extends beyond a traditional hardcover publication. It represents a fully integrated experience, merging physical and digital realms. The hardcover edition is complemented by AR-powered videos, a robust online platform, and expansive social media networks, allowing for a wide-reaching digital presence. Through

the InnovationsoftheWorld.com online library, the e-book edition holds the potential to reach a global audience in the millions.

While this edition celebrates the innovation and entrepreneurial spirit of the DMV region, its purpose transcends regional boundaries. It serves as a valuable resource for business leaders and decision-makers throughout Washington, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, and beyond, providing insights into the transformative changes shaping the future of the DMV ecosystem.

This inaugural edition of INNOVATE® Washington – DMV Edition is part of a broader global initiative, with volumes being launched in cities worldwide through the globalvillagepublishinginc.com network. Readers of INNOVATE® Washington – DMV Edition

become part of a worldwide community of innovators, leaders, and disruptors, committed to driving progress and shaping the future.

We are pleased to welcome you to our Global Village network, and trust that you will find value in this edition as part of your journey through the INNOVATE® series

Sven Boermeester Founder/CEO International Group Publisher

Sven Boermeester - Founder/CEO, International Group Publisher with Callie Van Graan - President, Global Village Publishing Inc.

Evan Rothman Editor & Writer

Tamlyn Bischofberger Global Village COO

Susan Heiman Art Direction & Design

Dustin Canter Co-Publishing Partner

Daniel Esterhuyse Co-Publishing Partner

DUSTIN CANTER

SEC. 1001. [20 U.S.C. 6301] STATEMENT OF PURPOSE of ‘Title I: Improving the Academic Achievement of the Disadvantaged’ reads as follows: “The purpose of this title is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and highquality education, and to close educational achievement gaps.”

I propose the word educational be replaced with financial in the statement of purpose for Title I.

I am Dustin ‘DC’ Canter, a volunteer community organizer for Midtown Youth Academy in Washington, D.C.

I believe that after reading this foreword, you will feel inspired to reach out and amplify the voice of at least one young person from a financially disadvantaged background. We Washingtonians are a special breed, and it’s about time this exceptional community book project comes to the DMV! The great Tom Brokaw once said, “It’s easy to make a buck. It’s a lot tougher to make a difference,” it is apt in this instance, too.

known as “MYA”) and a phone booth-sized boxing ring in the back. For nearly half a century, he turned little knuckleheads into men with missions in life.

Now, in my ninth year as a community organizer for MYA, I am responsible for connecting resources to support youth and pursuing opportunities that have the potential to create generational change.

Mr. Gene, or as I like to reminisce of him as ‘Mr. Gene-ius,’ had a golden strategy that required youth to hit the books before they could throw punches.

Discovering Innovation

And so, the next campaign began - politics aside.

Disrupting the Status Quo

When I took on this community book project, I saw it as an excellent opportunity to connect successful innovators with lowincome students. Why can’t a Title 1 student be your next paid apprentice or the next entrepreneur you invest in? I’ve taught youth entrepreneurship throughout the DMV and seen resourceful youth from Title 1 communities outperform others when given financial opportunities.

Providing Access to Opportunities

I’m investing in the future of Midtown Youth Academy, providing access to professional equipment for youth to learn skills.

Innovation is for Everyone DRAFT

In Dedication: Mr. Gene-ius

This book is dedicated to the late Mr. Eugene “Thunder” Hughes and the lost boys who roam the streets without a father figure.

Fondly known as Mr. Gene, he built a safe haven for youth with a library of books upon entering Midtown Youth Academy (also

In 2022, while attending a blockchain conference in Florida, I discovered the INNOVATE series and its mission to map the planet’s innovation ecosystem. They had community book projects in over 50 locations, including Miami, Philadelphia, Antwerp, Dubai, and South Africa. But guess what was missing?

I learned that the INNOVATE® Series typically partners with a local organization to launch each community book project. Although I didn’t fit their typical partner profile, I delivered my best pitch.

My pitch was: “The book should focus on the DMV. I ran a grassroots independent campaign for Mayor of Washington, D.C., and received 15,478 votes. already march to the drumbeat that ‘Innovation is for Everyone.’ I’m a lifelong entrepreneur and a fourth-generation Washingtonian.”

What if you made your next hire based on potential rather than a resume or background? You could host a live competition where applicants learn a skill within an hour and then test them against one another. The skill would be something they’d use weekly during their first few months at your company.

I’d bet you’d hire more people from Title 1 communities. If you need help developing a test, let me know, or read my Thought Leader profile about my work with FastestKid.org.

Rethinking Opportunities

How often does a Tysons Corner, Virginia company recruit talent from District Heights, Maryland? Not nearly enough. But they should.

How often does a Bethesda, Maryland company recruit talent from Southeast D.C.? Not nearly enough. But they should.

the new shelf and help create communications to invite the community to fill the bookshelf with great skill-building books for youth.

I’m taking my profits and investing back into my community, where my family has done business for nearly a century. I encourage you to join this effort, join the 100-plus innovation teams in this book, and answer the question: “What’s your message?”

We are the DMV. This is the beginning of a new day. A new era where innovation teams from the affluent pockets of our region ensure that the pocketbooks of youth are full of money.

From College Park to Rosslyn, Anacostia to Georgetown, Rockville to Alexandria, the DMV and I need your help. Let’s drive this initiative.

What I’d like to amplify: Title 1: Fastest Kid on the Block.chain

Challenge your opponent. I’m a bit of a knucklehead myself, and yes, I’m calling you out. You better get to MYA for a podcast interview with a youth, or else you’ll have a fight on your hands. I’ll give you two years to do it. To make it easier, if you can’t make it in person, we can schedule a remote recording, but you’ll need to donate since you didn’t show up in person. Don’t worry; it’s a 501(c)(3) taxdeductible donation.

Venture Philanthropy

The book can potentially create a generational change for Title 1 students throughout the Greater Washington Metropolitan Area. It’s a tremendous opportunity to connect Title 1 students with thriving teams building the innovations of tomorrow.

I envisioned this book as one I’d present to Mr. Gene and leave a few copies on his MYA bookshelves if I had been alive and an adult back in the day. With that in mind, I see this community book project as an opportunity to build bookshelves and place them throughout the DMV, perhaps inside boxing gyms. Before reaching ten gyms, let’s start with one.

I’d like to offer to pay for the raw materials, help coordinate the necessary professional safety oversight, and help organize a bookshelfbuilding day. One new bookshelf for MYA. I’ll place a few copies of the INNOVATE book on

The publisher, Innovations of the World, reserves space at the front of the book for the local co-publisher (myself) to share their story. I want to write a story about Title I youth. I’d like you all to contribute to writing the story and include a QR code that links to MYA’s website.

With this book, you - the one reading right now - have the potential to change the course of life for local youths. How? Email Boxing@ MidtownYouthAcademy.org or call 202-6005940 to schedule your podcast interview.

Call-to-Action

Let’s be the innovators we are and take action based on knowledge and wisdom. This book is just the beginning. You are part of the 100plus thought leaders and innovation teams from across the DMV together in Volume 1 for INNOVATE Washington - DMV Edition.

Together, we’re embarking on the next leg in the journey for our community book project. We’re creating a podcast to connect financial opportunities to Title 1 students across the National Capital Region. Employment opportunities. Investment opportunities. We know that we can count on you to speak up. We know you’ll rise to the occasion. Text/Call me at 202-670-1615 or email DC@DustinCanter. com to set up a time for you to record your podcast hosted by a Title 1 student near you.

You are part of the greater good, and the DMV is ready to close gaps in financial achievement.

Revising Title I for today and tomorrow

We should revise Title I’s Statement of Purpose. This is how I envision it: “The purpose of this title is to provide all children significant opportunity to receive a fair, equitable, and high-quality education, and to close financial achievement gaps.”

A Balance in the Community, Dustin ‘DC’ Canter a.k.a. Mayor of the Mic

Oxon Hill Boxing Club [Curriculum - QR Code to BizKid$]

Thomas Jefferson Middle School

Edmund Burke School

Ballou High School

Howard University Middle School [Curriculum - QR Code to Fastest Kid on the Blockchain]

TO ALL OF OUR DMV INNOVATORS AND DREAMERS!

Government and politics: two pillars that have long been synonymous with the identity of the capital region. While these will always remain cornerstones of the DMV, a new pillar is emerging – that of a global innovation hub for startups, emerging tech, and social impact–and DC Startup Week is excited to double down.

With the collective work of ecosystem builders, economic development centers, accelerators, incubators, investors, incredible founders, CEOs, and innovators – our region is starting to be recognized worldwide for businesses redefining industries, founders tackling global challenges, and innovators pushing boundaries.

That’s why DC Startup Week is expanding and this collaboration with INNOVATE was born. The highcaliber innovation occurring in this region inspired us to create this book, aiming to start a movement that tells our region’s innovation story in a bigger way.

In these pages, we highlight over 100 emerging and legendary innovators, thought leaders, and the ecosystem partners dedicated to supporting these innovations–where together we are transforming our region into the innovative capital of the world. Every two years, we will continue to recognize more innovators to showcase the growth and ongoing progress of innovation here.

The DMV has become a place where big ideas are born over coffee in Dupont Circle, in co-working spaces in Bethesda, and in Arlington garages all launching world-changing startups. These are the individuals you might encounter at a food truck, only to discover they’re revolutionizing AI, sparking the next tech revolution, leading breakthroughs in sustainable energy, developing cutting-edge medical devices, or creating innovative culinary experiences.

Now in our ninth year, DC Startup Week has evolved to a massive celebration of entrepreneurship, connecting over 15,500 founders, innovators, and

investors throughout each year. We’ve witnessed it all - from nervous first-time entrepreneurs pitching ideas to seasoned founders launching their next ventures.

This book isn’t just a bunch of success stories. It’s a peek into the heart and soul of our DMV startup scene. It’s about the late nights, the crazy ideas, the failures that led to breakthroughs, and the “aha!” moments that changed everything.

We’re not just about tech, either. Our region is unique because we’ve got this incredible mix of passionate tech innovators, social impact warriors, out-of-the-box creative thinkers, product inventors, and government and policy experts. It’s like throwing all these ingredients into a pot and coming up with a unique recipe for innovation that you can’t find anywhere else.

As you read through these pages, we hope you’ll feel the same excitement we do about what’s happening here. Maybe you’ll recognize a face or two, or discover a startup that’s working on something you’ve always dreamed about. Who knows? You might even find the inspiration to start your own venture!

This book is our way of saying, “Hey world, check out the incredible innovations and impact that is happening here in the DMV!” It’s a celebration of where we are now and a sneak peek at the awesome things to come.

So whether you’re a seasoned entrepreneur, a curious investor, or someone with a wild idea and the guts to make it happen, remember: you’re part of something big here in the DMV.

DRAFT

Let’s keep pushing boundaries, dreaming big, and showing the world what we’re made of.

Thank you for being part of this incredible community. Now let’s go make some magic happen together!

Here’s to the future of innovation and impact in the DMV.

seemaalexander

THE DMV REGION: A GROWING HUB FOR STARTUP AND TECH INNOVATION

The DMV region is a bustling hub of innovation, startups, and technology. It is home to over 6 million people and extends across three jurisdictions: the District of Columbia, the Maryland suburbs, and Northern Virginia. Each brings unique anchors that define a robust tech and innovation ecosystem.

How robust? According to industry trackers, tech job postings in Washington, D.C., outpaced even New York City in early 2024. Across many small firms and a sizable number of global companies, the region counted more than 270,000 tech industry jobs in 2023.

That’s more than triple the similarly sized Philadelphia metro area and nearly double the Atlanta region’s count. On the funding side, venture capital investment saw a much less dramatic post-pandemic drop in the DMV than the national average, per PitchBook data, with close to $5 billion invested in 2023.

factors contribute to this innovation economy strength, but the most obvious is proximity to the center of the United States government and the action on Capitol Hill.

Dozens of big-budget federal agencies, from the Pentagon to the Department of Energy, regularly contract with tech firms in the private sector. In part because of this dynamic, most of the region’s successful startups are B2B (business to business) or B2G (business to government), though there are plenty of founders with consumer-facing ideas, too.

DRAFT

With an economy that allows startups and tech giants to thrive, the DMV is called the “Silicon Valley of the East.” Each geographic zone shines in its own way.

District of Columbia: The Nation’s Center for Power and Policy

If someone from outside the region asks a founder or funder where they’re based, they’ll almost always answer “D.C.,” even if they’re in Maryland or Virginia.

“With an economy that lets startups and tech giants thrive, the DMV is called the “Silicon Valley of the East.”

Its wealth of major academic institutions amplifies the region’s catalyzing power of government funding. Public and private universities across the geographies conduct critical research, spin-out companies, and generally prime people for the innovation workforce.

Community is another strength. Recurring events like DC Tech Meetup, Upsurge, ConnectPreneur and Unstuck Tuesdays, as well as the annual DC Startup Week, foster connection and collaboration. This multi-day convening connects DMV entrepreneurs and draws attendees nationwide for tech and business-related workshops and discussions.

However, much tech and entrepreneurship activity happens within the city limits of the US capital. Startups in D.C. include firms focusing on cybersecurity, SaaS, policy-related products, consumer product goods, AI, web3, and so much more.

According to Lightcast data, software development jobs in the district have grown in the past decade, increasing by 53% between 2014 and 2023. Those workers are paid more than double the global average, per Startup Genome’s 2024 report. That study ranked D.C. as the 12th best startup ecosystem globally, surpassing all of the US besides Silicon Valley, New York City, and Boston.

Several

The district government has its own council dedicated to technology and innovation, which is under the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development. The council has published work, like the 2023 Pathways to Inclusion report, which broke down the city’s tech assets, accomplishments, and quantitative benchmarks to recommend moving toward a more equitable and robust sector and the new DC’s AI Values and Strategic Plan.

This is where national tech policy developssetting standards or implementing programs determining how employers, employees, creators, and consumers interact with emerging technologies. For example, in 2023, the Biden administration issued an executive order to establish AI safety standards throughout the public and private sectors. That same year, the Economic Development Administration launched its Regional Tech Hubs program to pump millions of dollars into developing ecosystems throughout the country.

That policymaking power brings lobbying activity. Tech companies spent over $300 million on lobbying efforts in 2023, with $74 million coming from giants Amazon, Alphabet, Meta, Apple, and Microsoft. These big tech companies aren’t just sending envoys to persuade lawmakers - they’re establishing roots, taking up a combined 791,000 square feet of city office space in 2023.

Lobbyists are also moving into the venture capital world, which has grown in D.C. In 2024, Silicon Valley powerhouse Andreessen Horowitz announced plans to set up an office in the district, and lobbying firm J.A. Green & Co. announced a partnership with local investment firm Anzu Partners to create a new $100 million fund for defense technology.

Local universities also bolster the D.C. innovation scene. Georgetown has an Entrepreneurs In Residence program where students can get one-on-one mentorship from business leaders. American University offers a graduate certificate in entrepreneurship and an incubator and other programming via its Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship and Kogod School of Business. Howard University collaborated with PNC to launch the PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship.

Several accelerators are housed in the district, including the social impact-oriented Halcyon

Incubator, Seed Spot, the disabled founderfocused 2Gether-International, the consumer packaged goods focused Union Kitchen, women and tech focused, Springboard, the government and innovation focused DCode, to name a few.

Maryland: A Major Player in Biotech, Aerospace & Quantum

Maryland has grown substantially over the past few years through innovation and the startup community’s support, specifically in the aerospace, biotechnology, pharma, and quantum computing sectors.

The section of Interstate 270 that runs from Bethesda to Gaithersburg has long been called “DNA Alley” since the Human Genome Project launched inside the National Institutes of Health headquarters. The Food and Drug Administration and the National Institute of Standards and Technology offices are also located nearby.

State-level organizations also play a significant role in boosting the Southern Maryland innovation ecosystem. The Maryland Tech Council, a major trade association, hosts an industry awards ceremony, an annual conference, and other events throughout the year. TEDCO, the Maryland Technology Development Corporation, regularly provides early-stage funding and business assistance to startups in the region.

DRAFT

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), including Morgan State, Coppin State, and Bowie State, are integral to the Maryland Innovation Extension, a $1.4 million initiative expanding entrepreneurship resources across the state. These institutions focus on serving underrepresented communities and developing new academic programs in tech-focused fields. The University of Baltimore further supports this collaborative network, contributing to the state’s innovation economy.

Together, these diverse institutions form a powerful alliance, leveraging their expertise in fields such as biotechnology, cybersecurity, and quantum computing. This synergy not only enhances research and development but also cultivates a diverse talent pool, ensuring Maryland remains at the forefront of innovation.

By offering a wide array of resources, from startup incubators to research facilities, these universities collectively drive economic growth and attract investment across the state, positioning Maryland as a formidable player in the national innovation landscape.

Private sector giants like Adobe, Raytheon, and Capital One are all present at the University of Maryland Discovery District, which also houses university startup spinouts like the quantum computing firm IonQ and federal offices, including the NOAA Center for Weather and Climate Prediction.

According to Lightcast workforce data, software development jobs in Montgomery and Prince George’s counties have grown over the past decade, increasing by more than 25% between 2014 and 2023.

Maryland’s innovation ecosystem thrives on a collaborative network of universities, each contributing unique strengths to the state’s technological and entrepreneurial landscape. While the University of Maryland (UMD) plays a significant role with its top-ranked entrepreneurship programs and vibrant innovation ecosystem, other institutions are equally vital.

Johns Hopkins University brings world-renowned research in medicine, biotechnology, and engineering, complementing UMD’s strengths. The University of Maryland, Baltimore collaborates closely with UMD through the MPowering the State program, enhancing commercialization efforts.

Virginia: A Locus for Defense Tech, Data, and Developers

Northern Virginia has developed a booming startup and innovation ecosystem ranging from defense, aerospace, cybersecurity, edtech, data centers, and more.

The Pentagon, perhaps Northern Virginia’s most visible federal agency, announces millions of dollars in contracts daily. Northrop Grumman is headquartered there, and it designs and develops missile defense and intelligence tech.

In the private sector, multinational tech giants have established a presence in Virginia. In 2018, Capital One relocated its headquarters to McLean and remains a top employer in the region. Amazon, another major employer, opened its second headquarters in Arlington in 2023.

That same year, Forbes dubbed Arlington the nation’s smartest city (D.C. came in third), with 76% of adults over 25 holding a bachelor’s degree. The same report, however, noted a significant racial attainment gap; less than 1 in 7 degree holders were people of color.

DRAFT

The Northern Virginia Tech Council is a prominent trade association connecting startup founders, Fortune 100 executives, students, nonprofit heads, and others.

Software development jobs in the region skyrocketed between 2014 and 2023, with Arlington and Loudoun counties’ numbers increasing by more than 90%. Fairfax County had over 30,000 developers in 2023, outpacing other areas in the DMV by far.

Educational institutions are key drivers of innovation in Northern Virginia. Fairfax is home to George Mason University, which operates a Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship and is known for business and technology education. The Virginia Tech Innovation Campus is slated to open in Alexandria, in the same complex as a branch of Amazon’s–which will further enhance the region’s tech education capabilities.

Perhaps most notably, Northern Virginia has emerged as a global leader in data center infrastructure. In 2024, more than 300 such facilities were active in the region, handling around 70% of the world’s internet traffic. Amazon Web Services operates more than 50 of them, and with generative AI processing increasing demands, companies like Google are investing billions in expanding their presence.

This convergence of federal agencies, tech giants, startups, educational institutions, and world-class infrastructure has positioned Northern Virginia as a powerhouse in the global innovation landscape, driving advancements across multiple sectors and attracting top talent from around the world.

Why the DMV Is The Best Place To Innovate, Incubate & Grow:

In closing, the DMV area (Washington D.C., Maryland, and Virginia) stands out as an exceptional hub for innovation for several reasons:

1. High Innovation Scores: Washington D.C. and Maryland are ranked highly for innovation, with D.C. itself scoring 76 on a 100-point scale for innovation-friendly measures [1].

2. Resilient Economy: The region typically withstands economic downturns better than many other areas, providing a stable

environment for startups and new business formations [2].

3. Dynamic Growth: The innovation economy in Washington D.C. is poised for growth, making it a welcoming place for tech firms and startups [4].

4. Supportive Community: The area has a supportive and evolving community that is conducive to innovation, providing a nurturing environment for new ideas and technologies to flourish [3].

These elements collectively make the DMV one of the best places to innovate, offering a rich blend of resources, a supportive community, and a strong economic backdrop.

Authors: Sameer Rao & Kaela Roeder

CHAPTER ONE

THOUGHT LEADERS

THIS KID OWNS THEIR DATA AND IDENTITY; THEY’RE DESIGNING

AND

CREATING THEIR OWN FUTURE.”

DUSTIN CANTER (A.K.A ‘MAYOR OF THE MIC’)

The world is changing rapidly, as are the skills needed to succeed. With the rise of cryptocurrencies, cyber warfare, and artificial intelligence, there is a growing demand for skilled professionals in these areas. However, traditional education systems are not equipped to provide the necessary training for these emerging fields.

With over 15 years of experience training young people, I have taught computer literacy in Africa and appeared on American public television as a ‘BizKid$’ teacher.

My passion for technology education and entrepreneurship inspired me to create FastestKid.org. This training ground equips young people with the skills and knowledge to become the next generation of technologists and entrepreneurs. Through my experience

volunteering with organizations such as the Network for Teaching Entrepreneurship and BUILD, I have developed a unique curriculum that combines classroom learning, handson workshops, and competitive aptitude tournaments to help young people thrive in the fast-paced world of technology.

Fastest Kid on the Blockchain is an annual event series. In 2022, we led the first classroom at Howard University Middle School. In 2023, the second classroom launched at Florida International University. Shortly thereafter, I partnered with the University of Wyoming Center for Blockchain and Digital Innovation to focus on implementing a 12-module curriculum, funded by the American Rescue Plan, in Title 1 communities.

In the Future: An Aspirational Vision

The superstar student-athletes of tomorrow proudly wear team apparel embedded with computer chips. The days of shooting digital rifles and driving monster e-trucks are long gone. Esports now has a new guiding star for discovering the brightest talents ready to lead the economy into new frontiers.

The fastest kid on each city block is no longer the quick-footed sprinter but the speedy brainiac solving larger-than-life problems. Corporate recruiters visit the homes of the fastest kids, offering them the latest iCar and enticing them to sign smart contracts for work.

“I’ll accept on one condition. After I solve your problem, I’d like the company to invest in my idea,” says the fastest kid.

The recruiter amends the smart contract, and the fastest kid signs by tapping the computer chip on their sleeve to the company tablet. A split second later, 1% of the signing bonus is automatically distributed to the fastest kid’s teammates who helped them train to become the superstar they are today. This kid owns their data and identity; they’re designing and creating their own future.

The following day, at after-school training, a fellow teammate asks the fastest kid for tips on improving their block explorer search skills.

The fastest kid replies, “Next time you’re at a Fastest Kid on the Blockchain tournament, ask one of the corporations about their mentorship opportunities. My mentor is a venture philanthropist with a 5% ownership stake in all my smart contracts for work over the next ten years. It’s the best investment I’ve ever made. Their knowledge and insights have elevated my game and my digital wallet.”

THE CURRICULUM

#1 Intro to Blockchain and Cryptocurrency

#2 Blockchain Use Cases

Bitcoin #4 Ethereum and Smart Contracts #5 Crypto Wallets

#6 Ways to Buy Cryptocurrency #7 Crypto Risk #8 NFTs

AS A PRACTITIONER IN THE WEB3 INDUSTRY, I HAVE COME TO REALIZE THAT THE TRUE POTENTIAL OF THIS

SHADMAN HOSSAIN,

MANAGER OF EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES PRACTICE, CGI FEDERAL

At its core, blockchain technology is about giving people control over their own data and assets, and enabling them to transact with one another in a transparent and secure way. By giving people control over their own data, we can create a more fair and just society where individuals have greater agency and autonomy. This is particularly important in today’s world where centralized systems are failing to meet the needs of the many.

One example of this is in the area of identity, where blockchain technology can create decentralized systems that give people control over their own personal information. This can help to address issues of privacy, security, and discrimination that are all too common in centralized systems.

Another area is governance, where blockchain-based platforms like Ethereum allow for the creation of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) that can operate without the need for centralized management. By creating decentralized systems of decision-making, we can create more democratic and transparent systems of governance that are truly accountable to the people.

In addition, Web3 technology has the potential to enable new forms of social and political organization. For example, blockchain-based voting systems could enable more secure and transparent elections, while decentralized platforms for social networking could enable more free and open communication.

Despite these exciting possibilities, there are also significant challenges that must be overcome in order to fully realize the potential of Web3. One of the biggest challenges is the lack of understanding and awareness among the general public. Many people still do not understand the basics of how blockchain technology works, and there is a lot of misinformation and hype surrounding these technologies.

Another major challenge is the lack of regulation and oversight. The decentralized nature of these technologies means that there is no single entity that is responsible for ensuring that they are being used in a responsible and ethical manner.

Despite these challenges, I remain deeply optimistic about the future of Web3 and blockchain technology. I believe that these technologies have the potential to create a more just, equitable, and prosperous world, and I am committed to doing everything in my power to help bring that future into being. As a technology leader in this emerging field, I am constantly striving to educate and inspire others to join me in this mission. Together, we can create a better world for ourselves and future generations.

Email: hossaincapital@gmail.com shadmoney_

THE FORMULA FOR BUSINESS IS FUNDAMENTALLY CHANGING WITH THE MAINSTREAM ADOPTION OF AI.”

SEEMA ALEXANDER, PRESIDENT & CO-FOUNDER, VIRGENT AI

We are amid society’s most unprecedented era of technological innovation - the next industrial revolution driven by the mainstream adoption of artificial intelligence (AI).

For CEOs, founders, and organization leaders, this period surpasses the advent and rise of the internet. New business categories will emerge, while many companies that resist embracing this technology will stagnate or fail at unprecedented rates.

Why the Alarm?

I’ve spent much of my career helping entrepreneurs and companies find their unique positioning and become sought-after brands through my proprietary repositioning formula: The UNIQUE Method™. This formula helps founders transition from operators to CEOs by making strategic decisions to refine their business models based on experience, deep customer data, and validated market desires. This strategic exercise used to be the missing formula for intentional business growth, but it is no longer enough on its own.

In the next 24-36 months, every industry, business, and workflow will be disrupted due to the sheer accessibility of AI through large language models, generative AI, and AI Agents. The formula for business is fundamentally changing with the mainstream adoption of AI, and founders, CEOs, and industry leaders need to pay attention now. Here are the new principles:

1. AI as a Core Business Driver

Entrepreneurs must see AI as essential to business strategy, not just a tech upgrade. Embracing AI and machine learning and identifying highvalue uses like automating complex workflows, creating personalized customer experiences, and using predictive models will differentiate your brand. Most new businesses will adopt an AI-first approach, making strategic AI use a baseline for competition.

2. Data is the New Currency

In this AI-driven era, data has become as valuable as financial capital. Just as currency drives economic systems, data now fuels AI-powered decision-making and innovation. Companies that excel at collecting and leveraging data for AI solutions will gain a decisive competitive edge.

3. Collaborative Intelligence for Growth

AI’s true power lies in the synergy with human ingenuity. Leaders should foster collaborative intelligence, where AI augments human decision-making. Using AI for routine tasks allows human agency to focus on creativity, strategy, and innovation. This blend of AI and human insight will unlock new categories of business, unparalleled growth opportunities, and keep enterprises agile in a rapidly changing market.

4. The Rising Importance of Brand Equity

An AI-driven market will bring about increasingly crowded industries, so establishing brand equity based on your unique expert positioning cannot be overstated. Some believe that expertise will be lost due to the mere intelligence of the AI tools available on the market. However, I firmly believe that in an AI-saturated market, identifying your unique expert positioning, storytelling, and values that only a brand can establish with its ideal customers will be more important than ever to stand out from competitors.

The Bottom Line

We are in one of the most significant entrepreneurial moments of our lifetime. AI isn’t just changing the game – it’s creating a new one entirely. Brand equity and unique differentiation will always be critical in growth, but the formula for business has now forever changed. You must include AI with intention and treat data as a precious resource. It’s time to move beyond AI-curious and become AI-powered or risk being left behind.

THE BRIDGE BETWEEN EDUCATION AND INDUSTRY IS BUILT ON SOLID PARTNERSHIPS, STRATEGIC ALIGNMENT, AND A COMMITMENT TO INNOVATION.”

VICTOR HOSKINS, PRESIDENT & CEO, FAIRFAX

Embracing the fast-paced technological transformation before us, we know that innovation is not just about having the brightest ideas or the most advanced technology. It is about cultivating an ecosystem where transformative ideas can flourish and where technology meets skilled hands and minds prepared to wield it.

Fairfax County is a driving force for innovation, attracting companies in sectors ranging from artificial intelligence (AI) and aerospace commercialization to quantum technology, and we at the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA) are dedicated to supporting the growth of these businesses as they embark on purpose-driven missions.

We offer a variety of highly customized services, all which are free and confidential, to support our businesses and those wanting to establish a presence at the doorsteps of the Nation’s Capital. We assist with site selection, market and industry intelligence, talent attraction and public relations, and today, we support a rapidly growing ecosystem of more than 40,000 payroll businesses, of which 10,000 are in tech sector.

Charting the Course for the Workforce of the Future

Our business is to help make companies successful because when they prosper, the community thrives thereby enhancing both the economy and the quality of life in Fairfax County. To support the accelerating growth of our businesses and those that want to establish presence here, we have begun taking steps to invent the workforce of the future.

Close collaboration between the public and private sectors and the education community allows us to anticipate and prepare for future workforce needs before they materialize. The integration of career exploration, mentorships and internships starting from K-12 is about fostering a mindset of curiosity and problemsolving among the next generation. When we build a talent pipeline to support innovation and business growth by aligning opportunities such as internships directly with the job market demands, we work to ensure a seamless transition from education to employment. This, in turn, supports the growth and prosperity of our economy.

At FCEDA, I have had the privilege of initiating and overseeing programs that aim to fill job openings and strategically build a future where our regional economy thrives through transformation across sectors. These initiatives are not just about economic development but about creating an environment where every individual can build a meaningful and purposedriven future while making career and life pivots the norm rather than the exception.

I believe that change is the only constant and that second and third acts in life are the key to resilient communities. As our businesses respond to the rapid changes in technology and take on new missions and overcome paramount challenges, we are building a workforce – and a community –that is ready to respond and support the emergence of the economy of the future.

seemaalexander

“The integration of career exploration, mentorships and internships from K-12 is about fostering a mindset of curiosity and problem-solving among the next generation.”

victor-hoskins

EMBRACE – NO, CELEBRATE – YOUR FAILURES! LEARN FROM THEM. LET THEM GUIDE YOU, NOT DETER YOU.”

PROFESSOR TOMMY WHITE, DIRECTOR, VELORIC CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP; SENIOR PROFESSORIAL LECTURER, KOGOD SCHOOL OF BUSINESS; AMERICAN UNIVERSITY (AU)

AU/KSB MBA ’95, BA HISTORY & ECONOMICS, UNC-CH ‘86

I often encounter bright minds shackled by a crippling anxiety: the fear of failure. It’s a common thread woven through the fabric of the entrepreneurial journey, yet it remains one of the least addressed.

Failure, in its myriad forms, is not just an inevitable part of life; it’s a necessary step towards achieving success. As an entrepreneur and educator, I’ve seen firsthand how the fear of failure can stymie curiosity, innovation, creativity, and growth. It’s not the failure itself that is the enemy, but the fear of it.

In my experience, embracing failure is the cornerstone of any successful entrepreneurial venture. It’s a mindset shift that transforms obstacles into opportunities for learning and growth. The world’s most successful entrepreneurs aren’t those who never fail but those who fail repeatedly and keep moving forward.

Imagine if Thomas Edison had given up after his first few attempts at creating a light bulb. We often forget that it took him thousands of trials to finally succeed. Each failure brought him closer to his goal. This is the essence of entrepreneurial spirit – the relentless pursuit of a vision, regardless of the setbacks encountered along the way.

In my activities at the Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship and my entrepreneurship courses, I emphasize the importance of resilience. The ability to bounce back from failure is more valuable than any single success. I encourage my students to step out of their comfort zones, take risks, and view failure not as a setback but as a stepping stone to their personal success.

We live in a society that often stigmatizes failure, yet it is through our failures that

we learn our most valuable lessons. Failure teaches us humility, adaptability, and the importance of perseverance. It also fosters creativity; when one path closes, we are forced to think outside the box and find new, often better, routes to our goals.

So, I say to the aspiring entrepreneurs: Embrace – no, celebrate – your failures! Learn from them. Let them guide you, not deter you. The path to success is paved with the lessons learned from each fall. Remember, the only true failure is in never trying at all.

I FIRMLY BELIEVE THAT THE UNIQUE EXPERIENCES AND INSIGHTS GAINED AS A WOMAN AND A MOTHER ARE INVALUABLE IN BUSINESS.”

RACHEL KORETSKY

I advocate for a culture shift. Let’s redefine failure not as a stigma but as a badge of honor – a testament to our courage to try, learn, and ultimately succeed.

Entrepreneurship is not just a career; it’s a calling that demands resilience, creativity, and, most importantly, a willingness to embrace challenges. As a solo female founder and a mother, my journey with Upace and DC Startup Week has been a testament to these truths.

My entrepreneurial spirit was ignited early, but it truly took shape during my college years. Identifying a gap in how fitness and recreation centers connected with their members, I conceived Upace. What began as a reservation software concept evolved into a leading mobile platform for community recreation centers. As the architect of Upace, I have navigated the complexities of the tech industry, a domain often dominated by male counterparts. Being the only woman in the room at networking events or pitching sessions brought its own set of challenges. However, I refused to be deterred by stereotypes or the daunting prospect of being a nontechnical founder in a tech-driven world.

The decision to bootstrap Upace was strategic, reflecting my belief in sustainable growth and authentic connections. This path wasn’t the easiest, but it was a choice that allowed Upace to develop organically, fostering genuine relationships with our clients and stakeholders.

Simultaneously, my role as a mother of two incredible boys has been a parallel journey of growth and learning. Motherhood has not only equipped me with exceptional time management skills but has also provided a unique lens through which I view leadership and business strategy. Balancing these dual roles has been a journey in itself, offering profound insights into the power of empathy, patience, and adaptability.

One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned is the significance of community. In the early days, networks like the Netta Project and DC Startup Week were pivotal in providing the support and encouragement I needed. These communities were more than professional networks; they were ecosystems of empowerment that played a crucial role in Upace’s growth.

I firmly believe that the unique experiences and insights gained as a woman and a mother are invaluable in business. Embrace your journey with all its challenges, for it shapes you into a more effective leader and an inspiration to many. Your gender and life choices should not be seen as barriers but as enablers of a diverse and rich entrepreneurial journey.

To all aspiring female entrepreneurs, especially those balancing motherhood, know that your path might be challenging, but it’s also incredibly rewarding. The sleepless nights and the endless balancing acts are part of a journey that shapes you into a better leader and a more resilient person. Your story is not just about building a successful venture; it’s about redefining the norms of entrepreneurship and inspiring a new generation of female leaders who can confidently pursue their visions with courage and conviction.

MAKING THE MOST OF OPPORTUNITIES IN BUSINESS, AND IN LIFE.”

DAVID MARCHICK; DEAN, THE KOGOD SCHOOL OF BUSINESS AT AMERICAN UNIVERSITY; BA, UC SAN DIEGO (‘88); MA, LBJ SCHOOL OF PUBLIC AFFAIRS, UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS AT AUSTIN (‘90); JD, GEORGE WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (‘05).

When people ask me about the value of business school, I think about it like this: it’s about what type of business school you choose. Not all business schools are created equal.

At the Kogod School of Business, where I’ve been the dean for nearly two years, we are constantly pushing the envelope and the expectation for what a business school education can deliver.

What do I mean?

Having the opportunity to invest millions of dollars of real money in the market by participating in one of our student-run investment funds. Meeting the CEO of your favorite local company (hi, Cava!) because we brought their leadership to campus to speak. Learning how to use artificial intelligence in your classes to ensure you’re ahead of the curve when it comes time to apply for jobs.

Every opportunity presented to you is an opportunity to learn, grow, succeed. And it is my mission as dean to present every student with as many opportunities as possible.

I’m passionate about this because I see exposure to innovation as a prerequisite for success in the real world. Not every Kogod student studies finance, but the opportunity to invest university funds in the market puts the power to learn a meaningful skill in their hands.

Not every Kogod student wants to become an entrepreneur, but the opportunity to learn from successful small business owners and founders teaches them resilience and tact.

think about the lessons I’ve learned from people in my own life who are innovators. My good friend and mentor David Rubenstein taught me to surround myself with people who are smarter and better than I am, because it’s an opportunity to learn. My colleague Tommy White, who runs the Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship here at Kogod and has built five companies, taught me to take risks, because doing so is an opportunity to succeed. (He won’t mind me saying that of those five companies, not all of them succeeded – but the risks were worth the gain for the ones that did!). Perhaps most meaningfully, our school’s namesake, the inimitable Robert Kogod, taught me to lift others up as a mission in life, because service to others is an opportunity to better oneself.

think these innovators would agree with me: It is the access to opportunity and the desire to benefit from it that really sets people up to succeed.

My advice to students, then? Take every opportunity. Innovate. Sometimes fail. But ultimately, succeed.

DeanMarchick

david-marchick

MY VISION IS A WORLD WHERE ANYONE CAN HARNESS VIDEO GAMES FOR VARIOUS PURPOSES – EDUCATION, SOCIAL IMPACT, MARKETING, OR TRAINING – IRRESPECTIVE OF THEIR TECHNICAL SKILLS.”

Innovation goes beyond creating something new; it’s about making a meaningful difference. My journey, from Pakistan to the World Bank and into the realms of technology and communications, has been driven by this ethos. The turning point was recognizing gaming’s potential as a tool for impactful communication.

With a background in economics and after a 12-year stint at the World Bank venturing through 22 countries focusing on education policy, I realized the limitations of traditional communication methods in effecting behavior change. Gaming, a truly universal language, emerged as the solution. It’s a medium that educates, engages, and empowers, transcending conventional barriers.

Transitioning to a tech entrepreneur, I aimed to reimagine game creation and utilization. My vision is a world where anyone can harness video games for various purposes – education, social impact, marketing, or training – irrespective of their technical skills.

Breshna.io, my brainchild, embodies this vision. It’s a platform that empowers a non-technical audience to create custom video games effortlessly and at no cost. Like Tiktok and Canva democratized content creation, Breshna.io democratizes game development, bridging the gap between the billion gamers and the limited pool of 200,000 game creators. This democratization is vital for ensuring diverse and inclusive content in gaming.

I foresee a future where gaming and storytelling merge, enabling every individual to be both a gamer and a creator. My mission extends particularly to education, transforming screen time into meaningful learning experiences. This approach doesn’t pull children away from screens; instead, it leverages their screen time for educational benefits.

Challenging the status quo in education and technology isn’t a path of least resistance, especially against the backdrop of traditional gaming conservatism. However, this resistance only strengthens my resolve to foster transformation and make screens a canvas of endless possibilities, where every game is a story, a lesson, or a movement. Change is never easy, but it’s necessary.

MARIAM NUSRAT, FOUNDER & CEO OF BRESHNA.IO

FOSTERING IMPACT-DRIVEN ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN AND OUT OF THE CLASSROOM.”

THE MISSION OF COMMON GOOD ENTREPRENEURSHIP.”

JEFF REID, FOUNDING DIRECTOR OF GEORGETOWN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

MELISSA BRADLEY, PROFESSOR OF THE PRACTICE, GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY’S MCDONOUGH SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

Melissa Bradley is a professor of the practice at Georgetown University’s McDonough School of Business, where she teaches impact investing, social entrepreneurship, P2P economics, and

Since graduating from Georgetown McDonough in 1989 with a B.S. in finance, Bradley has remained passionate about preserving the strength of the American financial system.

“I am laser-focused on small business and entrepreneurship – which is the backbone of the U.S. economy,” Bradley said. “More individuals are employed in small businesses than large corporations. As the demographics of founders have changed to the majority of people of color, it is important to support their journey with culturally competent and relevant support.”

At Georgetown and through her own business, 1863™ Ventures, which is a platform that delivers content, connections, and capital, to “New Majority” entrepreneurs to foster responsible entrepreneurship and change the narrative around their potential and needs, Bradley lives and breathes purpose-driven entrepreneurship.

“All investing has an impact,” Bradley said. “The class I teach is focused on intentionally using capital to generate a profit and create social impact at the same time. Students hear from for-profit social entrepreneurs, as well as investors. The final project is the creation of an impact investing fund. Whether students go into finance or investment banking is irrelevant. As Georgetown seeks to create global leaders, I believe my MBA students need to understand the impact and power of capital allocation across all sectors.”

In order to achieve business success, Bradley believes that a company should solve a problem or a pressing societal challenge.

“The founders who solve really big social problems are the true social entrepreneurs,” Bradley said. “If founders wish to solve really big social problems, then they need to understand the problem, have empathy toward the impacted stakeholders, focus on impact and profitability, and seek to scale their solutions if and when they work.”

When looking at the future of entrepreneurship, Bradley explained that supporting founders who are stepping up as forward-thinking innovators will be crucial to the success of the industry.

“This new batch of founders are women, people of color, and older generations. As any good business, we must follow the customer demand.”

As the founding director of Georgetown Entrepreneurship, Jeff Reid is passionate about educating, mentoring, and influencing the next generation of entrepreneurs to use their new business ventures to serve the common good.

“Common good entrepreneurship involves creating and operating businesses that not only aim for financial success but also strive to generate positive social and environmental impacts,” Reid said. “It emphasizes sustainability, ethical practices, and a commitment to improving the well-being of communities and society as a whole.”

The concept of common good entrepreneurship aligns with Georgetown University’s Jesuit principles of service to others and the pursuit of social justice.

According to Reid, this approach fosters a culture of ethical leadership that is imperative when creating both profitable and beneficial business models in society.

However, Reid explained that common good entrepreneurship should not be seen as a business strategy but instead as a mindset of how success is viewed and measured.

“It challenges the traditional profit-only model and encourages entrepreneurs to consider the

broader implications of their actions,” Reid said.

“By fostering this mindset, we can cultivate a generation of leaders who are equipped to tackle the pressing challenges of our time and create a more equitable and sustainable world.”

In his courses at Georgetown McDonough, Reid educates students about the significance of social impact, community development, personal alignment, innovation, and resilience in the venture industry. These qualities are leveraged to not only address complex business problems that arise but are also used to build more resilient businesses that are capable of adapting to societal needs and expectations.

When asked about the specific qualities of ventures that aim to serve the common good, Reid said they typically share the following characteristics:

• Mission-driven: Clear focus on addressing a social or environmental issue.

• Sustainable: Commitment to long-term environmental stewardship and sustainable practices.

• Inclusive: Promoting diversity and inclusion within the organization and through its impact.

• Ethical: Adherence to high ethical standards in all business operations.

• Community-oriented: Active involvement and investment in the local community.

• Transparent: Open communication about business practices and impact.

If interested in connecting with Reid, please email him at Jeff.Reid@georgetown.edu.

I WANT TO HELP AND INSPIRE PEOPLE AND CHANGE THE WORLD FOR THE BETTER.”

MIGUEL COPPEDGE, AGE 17, AUTHOR, ENTREPRENEUR, PHILANTHROPIST, INSPIRATIONAL/MOTIVATIONAL SPEAKER

I pride myself on being unique and different. Most teens my age are worried about having the latest name brand clothing, shoes, or gadgets. But not me! want to help and inspire people and change the world for the better. As a former foster child and current adoptee, understand how it feels to have less than others and adjusting to new and unfamiliar environments. I learned that I can help people through my creativity and unique gifts. I did this by becoming a young published author and a kidpreneur.

At age nine, I became a published author of my first book, “The Adventures of FireMan,” which is about two boys who discover they have super powers and use them to fight crime. I made a short film of this book and also ended up on the news to promote it. By age 10, I published three books; with one being a bestseller.

I’ve been on the news several times and in newspapers and magazine publications about being a young published author and have won numerous young author awards. dedicated my first book to President Barack Obama because I met him at age nine. I sent him the book and he wrote me back thanking me and telling me that he’s proud of me and he knows that I will change the world. That’s when also became a youth philanthropist and motivational/inspirational speaker.

After the success of my first book I started going to schools, churches, and youth organizations to speak to the youth about following their dreams no matter what age you are. In 2021 at age 15, I became a kidpreneur. created a curl crème/hair butter for boys and men called Krulle pronounced “kru la la” meaning curls in Afrikaans (a South African language).

My philanthropy started when I published my first book. I would give a portion of my proceeds to St. Ann’s Children’s, Youth and Families because was a foster baby there. Every year I participate in their silent auction fundraiser and donate all my book sale money. In 2018, I began giving back to DC Child and Family Services Agency foster care children because I was once in the system as a foster child before was adopted. I created and donated I Care Comfort Bags, which consists of toiletries, stuffed animals, and other items of comfort. I do this every year in December around my birthday. This prompted me to start my non-profit organization “I Care Comfort Foundation.” I have won numerous awards for being a youth philanthropist that I am very proud of. I love giving back. It gives me a warm feeling inside that I can help someone in need.

My motto and message to youth of all ages is “You’re never too young to do anything.”

WITHOUT STRUGGLE, THERE

MARGOT MACHOL BISNOW, AUTHOR, RAISING

Email: theadventuresoffireman@gmail.com

Email: krulle2005@gmail.com

Email: icarecomfortfoundation@gmail.com

@theadventuresoffireman & @krullellc

@theadeventuresoffireman & @krullellc miguelcoppedge.com krulle.com

IS NO

GROWTH.”

AN ENTREPRENEUR

RAISING AN ENTREPRENEUR

As parents, we want what is best for our children. Or, at least, what we think is best for them. And what we almost always want for them is success. But wanting success for our children, even when our desire for their success comes from love and our concern for their welfare, is not the same thing as truly believing in them.

Believing in our children involves having wholehearted trust and faith in them – even when their road is rough, or their choices are… shall we say, unexpected. It means understanding that they’re not going to be immediately successful at everything they try – and that ultimately this is, in fact, a very good thing, because without struggle, there is no growth. It means supporting kids as they find and follow their passions, celebrating their triumphs with them, but also being there for them as they pick themselves up after setbacks. It means lovingly standing by and trusting them to handle adversity, instead of jumping in to handle it for them. It’s how we teach our kids not to fear failure – that they have what it takes to recover and grow from it. That they can trust themselves.

When I chose the 70 entrepreneurs to interview for my book, I chose a diverse group, both in terms of inputs –gender, race, religion, ethnicity, sexual orientation, family income, family size and structure, parents’ education, their own education, where they’d grown up – and outcomes – I wanted them to have started big companies, small companies, non-profits, or profits-for-purpose, or to be artists, or activists. Given all these differences, I wondered if I’d find any common threads.

To my amazement, everyone came from a family that conveyed the same message: We support you; we believe in you; follow your passion. Sometimes following through on that message required a big gulp, or even a leap of faith. But every parent said it. And meant it.

Maybe you’re thinking: That’s not so unusual – all parents believe in their children. But that’s not true. All parents love their children. That’s not the same thing as truly believing in them – as truly trusting them.

Fearless kids who are doing what they love most –following their hearts, rather than trying to please their parents or anyone else – are poised to have great adventures. They’re also getting the best kind of training

for making the world a better place. Parents should let go of their anxieties about their kids’ future, and encourage them to pursue their passion with all they’ve got. If so, maybe something great will happen. Something great for them and possibly, something great for the world.

@margotbisnow

ENTREPRENEURS MERGE GROUNDBREAKING IDEAS

AND BUSINESS INTERESTS TO CREATE

ENDURING COMPANIES.”

TIGE SAVAGE, MANAGING PARTNER OF REVOLUTION VENTURES AND CO-FOUNDER OF REVOLUTION

I’ve been fortunate to partner with brilliant startup leaders during my career, and it’s often the companies that require the most grit that are the most rewarding experiences. The pursuit of great challenges is also something I look for in my personal life. recently sailed – backwards – around Cape Horn (from east to west, while the winds and waves go from west to east). Fewer people have achieved this feat than climbing Mount Everest. In the same way, entrepreneurs are always pushing forward despite a tide of resistance.

The Uncharted Journey of Building a Company

Entrepreneurs drive global change, merging groundbreaking ideas and business interests with the support of venture capital, to create enduring companies. Our team has invested and collaborated for more than a decade. We serve as board members and advisors to our companies – working hand-in-hand to navigate the inevitable ups and downs that come with launching a new company. We’ve backed several notable startups that have helped shape and highlight the promise of the D.C. tech scene, including LivingSocial (acquired by Groupon), Framebridge (acquired by Graham Holdings), and Homesnap (acquired by CoStar).

The Economic Impact of Entrepreneurship

Startups are crucial to reducing dependence on obsolete technologies and pushing the innovation cycle forward. By creating competition within industries, they are a powerful force to enhance choice and affordability for consumers and businesses. Entrepreneurs also play an important role in boosting local economies and communities – in fact, most new jobs are created by startups under five years old. At Revolution Ventures, we support sustainable growth by offering operational advice, leadership counsel, and introductions to potential partners, acquirers, and co-investors.

Over the past decade, the D.C. startup market has steadily gained ground, with seed- and early-stage deals growing from $269.7 million in 2011 to more than $1.2 billion by 2018. This momentum is supported by a rich network of universities, think tanks, and Fortune 500 companies. One challenge within the market is creating a connective fabric in a very transient city – with one administration to the next, there is a lot of movement of talent. Organizations like Halcyon House, 1863 Ventures, and the entrepreneurship schools at local colleges and universities have been pivotal in creating a more integrated and enduring ecosystem.

Expanding Venture Capital Reach

Historically, a key differentiator for Revolution has been where we invest – 99 percent of our capital is put to work outside of Silicon Valley. Over time, and particularly during the pandemic, other investors followed our lead and started to make more bets around the country. It was great to witness, but there’s still progress to be made in fostering a more geographically diverse future for entrepreneurship. At Revolution Ventures, we continue to uncover opportunities everywhere and back founders with a bold commitment and vision for ushering in the next great tech company.

THERE’S NO SUCH THING AS

OVERNIGHT SUCCESS.”

MARCY EWALD, CO-FOUNDER AND COO AT THINKNIMBLE

Most entrepreneurs we work with, including ourselves, have been building businesses for over a decade. Most are not working on the first business they started either.

Even if the concept you’re currently working on doesn’t shake out, the lessons, the networks, and how you respond to success and failure will compound into your next business, building an invaluable skillset.

Everyone starts as a ‘junior entrepreneur.’ No one knows what they don’t know about incorporating a business, tax law, and building a sales engine. Once you’ve mastered that, you merely move on to learning a different set of new skills. You shouldn’t expect to walk into your first company, even if it’s an industry you’ve been in for decades, as a senior entrepreneur. It will take time to get to that point.

The best thing you can do is set yourself up to learn. Find someone just one step beyond where you’re right now, someone who’s just solved the pain points you’re working through. Find a role model who built something solid from the ground up, and watch the thrifty ways they made it work.

Be cautious and prudent about your spending. Expect everything to take 2-3 times as long as you anticipate, and plan your finances accordingly. If you take a significant risk, make sure that decision has a higher payoff than a smaller risk might.

Talking to future customers, refining your idea, and meeting new people in the space can feel like distractions from just jumping in. But it can also be an opportunity to pare down your business, help you see things more clearly, and help you watch where your competition steers wrong. Treat it as an experimental learning opportunity, and extract as much as possible before hardcoding business decisions that will be more difficult to change.

Every founder experiences failure, but you’ll fail forward if you act with integrity. People will notice if you’re doing the right thing and trying to create this business from a sincere place. The best connections we have from our failed startups are the ones who saw us fail, saw us act with integrity in that failure, saw us make things right, and who know we are going to treat the business with respect.

There is no such thing as overnight success when building a business. And we shouldn’t aim for that –fast fashion makes cheap clothes; overnight success makes cheap business. Hard work, commitment, integrity, pivots, experimentation, communication, and countless other variables exist. It’s hard work, but entrepreneurship is also the most fun job in the world.

THE JOURNEY FROM INNOVATION TO SOCIAL INNOVATION IS NOT JUST A SHIFT IN FOCUS BUT A LEAP IN UNDERSTANDING.”

WILLIAM CHERNICOFF, PH.D.

Innovation has long been the buzzword in the tech world, a concept intertwined with progress, growth, and the future. But through my years of experience, I’ve realized there’s a distinct difference between mere innovation and social innovation. It’s like planting a tree without considering the forest. In contrast, social innovation is about planting that tree with the forest in mind, understanding its place in the ecosystem, and its impact on the environment and community.

This distinction became evident as I delved deeper into humancentered design and the complexities of integrating technology into heterogeneous human communities. It’s not enough to innovate for innovation’s sake; we must innovate with a purpose. Social innovation does just that – it harnesses the power of new ideas and technologies to address societal needs, focusing on inclusivity, equity, and sustainability.

For instance, when looking at advancements like electric vehicles (EVs) or large language models, the question isn’t just about their technological prowess. It’s also about understanding their societal implications – social innovation encourages us to look beyond the immediate benefits of technology and consider its long-term effects on society.

One of my mentors once said, “Today’s problems were yesterday’s solutions.” This statement resonates deeply with me. We’ve often created new challenges in our pursuit of progress, inadvertently neglecting the systemic and holistic view necessary for sustainable development. Social innovation is about breaking this cycle. It creates solutions that solve today’s problems and anticipate and mitigate the potential issues of tomorrow.

As innovators, we need to create solutions that cater to a diverse and often marginalized population, ensuring that the benefits of innovation are distributed more evenly across society.

Moreover, social innovation is about being inclusive in our approach, considering the vulnerable groups often left out of the conversation and striving towards solutions that lift everyone, not just a select few. It’s a commitment to bridging the gap between the haves and the have-nots, ensuring that our technological advancements don’t widen existing inequalities.

The journey from innovation to social innovation is not just a shift in focus but a leap in understanding. Social innovation is a tool for economic growth and a significant means for societal betterment. It is the essence of true progress: one that leaves a lasting, positive impact on society as a whole.

THE QUESTION I POSE IS NOT WHAT RISKS WE FACE IF BLOCKCHAIN-POWERED FINANCIAL INNOVATIONS SUCCEED BUT WHAT WE STAND TO LOSE IF THEY DON’T.” DANTE DISPARTE, CHIEF STRATEGY OFFICER AND

HEAD OF GLOBAL POLICY AT CIRCLE

While many people are preoccupied about the potential risks if digital asset innovations succeed, what are the risks if we fail? Billions of people are relegated to the financial shadows because analog financial services have reached a point of diminishing returns, which would be a terrible societal outcome.

I advocate for the potential of stablecoins to transform and democratize financial services globally. As Chief Strategy Officer and Head of Global Policy at Circle, I’ve witnessed firsthand the evolution of the financial sector and the critical role digital currency can play in elevating economic prosperity.

My journey has been fueled by an unwavering belief in technology’s power to forge a more inclusive world. Being the first in my family to graduate from high school and college, I’ve lived through

WE ARE ARCHITECTS OF TOMORROW, BUILDING BRIDGES OF OPPORTUNITY, EQUITY, AND EMPOWERMENT.”

JEAN C. ACCIUS, PHD, PRESIDENT & CEO, CHC: CREATING HEALTHIER COMMUNITIES

Time is our most valuable asset. Once you lose it, you never get it back. Yet, millions of people across our country are robbed of priceless time.

A Tale of Two Cities

In the United States, there’s a strong likelihood that a person in one city might live 20 years longer than someone in a city just two miles away. That’s a significant difference in a country with so many resources. It’s not just health that is impacted but most tragically, the loss of time. Every ZIP code tells a story, but not one that’s always fair or just. It is a chilling reality, a call to arms, and a challenge I eagerly embrace. Nestled within this bitter truth lies a beacon of hope – innovation – the harbinger of change and equality.

We – society – have the opportunity to think of ways we can reimagine and close those gaps so every resident in every neighborhood has the same number of years to grow old with their partners, play cards with their friends, check out books at the library, and, in many cases, watch their children grow old.

The $320 Billion Abyss

Disparities in health are not just moral failings; they are economic chasms, swallowing an astounding $320 billion in 2022 and could surpass $1 trillion in annual spending by 2040 if left unaddressed, as noted by Deloitte. That is not just a financial loss but a profound reflection of lives unfulfilled. Silence is not an option, and inaction is a luxury we cannot afford.

The Pulse of Innovation

At Creating Healthier Communities (CHC), every initiative, every partnership is a brick in the bridge spanning this divide. We don’t just envision a world where ZIP codes don’t dictate destinies – we are meticulously crafting it, blending innovation and empathy to sculpt a future where equity reigns supreme.

This is not a distant dream but a tangible reality within our grasp. We are architects of tomorrow, building bridges of opportunity, equity, and empowerment. Our tools are innovation, empathy, and an unyielding belief in the power of unity.

The Movement

We stand at the precipice of change, where every step taken is a second reclaimed, a life renewed. In this formidable journey, we’re not just reaching for health or wealth but reclaiming stolen time. More time to love, more moments to learn, and more opportunities to live life to the fullest. Are you ready to step into this movement?

Dr. Jean Accius is President and CEO of Creating Healthier Communities (CHC). He has a strong background in transforming organizations, building high-performing teams, and forming strategic partnerships across industries to scale for impact and accelerate change.

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WE ARE NOT JUST A MIRROR IMAGE OF SILICON VALLEY; WE ARE A TECH HUB WITH OUR OWN STRENGTHS AND IDENTITY.”

JENNIFER TAYLOR, PRESIDENT AND CEO, NORTHERN VIRGINIA TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

accius@CHCimpact.org

As I look to the future of Northern Virginia, I’m filled with excitement and optimism about our region’s immense potential. Our area has long been known as a powerhouse for government contracting and cloud computing. Still, we are now on the brink of a new era driven by cybersecurity, artificial intelligence (AI), and quantum computing. These sectors are not just transforming our local economy but they are also poised to make significant impacts on a global scale.

Reflecting on our journey, it’s clear how far we’ve come. In the 1990s, Northern Virginia was primarily recognized as a government town. With the rise of AOL and the dot-com boom, we quickly evolved into an internet town. Today, we proudly hold the title of the “Data Center Capital of the World”, and our advancements in commercial aerospace and space technology are

remarkable. This evolution is powered by the world’s largest purchaser of tech products and services - our very own U.S. federal government.

What makes Northern Virginia unique is its strategic alignment with the needs of the federal government. While Silicon Valley is celebrated for its startup culture, our region is distinct in nurturing startups focused on government solutions. This creates a different but equally vibrant and dynamic tech ecosystem in technology accelerator areas such as AI operations, cybersecurity, zero-trust, multi-cloud, 5G, quantum computing, and more. We are not just a mirror image of Silicon Valley; we are a tech hub with our own strengths and identity.

AI, in particular, represents what believe is the greatest tech revolution ever. Its potential impacts are vast and just beginning to unfold.

As we look ahead, we must embrace this technology while ensuring its benefits are accessible to all. My passion lies in creating opportunities for everyone, especially those traditionally underrepresented in the tech sector. By promoting apprenticeships for new collar workers and developing college degree programs in partnership with industry, our region can better equip the next generation of talent with the skills needed for in-demand roles.

My message is simple: Stay curious, keep learning, and always practice kindness. As we advance technologically, let’s ensure no one is left behind. Together, we can build a future where innovation and inclusion go hand-inhand, making Northern Virginia a model for tech excellence and equity.

jennifermarietaylor

I’VE ALWAYS BELIEVED THAT OUR PRIMARY PURPOSE IS TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE.”

TROY A. LEMAILE-STOVALL, CEO OF TEDCO

From Southeast Houston to the boardrooms of the tech world, my journey has been anything but ordinary. Guided by a principle instilled in me by my mother, I’ve always believed that our primary purpose is to make a difference. This belief has not only shaped my personal interactions but has also fundamentally influenced my professional ethos.

In the tech industry, where the pace of innovation often outstrips our capacity for reflection, I’ve learned the importance of the “4Ss” - stitch, scale, story, and stickiness. These principles advocate for collaboration (stitch), amplifying our efforts (scale), using data to tell compelling stories (story), and ensuring our initiatives have lasting impact (stickiness). This framework is not just about advancing technology but is a blueprint for nurturing environments where businesses and communities thrive together.

Through my time in Silicon Valley, interacting with venture capitalists and fellow entrepreneurs, I’ve absorbed two critical lessons: First, we should embrace the inevitability of losses but make our victories count profoundly. Second, always invest in first-rate people, even over a perfect plan – people drive plans, not the other way around.

As a blessed kid from a loving home, educated under the vigilant eyes of a community that believed in me, I’ve worn many hats: an engineer, a computer scientist, a consultant, an entrepreneur, and an executive. Each role taught me something invaluable about the power of persistence, the necessity of innovation, and the importance of equitable opportunities.

Today, my message to the world is one of relentless optimism and unwavering commitment to change. I firmly believe we are each placed on this planet to make an impact; we just don’t know when or how this will occur. Therefore, the imperative is clear: we should strive to make a difference in every life we touch. This isn’t just a guiding principle; it’s a call to action to drive meaningful and sustainable change.

In closing, I urge you to remember that diversity, equity, and innovation are not just buzzwords; they are essential pillars for a prosperous future. Let’s commit to being catalysts for change in our industries and communities and together, we can stitch a tapestry of progress that scales, tells a story, and sticks for years to come.

YOU’VE GOT UNLIMITED POTENTIAL, AND SOMETIMES YOU JUST NEED THAT MISSING PIECE TO UNLOCK IT.”

WA’IL ASHSHOWWAF, CEO AND COFOUNDER

Have you ever tried to solve a Rubik’s cube? I have, and let me tell you, it’s not as easy as my then 9-year-old son made it look. There I was, twisting and turning that colorful puzzle, getting nowhere fast, while my kid solved it in under a minute. When I asked him how he did it, he said, “It’s simple, Dad. know the strategy; you don’t.” Talk about a mic-drop moment from a second-grader.

That Rubik’s cube incident taught me one of the most valuable lessons in my entrepreneurial journey. Let me share three game-changing insights I’ve picked up along the way.

#1: Strategy Over Effort (The Rubik’s Cube Lesson)

The Rubik’s cube is a perfect metaphor for entrepreneurship. We often think success comes from working harder, putting in more hours and sweat. But sometimes, we’re just spinning our wheels. The real breakthrough comes when you have the right strategy. In the startup world, founders burn themselves out but are not making progress. Why? All effort and no strategy. It’s not about how hard you twist the cube; it’s about knowing which moves to make.

#2: Intentionality is Your Secret Weapon

In 2015, I reluctantly attended my first Startup Weekend, thinking, “72 hours to build a startup? Yeah, right.” Boy, was I in for a surprise. By Sunday, we had customer interviews, an MVP, a website, a pitch deck, and potential clients. It was a shock to the system. Intentionality is the differentiator: clear goals, deadlines, and focused action. This experience lit a fire under me. Within a week, my friend Ibrahem Alhaidari created Unstuck Labs, and together with my co-founder, we developed what we now call the Unstuck Method.

Our method revolves around a core principle: setting clear intentions, collecting insights along the way, transforming those insights into actionable steps, and executing with accountability. It’s simple, but it works wonders. Trust me, make this your new normal, and you’ll be amazed at what you can achieve.

#3: Don’t Be Too Proud to Ask for Help

While in the Saudi Arabian desert, our SUV was stuck; no amount of pushing, digging, or revving the engine could get us moving again. We spotted some locals nearby, and swallowing our pride, we waved them over for help. Without hesitation, they come to our aid. In less than 90 seconds, they got us unstuck.

The lesson? Sometimes, you need to wave the white flag and ask for help. More importantly, when you ask, you’ll often find people willing to help. In the startup world, trying to do everything alone is a recipe for disaster. There’s no shame in seeking advice, mentorship, or partnerships.

Entrepreneurship isn’t a solo sport; it’s about being intentional, strategic, and humble enough to seek help when needed. Our logo at Unstuck Labs - an infinity sign with a missing piece - represents just that. You’ve got unlimited potential, and sometimes you just need that missing piece to unlock it.

WE MUST MOVE FROM COMMODITIZING HUMAN AGENCY TO VALUING AND NURTURING IT.”

KEN POLOTAN, FOUNDER AND CEO OF T H E O R I

Management vs. Leadership

This crisis stems from outdated leadership development models and practices, ill-equipped to navigate the complexities of modern technology, macro-economic forces, consumer behavior shifts, and the advent of AI. We confuse management with leadership, leading to a mechanistic mindset and worse, the commoditization of human agency.

Historically, we’ve viewed workplaces through a factory mindset, obsessing over productivity and efficiency. But in an era of rapid technological advancements, why are we working more, earning less, and drifting apart as communities? A lack of true leadership.

While management is essential for certain aspects like inventory, data, or equipment, applying this managerial approach to people is flawed. We can’t control human beings; that’s an illusion.

The Path Forward

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BELIEVE

THAT TRUE SUCCESS ISN’T MEASURED BY STATUS OR WEALTH BUT BY THE IMPACT WE HAVE ON OTHERS.”

RICHARD BRANDENBURG, CEO UNFOLD HOSPITALITY

Life moves at a whirlwind pace, and if there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s the importance of passion in what we do. From the constant relocations of my childhood to the improvisational challenges of running a kitchen, my journey has been about finding joy in the present and embracing change as a catalyst for growth.

Leadership matters. That’s an undeniable truth – the quality and type of leadership we cultivate and practice are paramount. From my journey in big consulting firms to my own innovation advisory practice, from startups to Global 500 companies, the critical success factor remains: leadership is the foundation of open innovation and impactful progress.

The Limitations of Traditional Business

Early on, I naively believed technology alone could drive business success. But, I learned that merely deploying technology was a superficial solution. True innovation doesn’t stem from reducing costs or improving processes alone – it’s a mindset. I recognized a deeper, transformative approach was missing.

Regenerative Leadership

My career-long research introduced me to regenerative leadership. It recognizes businesses as living, breathing ecosystems of individuals with feelings, thoughts, and aspirations – not as combinations of processes, technologies, and data.

To innovate, a leader must adopt a regenerative mindset, the goal being to co-create a humancentered organization. It’s essential to view businesses as more than profit-generating machines.

We have a crisis in leadership. Most people feel undervalued and, hence, disengaged.

Enter digital transformation. Here was a business framework that place people, not processes or technology, at the center of innovation. I embarked on a new path, focusing on startups and their adoption of lean and agile principles, believing corporations had much to learn from these dynamic ecosystems. Yet, a glaring truth emerged: the success of any enterprise boils down to leadership.

Our leadership revolution begins with a mindset shift. When we hire someone, the mindset shouldn’t be, “You will produce because I pay you.” Instead, it should be, “You are a valuable partner in our shared vision, and embrace your whole person.” We must move from commoditizing human agency to valuing and nurturing it.

As we navigate this era of change, it’s crucial to remember leadership isn’t just the way forward – it’s the only way forward.

Ken Polotan is the founder and CEO of T H E O R I, transforming traditional businesses into highperforming, human-centered, and agile digital organizations. Ken is a thought leader, conference speaker, and content producer.

Growing up, moved every year due to my father’s career. It taught me adaptability and the invaluable lesson of being my own best friend. The concept of home became internal - something I carried with me rather than a fixed location. This mindset has driven my career in hospitality, where every day is a new opportunity to connect and create memorable experiences.

My path wasn’t traditional. Starting as a sous chef at 18, I learned the ropes through sheer love for the craft, not for the promise of high financial reward. While others pursued degrees for job security, I found satisfaction in the kitchen, savoring lamb chops as a perk of the job. This wasn’t about the money but about finding fulfillment in daily achievements.

I believe that true success isn’t measured by status or wealth but by the impact we have on others. It’s about helping people evolve into the best versions of themselves and watching them, in turn, inspire future generations. The hospitality industry is my platform for this transformation. It’s a space where I can influence lives, not just through service but through leadership and mentorship.

The future I envision is one where our passion fuels our purpose. It’s about leaving a legacy through people by inspiring and enabling them to surpass even their wildest expectations. As I continue to build Unfold Hospitality, I aim to foster environments where teams thrive, guests feel valued, and every interaction is an opportunity to uplift and transform.

In the end, life is about more than just making a mark. It’s about the lives we touch along the way and the stories we help others unfold.

PIVOTING ISN’T JUST ABOUT REACTING TO CHANGE; IT’S ABOUT ANTICIPATING IT AND EMBRACING IT AS A PROACTIVE STRATEGY.”

GARY SHAPIRO, CEO OF THE CONSUMER TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION

Innovation isn’t just a buzzword. It’s a way of life, a tool that shapes our world, and a mindset that fosters resilience. I believe in this principle so deeply that the Consumer Technology Association’s (CTA)® townhouse on Capitol Hill is known as “Innovation House,” and we have my favorite phrase, “Innovate or Die” emblazoned in giant letters on the wall. After over four decades in the tech industry, including over three decades as head of CTA, I’ve realized that innovation isn’t just about making changes; it’s about embracing the unknown, learning from your experiences, and being willing to pivot and shift direction when necessary.

I’ve had my fair share of pivots, starting with my unexpected path to Georgetown Law School. After arriving in Washington, D.C., as a new law student with no money, I took a job at a congressional office. That job led to a position at a law firm, and, eventually, to CTA, a trade association that fascinated me with its dynamic trade shows. The excitement of seeing companies show their innovations side-by-side was unparalleled. Over the years, I watched CTA grow from 40 members to over 1300, turning our trade event, CES®, into the largest of its kind worldwide.

In both business and life, I’ve learned that a rigid plan can be a hindrance. You need to be flexible, listen to feedback, and adjust accordingly. This philosophy is at the heart of my book, “Pivot or Die.” Businesses rarely start with a perfect idea. Instead, they evolve through constant iteration and adaptation. That’s why I always tell the companies exhibiting in Eureka Park, our home for startups at CES, that they should be open to feedback that transforms their understanding of what their product or service is or could be. The same principle applies to personal decisions - whether it’s a job, education, or life choices, the key is to learn and adapt.

I’ve seen firsthand that pivoting is crucial. Life throws curveballs, and the ability to pivot can turn challenges into opportunities. Just look at the impressive pivots from companies like Delta, Best Buy, and Uber during the COVID-19 pandemic. (I recount these and dozens of other examples of pivoting in the tech world in “Pivot or Die.”) Pivoting isn’t just about reacting to change; it’s about anticipating it and embracing it as a proactive strategy. The most successful people and organizations pivot ahead of the curve, turning potential setbacks into opportunities. This mindset has kept me ahead in the fast-paced tech industry and driven my personal growth. Everyone should adopt pivoting as a core principle to navigate life and business with agility, transforming challenges into pathways for success.

For anyone navigating their journey, remember that every step and pivot brings you closer to your true path. Stay curious, embrace change, and never stop learning or asking questions.

MY MISSION IS TO BRIDGE THE GAP BETWEEN THE HAVES AND HAVE-NOTS BY LEVERAGING AI TO ENHANCE FINANCIAL BEHAVIORS.”

ANGEL RICH, FOUNDER AT CREDITRICH QR CODE

Don’t die broke. This mantra is at the heart of everything I do, demonstrating the power of financial literacy and justice. Growing up in Washington, D.C., with roots tracing back to sharecroppers in South Carolina, I’ve always been connected to the Black community’s history and struggles. My great-grandparents were among the first Black homeowners in Capitol Hill, and my parents instilled in me the entrepreneurial spirit that guides my path.

was the first in my family to attend college, graduating from Hampton University with six honors. My internship in China for the Beijing Olympics broadened my perspective, while interning at FINRA and winning the Goldman Sachs portfolio challenge cemented my passion for financial regulation and innovation.

At Prudential, I realized my dream by completing the African-American Financial Experience Study, sparking a global Black wealth movement. Our work showed that financial education through churches and small businesses could uplift communities, paving the way for initiatives like JPMorgan Chase’s Advancing Black Pathways.

A mission trip with my church truly shifted my focus. Seeing a young boy in a Wharton t-shirt, knowing he might never attend such an institution, inspired me to quit my job and create equal access to financial literacy. This led to Credit Stacker, the first financial literacy mobile game, which became a global success.

Credit Stacker was just the beginning. Recognizing the potential of AI and data science, we developed an AI fintech app and a neobank, combining mobile banking, credit reporting, and online payments. This tool can forecast and improve credit scores based on current behavior.

Financial justice is not just a slogan for me; it’s the nucleus of operating the world. Every significant upheaval in history has been rooted in financial injustice. My mission is to bridge the gap between the haves and have-nots by leveraging AI to enhance financial behaviors that lead to wealth accumulation.

Homelessness and financial disparity have always driven my work. From feeding the homeless as a child to sneaking out at night in Africa to provide shoes and food for a boarding school, these experiences have shaped my commitment to financial justice.

As a data scientist, realized the power of algorithms to solve complex problems. At Prudential, I developed an algorithm for inflation, proving I could create solutions for any challenge. This propelled me to dedicate my life to developing technologies that promote financial equity and justice.

So, I say it again: Don’t die broke. My life’s work is to ensure everyone has the tools and knowledge for financial stability and generational wealth. Together, we can make financial justice a reality.

ART AND CULTURE ARE NOT JUST ELEMENTS OF SOCIETY - THEY ARE ITS VERY SOUL.”

KRISTINA NOELL, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR AT ANACOSTIA BUSINESS IMPROVEMENT DISTRICT

Progress isn’t just a metric; it’s a mindset. I envision a world where art is at the heart of innovation, powering inclusive economic growth and nurturing a vibrant, diverse, and connected society.

My journey has been fueled by a lifelong commitment to learning - both through formal education and the invaluable experiences life offers. I’ve embraced various roles, primarily in economic devel-opment and tourism, and I am always driven by the passion to make a difference. My diverse experi-ences have been my compass, guiding me to find creative solutions and turn challenges into oppor-tunities. Today, I am proud to be the first and only African American female to serve as a Business Improvement District Director in Washington, D.C. “Don’t ask me how I did it, I just did it, it was hard. just pulled up to the studio and laid it on the line,” as On the Hunt & Chandler perfectly en-capsulates my journey.

Through my work, I’ve come to a profound realization: art and culture are not just elements of socie-ty - they are its very soul. As we navigate a rapidly changing world, the fusion of art and innovation emerges as a beacon for economic and social development. Art inspires change, while innovation transforms ideas into reality. Together, they drive progress, uplift communities, and foster sustaina-ble development.

The challenge before us is to redefine what economic progress means. It’s not merely a series of numbers or statistics. It’s about enriching lives and embedding this enrichment into our collective consciousness. It’s about curating kindness, being thoughtful, and cultivating empathy. By placing art at the center of our endeavors, we unlock a synergy that propels growth, diversity, innovation, and inclusiveness.

This is my call to action: Let us embrace the transformative power of art and innovation. Let us shape a future where creativity is not just celebrated but is a catalyst for change. Together, we can build a world that resonates with joy, celebrates diversity, and fosters a more profound connection among us all.

kristina-noell-3a3a272b anacostiabid.org

DRAFT

NINA ALBERT, GOVT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

CHAPTER TWO

PREVIEWIMAGE INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES, DIGITAL TRANSFORMATION & MANUFACTURING

UNSTUCK LABS

Unleashing Potential

“Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you need the right people to help you overcome challenges.”

Unstuck Labs carves a unique path under the leadership of Wa’il Ashshowwaf, embodying innovation, collaboration, and relentless ambition. It’s a story not just of a company’s success but of transformation and belief in the boundless potential within us all.

“We’re a startup studio with a twist, combining the best of an accelerator, software agency, and a hyper-learning community of founders,” shares Wai’il of the company’s mission. “We’re not here just to advise but to invest, build, and grow alongside our founders.”

A Desert Revelation

The journey began not in the confines of a traditional office but in the expansiveness of the Middle East desert. “About 35 years ago, I was there with an American family, Wa’il recounts. “Our journey took an unexpected turn when our SUV became hopelessly stuck in the sand. Our efforts worsened the situation. I spotted some locals in the distance and waved them over. Within 60 seconds, they got us unstuck.”

This experience laid the foundation for Unstuck Labs - highlighting the power of external support and fresh perspectives. He explains:

“That moment taught me a crucial lesson: Sometimes, no matter how hard you try, you need the right people to help you overcome challenges. This experience stayed with me, instilling the belief that collaboration and external support can be key to solving complex problems.”

The Genesis of Unstuck Labs

Years later, after a thriving corporate career and profound experiences with startups, this lesson resurfaced. Wa’il, along with a childhood friend, Ibrahem Alhaidari, set forth to create an accelerator unlike any other. Together, they had observed a common thread among founders: they were getting stuck and needed someone to help them get unstuck. From this ethos, they set

a daunting challenge to build an inclusive and diverse accelerator.

“We conducted 100 meetups in 24 months to learn as much as we could about founders and their needs. Out of this, Unstuck Labs was born,” Wa’il asserts. They envisioned a place where ideas aren’t just shared but executed, where founders aren’t just nurtured but thrive.

Innovation as a Mindset

Wa’il and Unstuck Labs define innovation simply but profoundly: “It’s about saying ‘why not’ instead of ‘why,’ turning doubt into action.”

At Unstuck Labs, this philosophy drives a culture of resilience, adaptability, and a ‘why not’ approach that challenges the status quo and embraces the unknown. “That’s where the magic happens – in the doing, not just the dreaming,” Wa’il affirms.

The company’s philosophy on innovation extends to ‘innovation elasticity.’ Unstuck Labs constantly adapts, is resilient, is open to change, and is ready to pivot its strategies in response to new insights and ideas. That’s being innovative.

A Vision for the Future

The Power of Flow

“The tipping point for Unstuck Labs was adopting Hyper-Learning Principles, enabling us to function in a state of ‘flow’ as a company. Flow is a psychological state where individuals or teams operate at their peak cognitive and emotional levels, of being so engrossed in tasks that everything else fades away, leading to high productivity and creativity,” Wa’il notes. This psychological state of peak performance and creativity has become the cornerstone of their success, fostering an environment of collective intelligence and heightened performance.

The culture within is based on positivity, self-determination, and psychological safety. According to Wa’il, teams feel secure, valued, and motivated to take on challenges, which leads to innovative solutions and a dynamic workplace culture. “This approach has been a game-changer in how we adapt, learn, and excel in the rapidly evolving tech landscape,” says Wa’il.

Wa’il’s ambitions for Unstuck Labs are boundless. We are redefining the startup ecosystem by establishing ourselves as the leading software agency and startup studio—one that builds, funds, and fosters innovation. Our secret sauce thats hard to copy, is an integrated approach where builders, founders, and funders collaborate transparently and strategically. Committed to supporting hundreds of diverse startups annually, we have a clear moonshot: to launch and lead 1,000 successful startups by 2030.

The Unstuck Infinity: A Symbol of Transformation

“The Unstuck Infinity logo isn’t a typical infinity symbol; it is missing a piece – a deliberate design choice,” Wa’il reveals. “It symbolizes our own transformative journey, from a state of feeling stuck to unlocking our infinite potential.” That missing piece in Unstuck Labs’ logo represents the untapped potential within us all and is a reminder that there’s always room for growth, improvement, and innovation.

UnStuck Labs has emerged as a catalyst for change, propelling startups from the realms of imagination to impactful realization. They are a beacon for all aspiring innovators, a testament to the belief that with the right support, a persistent ‘why not’ attitude, and a commitment to collective growth, anything is possible.

BRESHNA.IO

Lightning Strikes in Game Creation

Breshna.io is a barrier-breaking platform.

It is a game maker platform that empowers a non-tech, non-gamer audience to create, share, and monetize their own video games with no code and at lightning speed. With Breshna, everyone can create snackable games for entertainment, educational, marketing, and training purposes, like Canva for video games. At its essence, Breshna is the Pashto word for lightning – and this lighting has struck the heart of the gaming industry.

“We’re breaking the time, skills, and cost barriers around making games,” says Mariam Nusrat, founder and CEO of Breshna.io, “Our mission is to empower the next 100 million people so they can tell their stories through video games.” This democratization of game creation allows teachers, students, small businesses, and social activists to transform their ideas into engaging games. Breshna.io’s no-code, click-and-choose interface provides templates for various game types, from runner games to puzzles to word games, all shareable via a simple URL.

Breshna.io’s platform is a testament to this vision of making game creation accessible to all. “On Breshna.io, we have templates that you can use to create Super Mario-like games where you’re catching even numbers and dodging odd numbers,” she explains. This innovative approach has garnered immense traction, with over 170,000 registered game makers creating over 150,000 video games with more than 5 million game clicks. Breshna’s raised $2.5 million from investors like Paris Hilton, Randi Zuckerberg, Lisa Carmen Wang, and Bill Ackman’s family office Table Management, and “a bunch of really exciting tech industry experts and celebrity investors.”

Breaking Barriers

Mariam’s journey to founding Breshna.io is a story of unexpected turns and bold innovation. Born and raised in Pakistan, Mariam’s path from an economist and education policy expert at the World Bank to the tech frontier seems improbable. The inception of Breshna.io was a response to a glaring gap in purposeful communication and education. Mariam’s realization that traditional methods like brochures and workshops were insufficient for behavior change led her to leverage her passion for gaming and create a social-impact gaming studio. Through this experience, she identified the immense demand for purposeful video games being stifled by the

“There is a world where they can co-exist –and we don’t have to peel the kids away from their screens. We can make that screen time meaningful and allow them to consume games and become content creators: the types of games kids can create when they’re empowered are insane.”

A Carnival of Creativity: Monetizing in the Metaverse

time, skills, and cost barriers of making games. This unique background fueled her vision of creating a platform for anyone to create video games without coding or design skills. “I grew up playing games like SimCity, where I was learning about urban planning, without even knowing I was learning about urban planning,” Mariam reflects.

The Educational Revolution through Gaming

While Breshna has a vast spectrum of use cases, this visionary founder strongly believes in the transformative power of video games in education. “Video games have an impact that far transcends the virtual boundaries in which we play them,” she asserts.

Recognizing teachers’ challenges in integrating games into their curriculum, Breshna.io empowers them to create snackable educational video games aligned with their lesson plans. It helps teachers transition from passive consumers to active creators of technology: “Teachers and students are the biggest content creators on the planet: we give them the power to create their own video games.” This shift in educational technology is a core tenet of Breshna.io’s mission.

“Games are a universal language; often, we look at kids, and it seems as if gaming and education are at war with each other,” says Mariam.

The world of AI/no-code content creation, user-generated games, and web3 is rapidly expanding, and Breshna is uniquely positioned at the intersection of these emerging tech trends. Breshna’s product roadmap includes an AI-powered text-to-game engine to create games even faster, further simplifying game creation for content creators. Breshna.io also plans to revolutionize how game creators can showcase and monetize their work. Introducing a carnival-themed metaverse, the Breshnaverse, where game makers will have their stands, akin to stalls in a physical carnival, bringing a playful and innovative approach to content sharing and monetization. The platform uses blockchain technology for secure and transparent transactions – a content creator’s dream come true.

Empowering a Global Community

Breshna.io’s global reach is a testament to its universal appeal. With a significant user base in countries like Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, Nigeria, and India, the platform reflects a diverse range of voices and stories. Breshna’s vision extends beyond mere game creation; it’s about democratizing narrative control in the gaming world – by diversifying the content we see in games and other content.

Anyone can explore the creative possibilities on Breshna.io. Whether it’s a game about makeup trivia, a tool for climate action education, or educating girls and women about reproductive health, the potential is limitless. Breshna.io isn’t just a platform; it’s transforming how we learn, engage, and innovate. It’s a movement towards a more inclusive, creative, and empowered world of gaming.

info@gamingfordev.com

breshnagame

breshnagame breshna.io

The Knowledge Revolution

In today’s fast-paced business world, knowledge inefficiency is a silent drain on resources, costing businesses an astonishing $35M annually per 1,000 employees. Knowledge-efficient enterprises’ average returns on revenues are nearly three times that of median Fortune 500 companies. Amidst this backdrop, Enquire AI emerges as a revolutionary force, spearheaded by Founder and CEO Cenk Sidar.

The Innovation

Enquire AI is on a mission to make organizations and professionals knowledge efficient. How? That’s their patented blend of AI, data science, and human intelligence. “Think of it as a global knowledge platform where experts are onboarded to create a hybrid of advanced ChatGPT, LinkedIn plus a Quora system,” reveals Cenk.

And it delivers context and analysis faster than any other knowledge platform on the planet. However, that’s not all. It bolsters the global knowledge economy and leverages its insights to aid CEOs, executives, advisors, and leaders make better decisions. Cenk shares: “We empower many consultants with expert business knowledge in freelance roles, and we help them earn additional revenues by monetizing their head knowledge.”

He elaborates: “Empowering our clients with a complete range of perspectives, we deliver the intelligence they need to make smarter decisions. We also give clients the freedom to go deeper and explore issues on their own terms. We have created a world where human subject matter experts and machines collaborate to produce rapid, verifiable, and actionable insights. It is a tool: we are building tools to

augment professionals with AI. We are not just building a platform but leading a revolution in how knowledge is accessed and utilized in the business world.”

Enquire AI’s patented AI technology combines contextual and lexical NLP AI matching, 3d skills scoring, and performance ratings to deliver the most relevant experts to queries. It also recently enhanced its technology with a ChatGPT-powered search guide, Ayda™, to strengthen queries and provide quick snapshots of relevant insights. Combining this powerful technology with human expertise results in unmatched insights delivery.

The Innovator

Trained as a political scientist and economist, Cenk’s journey started at the intersection of international business, global economy, and international affairs. His unique educational and cultural experiences shaped his understanding of global dynamics. “I grew up in Istanbul, studied in Europe and the U.S., which gave me a holistic view of global business and politics,” he recalls. “My job was to provide hands-on advice to these businesses to grow their operations and investments in emerging and frontier markets. I saw a gap in how decision-makers access local insights. I wanted to eliminate the middleman, offering direct and faster access to global expertise.”

Cenk’s expertise in navigating complex emerging markets set the foundation for his future endeavors. He provided invaluable insights to Fortune 100 companies, helping them understand intricate market

dynamics and political risks. “Navigating these markets requires more than just business acumen; it demands an intricate understanding of the local political landscape,” he explains. “My role was to demystify emerging markets, where politics and business are deeply intertwined.”

The idea for Enquire AI emerged from his realization of the inefficiencies in traditional consulting. “I saw a gap in how decision-makers access local insights. I wanted to eliminate the middleman, offering direct and faster access to global expertise,” he recalls.

The Impact Enquire AI’s flagship product, Network Pulse, became a knowledge-sharing game-changer. Network Pulse is a Q&A tool for business decision-makers offering refined matching and monetary rewards for experts. This tool provides a refined matching system, connecting inquiries with the most relevant experts from its vast network. With over 50,000 professionals across 180 countries, the platform ensures high-quality, actionable insights. It is not just a platform; it’s a global knowledge ecosystem.

A significant aspect of Enquire AI’s mission is empowering global knowledge workers. From top-tier consultants to local business managers in Nigeria, the platform allows these experts to monetize their knowledge. “We’re not just facilitating knowledge exchange; we’re enabling professionals worldwide to benefit financially from their expertise. We help experts monetize their insights, offering equal pay irrespective of geographical location. This way, we’re contributing to a more equitable knowledge economy,” enthuses Cenk.

In his words: “We always focus on the content. It means that most of the consulting companies provide static reports. For instance, if I had written a report on the South African pharmaceutical industry five years ago, that content may not be relevant today. The real-time questions and answers power our platform. On our platform, a user can ask a question and receive multiple expert responses.”

Enquire AI’s network encompasses a diverse range of professionals, including medical doctors, consultants from top firms like

“We are not just building a platform but leading a revolution in how knowledge is accessed and utilized in the business world.”

McKinsey, BCG, EY, Deloitte, and even car dealership managers in Nigeria or Bolivia. Approximately 30% of Fortune 100 companies use the platform for quick inquiries and indepth consulting sessions involving hour-long expert calls. This service caters to a global clientele, extending beyond quick responses to more substantial, deep-dive consultations.

Enquire AI blends generative AI to enhance its platform. “AI and human expertise complement each other. Our goal is to build tools that augment professionals with AI, while also allowing AI to learn from human expertise,” he elucidates. “Enquire AI combines networking, questions, and responses with generative AI tools, fostering a cycle where machines learn from humans and vice versa.”

In essence, Enquire AI’s platform democratizes access to knowledge, allowing professionals from Fortune 100 companies to consultants to engage and learn.

The Future Cenk envisions Enquire AI playing a pivotal role in shaping a knowledge-efficient future. Positioned strategically in Washington, D.C., he sees the platform contributing significantly to the burgeoning tech hub. “D.C.’s unique position allows us to tap into a rich array of resources, making it an ideal base for innovation in AI and the knowledge economy,” he notes.

Looking ahead to the future of Enquire AI and the broader AI landscape: “The future is about creating a symbiotic relationship between AI and human intelligence. We’re at the forefront of this revolution, right here in Washington, D.C.,” Cenk concludes with pride. Enquire AI is a testament to innovation’s power in this era of rapid technological advancement, transforming how businesses access and leverage knowledge.

Cenk Sidar Co-Founder & CEO cenk@enquire.ai

+1 (202) 4031729 cenksidar

Move Beyond AI-Curious to AI-Powered

As we enter the largest technological revolution of our generation, Virgent AI is guiding leaders and industries beyond AI-curious to AIpowered.

Based in Annapolis, Maryland, this forwardthinking AI-centric technology startup specializes in developing and deploying advanced AI agents and AI-enabled applications to solve real-world business problems.

At their core, their mission is to transform how companies and agencies operate, leveraging leading AI technology and safety protocols to drive new possibilities of efficiencies, innovation, and user experiences in the modern business landscape. #aiforgood

The Paradigm Shift Will Drive A New Age of Innovation

Although, AI and Machine Learning has been in existence for over 75 years, with the advent of Large Language Models (LLMs) like ChatGPT and Gemini and Generative AI tools

company needed to be born to support this paradigm shift in partnership with his cofounder, Seema Alexander, and their founding team: Virgent AI was formed.

personalize experiences for millions, forecast trends for strategic planning, personalize customer interactions and information access, and understand language to recognize intent. With these major advancements, it can and is revolutionizing how businesses operate, employees work, and customer’s experience your brand.

discovery workshops to determine the best starting point, and use service blueprinting to identify processes and bottlenecks where AI/ ML can make a significant impact and deliver the highest ROI–sparking innovation, fueling new products, and dramatically boosting operational efficiency.

This strategic move is complemented by future joint ventures and the development of AI-enabled business toolkits. As part of their growth strategy, the company will also be seeking strategic acquisitions to enhance their capabilities and market presence.

“Virgent AI is positioned to create products and toolsets that will redefine industry standards and drive the future of AI in businesses, governments and industries worldwide,” says Seema Alexander, Co-founder & President of Virgent AI,

Ready to Innovate?

Virgent AI is a trailblazer at the intersection of leading-edge artificial intelligence and modernday business, helping forward-thinking leaders move their organizations beyond AI-curious to AI-powered.

If you’re ready to unlock the full potential of AI for your business and evolve into an AI-empowered leader in your industry, Virgent AI is ready to guide you through this transformative journey. For more information, visit virgent.ai.

Example of an AI-prompted image from Dall-E.

like MidJourney & Runway ML, and the early stages of AI Agents, the accessibility, the power, and the possibilities of the technology took the world by storm.

For Jesse Alton, the CEO, Virgent AI, who has always been a futurist at the cusp of bleedingedge technology like the Metaverse and AR/ VR–including co-founding the Open Metaverse Interoperability Group (OMI) and advising many companies in the space, he started to see a new type of paradigm shift with artificial intelligence.

AI is not only an emerging technology– it is powerful enough to change the way we operate in business and life–and with the current and ongoing advancements on the horizon–it became clear that it will be bigger than the advent of the internet and the car combined.

This insight meant that we are on the cusp of a new kind of innovation cycle –and Jesse decided at that moment that a new type of

With any emerging tech there will always be early adopters, but what is different with AI at this stage is the adoption cycles are much more accelerated – putting many executives and founders in a new found predicament Alton states,“they know they need to embrace AI, but lack a real understanding of how the technology can be used and how to mitigate some of the known and unknown risks, so they are unsure of where to begin.”

Virgent AI solves that problem. They guide leaders beyond AI-curious to AI-powered as a thought partner and their development arm– through the full cycle of discovery, rapid prototyping, and development of useful AI solutions.

The Possibilities and Potential Are Far Greater Than You Think AI has evolved dramatically, and will revolutionize how businesses operate.

Today, it is important to understand that AI can analyze vast amounts of data for better insights, automate complex workflows in minutes,

AI agents are evolving from simple chatbots to sophisticated systems that can plan and execute complex analysis and repetitive tasks, through prompts and conversational UI. Looking ahead, they are moving toward building AI Agent clusters that can manage entire business processes and collaborate seamlessly with humans–an emerging area that Virgent AI plans to be on the forefront of.

Virgent AI: Customer-Centric, Useful AI Solutions

AI is a Lego piece, not an all-in-one solution. There are things AI can and can’t do well, and it is easy to start wasting resources searching for shortcuts in the wrong places. The journey into AI doesn’t have to be perplexing for executives and founders–especially if you are working with a company like Virgent AI.

Virgent AI has a business-first mentality versus a technology first mandate. Meaning, the company doesn’t believe in forcing AI into existing systems–they focus on value creation and useful outcomes. They use a humancentered design principles and SMEs in their

This approach ensures AI adoption is both strategic, user-centric, and useful, but also mitigates AI-related risks, ensuring that our clients can confidently embrace AI without disruption.

Virgent AI is Shaping the Future of AI Today & in the Future

At the core of their strategy is the creation of modular AI agents, which serve as building blocks for sophisticated automated workflows. The company is also dedicated to invest in research and development to develop intellectual property for niche industries through both internal experimentation and real-world application, ensuring their solutions remain at the cutting edge of technology.

The company’s vision extends beyond just technological advancement; it’s committed to harnessing local DMV talent to drive AI innovation for the companies they serve.

Looking ahead, Virgent AI has set its sights on expanding into the federal sector, with plans to offer AI-enhanced public services and advanced cybersecurity solutions to government clients.

CONSUMER TECHNOLOGY ASSOCIATION

Forging the Future of Technology Innovation

For the past 100 years, the Consumer Technology Association (CTA)® has been a driving force in technology, transforming ideas into groundbreaking innovations that enhance everyday life. Founded in 1924 as the Radio Manufacturers Association, CTA has grown to represent over 1,300 companies in the $505 billion U.S. consumer technology industry, impacting more than 18 million U.S. jobs. This remarkable journey underscores CTA’s unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and supporting the technological ecosystem.

A Beacon of Innovation: CES

At the heart of CTA’s efforts to promote innovation is CES, the world’s most powerful technology event. In January, CES 2024 brought together around 140,000 attendees, including entrepreneurs, innovators, policymakers, and industry leaders, to showcase the latest technological advancements. Gary Shapiro, CTA’s CEO, emphasizes: “CES is the premier global innovation event. While it attracts world leaders, politicians, and government officials, its core focus is on entrepreneurs and innovators. Our mission is to facilitate innovation, as we believe it holds the key to solving some of the world’s most fundamental problems.”

CES provides a platform for companies to unveil their newest products and technologies, making it a launchpad for innovation. “CES provides opportunities for global companies to make major announcements, startups to showcase their innovations and secure their big break, and for forming deals and partnerships. It also offers the serendipity and wonder of discovering and experiencing new technologies for the first time,” Gary adds. The event is renowned for its diverse range of exhibitors, from industry giants to pioneering startups.

Nurturing Startups: Eureka Park

One of the standout features of CES is Eureka Park, a dedicated area for startups to present their cutting-edge ideas. This initiative reflects CTA’s belief that some of the most groundbreaking innovations come from small, agile companies.

“Our mission is to facilitate innovation, as we believe it holds the key to solving some of the world’s most fundamental problems.”

Eureka Park has become a crucial platform for startups to gain visibility, secure funding, and form strategic partnerships. The success stories emerging from this hub of innovation demonstrate CTA’s commitment to supporting the next generation of tech entrepreneurs.

Advocacy for Pro-Innovation Policies

CTA plays a vital role in advocating for policies that protect and promote the innovation economy. Through its work on Capitol Hill, CTA ensures that U.S. policymakers understand the importance of fostering a regulatory environment conducive to technological advancement. “With our mission focused on facilitating innovation, we believe innovation will solve some of the most fundamental problems in the world,” Gary says. “We have partnered with the United Nations, which has identified fundamental human securities: the right to clean air, the right to clean water, the right to healthcare, the right to food, and the right to community involvement. And at our request last October, they actually added another one, and that’s access to technology.”

CTA’s advocacy efforts span a wide range of issues, including artificial intelligence, 5G,

The advantage of these standards is that they help establish markets and make products accessible to consumers.”

cybersecurity, digital health, self-driving technologies, and trade. By engaging with policymakers and educating them about innovation’s benefits, CTA helps create a landscape where technology can thrive.

Setting Industry Standards

A significant aspect of CTA’s work is its role in developing industry standards. The association’s Technology and Standards program involves over 70 committees and roughly 1,100 participants, creating blueprints that guide the development of various technologies.

“Our role is to bring together companies interested in various verticals or collective action. We collaborate to promote innovation and set numerous standards,” Gary explains.

“We recently established our 30th healthfocused standard and partnered with various organizations, including many in the Washington area and several medical colleges, particularly healthcare and entrepreneurship. We operate within the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) guidelines as a standard-setting organization. We welcome anyone, including entrepreneurs, to help develop standards in emerging areas.

For instance, CTA’s work was crucial to developing standards and advocating for the U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s 2022 authorization of over-the-counter hearing aids, making hearing assistance more accessible and affordable. This achievement highlights the impact of CTA’s standardssetting efforts on improving the quality of life for millions of people.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

CTA recognizes that diverse perspectives are essential for driving innovation. The association invests in programs and partnerships to boost diversity and inclusion within the technology industry. “Innovation can only reach its fullest potential when the workforce includes a blend of different voices, backgrounds, genders, ethnicities, and perspectives,” Gary asserts.

CTA’s initiatives include working groups focused on women in technology, as well as a $10 million commitment – announced at CES 2019 – to venture firms and funds focused on women, people of color, and other underrepresented startups and entrepreneurs. The CTA Foundation funds programs and connects stakeholders to promote technology that enhances the lives of these communities.

Driving Growth with Insights

CTA provides its members with valuable insights to help them navigate the everchanging technology landscape. With over 100 reports and 30 consumer studies each year, CTA provides members with timely and

reliable data on the latest trends in technology, including industry forecasts and sector-specific research and analysis covering topics including AI, audio/video, automotive and mobility, digital health, gaming, retail, smart home and more. These insights support informed decisionmaking and strategic planning, ensuring companies stay ahead of the curve.

Celebrating a Century of Impact

As 2024 marks CTA’s 100th anniversary, it reflects on a legacy of advocacy, standardsetting, and fostering innovation. As the organization celebrates the milestone with a series of events at CES and the CTA Innovation House, the anniversary provides an opportunity to honor the association’s history and envision the future. “It’s a moment for us to look ahead to the next 100 years and share our vision for how technology can and will shape our future,” Gary remarks.

Innovations for the Future

The future of innovation is bright, with emerging technologies poised to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges. Gary is particularly excited about advances in healthcare, generative AI, and self-driving vehicles. “Healthcare, generative AI, and selfdriving vehicles will fundamentally change the world,” he states. “Innovation is a tool that produces tremendous products and is going to change how people live their lives, whether it’s in education, healthcare, communication, transportation, food, shelter - every aspect.”

CTA’s role in advancing these technologies is crucial, as the association advocates for policies that support innovation and create growth opportunities. By fostering a culture of

collaboration and inclusion, CTA ensures that the technology industry remains a dynamic and transformative force.

The Consumer Technology Association’s century-long legacy is a testament to the power of innovation to change lives and drive progress. As we look to the future, CTA’s commitment to advocacy, standardsetting, and fostering innovation will continue to shape the technology landscape, creating a better world for all.

PODTECHS Internationalization: Podcasting Across Languages with Artificial Voices

In the halls of the National Press Club in Washington, D.C., two organizations met in 2019. PodTechs and Baycrest became partners in podcasting. Fast forward half a decade later, and in 2024, the duo accomplished a rare feat: Defy Dementia, which unpacks the significant effects of caregiving on brain health, was nominated for a prestigious Webby award. Fellow nominees included CNN, Johnson & Johnson, Vox Media, and Boston Globe Media. How did Defy Dementia come into the same circles as these juggernauts?

The New York Times calls the Webby Awards “the Internet’s highest honor.” It is a leading international award honoring excellence on the Internet, established in 1996 during the Web’s infancy. The Webbys are presented by the International Academy of Digital Arts and Sciences (IADAS), a 3000-plus member judging body. The Academy comprises Executive Members - leading Internet experts, business figures, luminaries, visionaries, and creative celebrities - and Associate Members who are former Webby Winners, Nominees, and other Internet professionals.

Funded by the Public Health Agency of Canada, Defy Dementia met the requirements for both official languages of Canada, English and French, by leveraging artificial voices.

“We started tinkering with artificial intelligence and its ability to be the voices for podcast content in 2019,” shares Dustin Canter, PodTechs CEO. “At the time, we were producing a bilingual podcast for DMV local Diego Castañeda in Spanish and English. The technology was raw and had a long way to go, but I decided for PodTechs to focus on the romance languages, prepare ourselves, and perhaps an opportunity would come along in the future where we could put our research to work.”

During the early years of this decade, PodTechs and Baycrest continued producing monthly podcast content for the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation. In 2023, the opportunity appeared, and an additional podcast series launched, Defy Dementia. Originally recorded in English, every podcast episode is additionally produced in French using artifical voices.

“Proper nouns, non-native words, and localized accents continue to hamper the process,” Dustin explains. “It’s definitely better now than

five years ago. Some older adults who are native French speakers testify that they didn’t realize that humans did not speak the French version. As we build for the future, leveraging artificial voices to publicize health information and ensure citizens of the world have access to content regardless of their native language, we see a future that blends human and artificial voices. The trust from humans with the support of their artificial ‘teammates.’ There is no better sector of industry to apply voice innovation than to brain health, mental wellness, and giving people a brighter tomorrow.

Episode 4 features Marylander Ernestine Shepherd, who the Guinness Book of World Records previously recognized as the oldest competitive female bodybuilder in the world. As she approaches 90 years of age, she lives in Baltimore.

Defy Dementia

Episode 4: Let’s Get Physical –Pumping Up Brain Health

With over 1,000 podcast episodes under its belts, PodTechs recently went to market in a new category for project management software. Built in GoogleCloud, PodTechs makes it easy to manage podcast episodes in one app for faster delivery. It helps marketing, communications, and content teams that are frustrated with endless technical and tedious tasks or staff spread across various time zones. The software aligns every element of production, from planning to recording to promoting.

PodTechs is renowned for its legacy of innovation and excellence in the podcasting industry. As pioneers in podcast production and promotion, the company has consistently pushed boundaries to create compelling content that resonates with audiences worldwide.

Défier la démence

Épisode 4 Soyons actifs –

Renforcer la santé cérébrale

Founded in the District of Columbia, headquartered in Maryland, with a podcast studio in Virginia, and a team of 18 spread worldwide, PodTechs is a quintessential DMV story of innovation that has gone global.

The PodTechs Podcast Equity Fund is an investment vehicle specifically tailored for the podcasting ecosystem. This fund empowers podcasters, podcast networks, and related ventures by providing the financial backing and resources necessary for growth and success. By investing in promising projects and creators, PodTechs aims to foster innovation, expand reach, and enhance the overall quality of content within the podcasting space.

The mission of the PodTechs Podcast Equity Fund is simple yet powerful: to drive the growth of the podcasting industry by supporting its most creative and visionary talents. The company believes in the potential of podcasts to inform, entertain, and inspire and is committed to nurturing this potential through strategic investments and partnerships.

Dustin aptly concludes: “PodTechs is the Podcast Operating System for Producers, Hosts, Guests, and Technicians. Our mission is to help organizations amplify their voice, engage audiences, and build credibility within their communities.”

“Our mission is to help organizations amplify their voice, engage audiences, and build credibility within their communities.”

SHANDA STUDIO Empowering Voices to Share Their Stories Through Podcasting

In a world where storytelling has the power to inspire, educate, and connect people, two Georgetown MBA students, Dumi and Paul, have embarked on a mission to democratize the podcasting medium with their innovative startup, Shanda Studio. Born out of Dumi’s personal experience growing up in Zimbabwe, where media freedom was stifled, and diverse local stories were scarce, Shanda Studio aims to simplify the podcasting process, making it accessible to beginners who wish to amplify their voices and share their unique perspectives.

Dumi’s journey to create Shanda Studio began with a desire to showcase the positive change-makers in his community, countering the negative narratives often portrayed. Despite initial setbacks, such as a stolen camera, the advent of technology and the rise of podcasting presented a new opportunity. During the lockdown, Dumi launched “Zimbabwean Voices,” a podcast that featured inspiring individuals shaping their community for the better. The show garnered a dedicated audience and provided a sense of fulfillment for both Dumi and his listeners.

However, Dumi quickly realized that the learning curve for podcast editing was steep, a sentiment echoed by many aspiring podcasters. Research revealed that 75% of new podcasters don’t surpass 3 to 5 episodes due to the fatigue caused by the numerous micro-tasks involved in the process, particularly editing. Recognizing this pain point, Dumi reached out to his friend Paul, whom he had met while studying for their undergraduate degrees in Scotland. Paul, now a fellow Georgetown MBA student with a background in software engineering and product management, shared Dumi’s vision, and together they set out to create a solution.

Shanda Studio was born as a software solution designed to simplify the editing process for beginners. The startup’s name, derived from a Zimbabwean word meaning “to work in order to achieve something” and “to function,” embodies their mission to work hard in democratizing podcasting and help convert people’s stories into polished podcasts. By eliminating the complexities of traditional audio editing, Shanda Studio provides an affordable and user-friendly platform for anyone looking to start a podcast, whether they are professors, students, club leaders, or simply individuals with a unique perspective to share.

The team’s diverse backgrounds and complementary skills have been instrumental in bringing Shanda Studio to life. Dumi’s entrepreneurial

spirit, and sales expertise, combined with Paul’s technical prowess and ability to distill complex problems into simplified solutions, have created a powerful partnership. The startup has also benefited from the support of the Georgetown community, including the Georgetown Ventures Club’s launchpad program, the venture accelerator program, and grant funding through an MBA startup fellowship, Bark Tank, and winning the Rocket Pitch competition.

Shanda Studio has already made significant strides in its mission to democratize podcasting, particularly among college students. The platform has successfully launched and is gaining traction, with numerous college students not only using the platform but also becoming paying customers. This early success validates Shanda Studio’s vision and highlights the demand for a user-friendly, all-in-one podcasting solution.

Dumi and Paul, the founders of Shanda Studio, strategically chose the Georgetown community as their initial target audience. The university’s vibrant and engaged student body, known for its diverse range of opinions and perspectives, provided the perfect testing ground for the platform. By empowering these students to easily create and share their podcasts, Shanda Studio has fostered a culture of storytelling, dialogue, and understanding within the Georgetown community.

As Shanda Studio continues to grow and evolve, the company plans to build upon its success at Georgetown and expand its reach to other college communities. By focusing on the unique needs and interests of college students, Shanda Studio is not only cultivating a new generation of podcasters but also creating a platform for meaningful conversations and the exchange of ideas. With its proven track record and growing user base, Shanda Studio is well-positioned to scale its operations and bring its innovative podcasting solution to a wider audience.

Whether you have a passion for social justice, a love for the arts, or simply a desire to share your experiences, Shanda Studio provides the tools to make your voice heard. In a world where everyone has a story to tell, Shanda Studio is revolutionizing the way we share our narratives.

By empowering beginners to create podcasts with ease, Dumi and Paul are not only democratizing the medium but also fostering a global community of storytellers.

Dumi Mabhena

Paul Kassar

UNLEASHING INNOVATION: THE THINKNIMBLE REVOLUTION

“We are a product design and software development agency that turns clients into confident tech leaders who understand their customers and build great tech.”

ThinkNimble is a guiding light of innovation. It’s carved out a niche that’s as unique as its approach to technology and entrepreneurship. Founded on the principle that every startup is an experiment waiting to unfold, ThinkNimble stands out not just for what it does but also how it does it.

Rethinking Innovation

In 2018, a team of seasoned startup leaders founded ThinkNimble with a clear goal: to create the agency they wished existed during their entrepreneurial beginnings. Co-founders Neil Shah (CEO), Marcy Ewald (COO), and William Huster (CTO), who bring over fifteen years of experience lighting the spark of venture-backed startups, set forth on a venture beyond conventional bounds. Their mission? To establish an agency that transcends mere software development to empower and elevate early-stage companies toward technological and strategic excellence. They aimed for a comprehensive approach, focusing on nurturing the technology, the strategic vision, and the team behind it. ThinkNimble stands as their commitment to this holistic vision, a

sanctuary for entrepreneurial zeal where both developers and clients share a common ambition to innovate, craft, and challenge the status quo.

“We are a product design and software development agency that turns clients into confident tech leaders who understand their customers and build great tech,” Neil Shah declares. ThinkNimble’s clientele, predominantly Series A companies, find themselves at a critical juncture where transitioning from a nascent idea to a burgeoning enterprise requires more than just capital - it demands technical prowess and a professional team to steer the ship. That’s the juncture where ThinkNimble operates successfully.

Experience and Engineering

In a landscape where software development meets visionary entrepreneurship, ThinkNimble stands out for its unique blend of wisdom and technological acumen. The founding trio, embodied by years of navigating the startup ecosystem from its nascent stages to flourishing enterprises, brings an unparalleled mix of entrepreneurial savvy and technical mastery. This combination fuels their capability to envisage and meticulously craft the future of startups on the cutting edge of innovation.

At the heart of ThinkNimble’s ethos is an innovative, iterative philosophy that treats every startup as a distinct experiment. This perspective challenges the one-size-fits-all approach prevalent in the startup world, advocating instead for a nuanced process of hypothesis testing and truth validation. This strategy transcends traditional software development, fostering a deeper understanding and a rigorous exploration of possibilities within the entrepreneurial journey.

In elucidating the agency’s pioneering outlook, Marcy underscores the importance of recognizing the inherent uniqueness of each startup.

“Our theory is that every startup, just like every piece of technology, is

fundamentally an experiment,” asserts the firm’s COO. ThinkNimble’s ethos encourages startups to cherish their individuality and rigorously test the foundations of their business models.

William clarifies that disciplined experimentation is at the core of this approach, dispelling any association of experimentation with mere conjecture. The company’s CTO outlines: “We employ a structured, scientific method to experimentation - complete with hypotheses, variables, and measurable outcomes - laying the groundwork for success in the unpredictable terrain of startup development.” This forward-thinking methodology differentiates ThinkNimble and redefines the blueprint for startup success in the tech landscape.

AI: The Frontier of the Future

In a world captivated by the promises and perils of Artificial Intelligence (AI), ThinkNimble navigates this frontier with a pragmatic optimism. Its adoption of tools like GitHub Copilot has revolutionized the software development process, proving that AI, when harnessed correctly, can amplify human potential rather than diminish it. Yet, ThinkNimble’s foresight in recognizing AI not as a fleeting trend but as a fundamental shift in the industry, positions it at the forefront of innovation.

The Future Unfolded

ThinkNimble envisions a future where it stands as a guiding light for Series A startups, merging deep tech expertise with strategic business acumen. It aims not just for success but to impact the tech world and beyond significantly.

The team aspires to make ThinkNimble the go-to partner for Series A ventures in the US, leveraging their expertise to create a unique blend of technology and entrepreneurship. With ambitions of expanding through

strategic investments and venture creation, the founders underscore the importance of discipline and excellence. This approach signifies ThinkNimble’s commitment to fostering groundbreaking tech innovations, marking its legacy in the startup ecosystem.

A Community of Collaboration

Within the dynamic heartbeat of the Washington DMV’s startup scene, ThinkNimble thrives on the power of its community - a realm where synergy outshines rivalry, transforming every handshake into a spark of innovation. This camaraderie and collective uplift not only fuel ThinkNimble’s ambitions but also set the stage for a region on the brink of achieving unparalleled success.

Embracing the ‘small but mighty’ spirit of the Washington DMV, this agency revels in a network that’s as vibrant as it is nurturing. Here, the founders find solace in the tight bonds among tech pioneers, a community where sharing wisdom and opportunities cultivates an atmosphere of shared growth. Groundbreaking initiatives like DC Startup Week and the DC Tech and Venture Coalition have fortified this fertile environment, seeding the ground for breakthroughs. It’s this blend of unwavering support, rich investment opportunities, and visionary projects that cement the DMV as an irresistibly attractive and cherished haven for innovators.

The ThinkNimble Promise

At its core, ThinkNimble is more than a company; it’s a movement. A collective of dreamers, doers, and disruptors dedicated to the craft of creation. Their story is an inspiration, a reminder that in the world of innovation, the only limit is the breadth of our imagination and the depth of our determination. As they continue to chart their course, one thing is certain: the future is not just something to be predicted; it’s something to be built, one innovation at a time.

ThinkNimble’s co-founders (L to R) Neil Shah, Marcy Ewald, and William Huster

ThinkNimble COO, Marcy Ewald, leads a panel discussion with DC entrepreneurs at DC Startup Week.

The ThinkNimble Team Gathers to Toast a Year Well-Done at Their Annual Holiday Party

Neil speaks to entrepreneurs in office = ThinkNimble CEO, Neil Shah, speaks to a group of international entrepreneurs who are spending the week in Washington, D.C.

VANNADIUM, INC.

“We believe in data sovereignty for everybody and that data should be in the control of those originating it.”

At the forefront of technological innovation, Vannadium, Inc. is a pioneering DeepTech solution provider committed to redefining data security and sovereignty. Through groundbreaking advancements in Blockchain and Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT), Vannadium has created a powerful ecosystem that ensures data is processed and transported globally in under one second, while decarbonizing compute and associated operations. This makes Vannadium a true trailblazer in the industry, offering unmatched speed, trust, and scalability. The company’s CEO and Founder, Rick Gilchrist, encapsulates their mission: “We believe in data sovereignty for the planet and humanity, from consumers to enterprise, and that data should be in the control of those originating it.”

Unleashing the Power of Blockchain

Vannadium’s unique approach to harnessing the capabilities of Blockchain is epitomized in its Blockchain-and-Data-as-a-Service (BaDaaS™) model. This service empowers businesses of all sizes to gain real-time insights from real-time data, enabling them to make informed decisions swiftly and effectively. “Our unique ability to harness speed and scalability on the Blockchain offers an unprecedented service to any business, no matter the size,” Rick explains. This innovation is not just about technology; it’s about enabling businesses to thrive in an increasingly data-driven world.

Groundbreaking Partnerships and Technological Synergy

The synergy between Vannadium and Epigenesis AI will culminate with the creation of the world’s first Blockchain/DLT real-time enabled AI system with military-grade security. This partnership will soon introduce the revolutionary Artificial Intelligence “BrainOS,” a real-time voice responsive system for predictive and generative AI. This breakthrough is set to revolutionize how businesses and industries utilize AI, offering unparalleled security and efficiency.

Dr. Newton Howard: A Visionary Addition

The recent addition of Dr. Newton Howard, renowned neuroscientist affiliated with Oxford University and MIT, as a board member and advisor to Vannadium has accelerated the company’s mission to securitize healthcare data.. Dr. Howard’s pioneering work in furthering medical science’s understanding of the brain, human intelligence and cognition has accelerated the application of novel approaches to diseases such Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s. His expertise in computational neuroscience and brain signal translation is pivotal to Vannadium’s cutting-edge technology.

“Joining forces with Vannadium allows us to accelerate the development of innovative solutions to some of the most pressing neurological challenges of our time,” Dr. Howard shares.

Diffusion™ Technology: A Game-Changer

At the heart of Vannadium’s technological prowess is Diffusion™, a revolutionary networking protocol that ensures real-time data transfer and analysis. Unlike traditional Blockchain systems, which are often slow, expensive, and difficult to scale, Diffusion™ leverages software to achieve unprecedented performance. This technology enhances data integrity and security beyond standard decentralized networks by efficiently recognizing and moving data.

The Vannadium Vault & Atomic23™: Efficiency and Scalability Redefined

Vannadium’s Atomic23™ supports efficient data management and analysis, crucial for handling the extensive data requirements in various research projects, including Dr. Howard’s brain research. Its scalability ensures that large volumes of data are processed without sacrificing performance. This technology facilitates better collaboration among researchers by securely managing data and allowing seamless sharing.

The Vision for the Future: Web4 and Beyond

Vannadium is shaping the future of the internet by looking beyond Web3 toward Web4, emphasizing the creation of energy-efficient and accessible

technology. “For us, it was a passion to get our utility vault system delivered - the need has been here for too long,” says Rick. This commitment drives Vannadium’s mission for an internet where data sovereignty, speed, and environmental sustainability coexist. Vannadium’s innovative approach to blockchain scalability addresses traditional issues of speed, cost, and energy consumption. Their Diffusion™ technology and Atomic23™ platform enhance performance while decarbonizing transactions. “Our goal was to solve Blockchain’s scalability problem without compromising energy efficiency,” Rick explains. By leveraging a unique data processing method, Vannadium can significantly reduce the carbon footprint of data centers.

The vision of Web4 is one where data can be transferred and processed globally in real time, under one second, without the massive energy consumption seen in current systems. Vannadium’s technology allows businesses and individuals to operate with minimal environmental impact, supporting global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. “We’re talking about getting transaction costs down to cents and sub cents for commercial and consumer applications,” Rick elaborates. This approach makes blockchain technology more accessible and significantly reduces operational costs.

Empowering Individuals and Businesses Alike

Vannadium’s vision is to enable data sovereignty for everyone, returning control to individuals rather than large corporations. “Imagine a world where your personal data generates income for you instead of being exploited by third parties,” Rick enthuses. By making data management and Blockchain technology more user-friendly and cost-effective, Vannadium is paving the way for a new era of data autonomy. This transformative potential extends to sectors like healthcare and AI, where secure, realtime data sharing can be life-saving and ensure reliable AI applications. Vannadium also addresses regulatory and compliance challenges, removing critical obstacles to blockchain integration and setting the stage for widespread adoption.

A core belief at Vannadium is democratizing data access and control, allowing individuals to monetize their own data. “Individuals could make a six-figure income just by licensing their data,” Rick points out. This vision extends to businesses, enabling them to operate more transparently and efficiently while ensuring data integrity and compliance.

Building a Strong and Diverse Team

Vannadium’s success is not just about technology; it’s about the people behind it. Co-Founder, Walt Rampata and critical team members like Don LaVoie, Douglas Brown, and Dr. Newton Howard and bring a wealth of experience and expertise. “It is about the team. I’m not a solopreneur,” Rick emphasizes. The diverse perspectives and collaborative spirit of Vannadium’s team are crucial to its innovative approach and ongoing success.

A Bright Future Ahead

Vannadium, Inc. stands at the cutting edge of technological innovation, driven by a commitment to data sovereignty, efficiency, and environmental sustainability. With visionary leadership, groundbreaking technology, and strategic partnerships, the company is poised to impact the world significantly. As Rick aptly puts it, “Innovation is solving a problem by looking at it from a different angle and being able to execute on that.” This philosophy ensures that Vannadium will continue leading the way in the ever-evolving data and technology landscape.

BUILDING A MORE CONNECTED CREATOR FUTURE THROUGH THE POWER OF MEMBERSHIPS

USCREEN IS AN ALL-IN-ONE MEMBERSHIP PLATFORM BUILT FOR VIDEO CREATORS.

Uscreen started as a bootstrapped company in 2014 with just an idea to start streaming DVDs and quickly pivoted to helping their customers sell video-on-demand subscriptions. Early customers include Yoga with Adriene and Sarah Beth Yoga, two highly trusted yoga brands.

Since 2014, Uscreen grew the company to 130+ employees and over $20mm ARR and strengthened their positioning and customer base. Much of their success can be attributed to their strong customer base that continues to crush it by building sustainable subscription businesses.

Today, Uscreen is a membership platform for video creators on a mission to help creators and their fans prosper through meaningful connection. In 2022, Uscreen launched their first beta of our community feature and in 2023, they are strong in their position that memberships are the foundational revenue stream video creators need to build.

Furthermore, Uscreen believes that a membership includes both a strong video catalog and an engaged community. This killer combo results in memberships with strong retention and engaged members – transforming the lives of both the creators and their members.

With Uscreen, creators can easily create paid memberships that include an on-demand video library, live streaming capabilities, and their own community space, all in their own branded site and apps.

By using Uscreen, creators can build a stronger brand, create a more loyal community, and maintain a sustainable business.

Trusted by Yoga with Adrienne, Amy Landino, Brandon Washington, Filmmakers Academy, OnlyPaige, Art of Jiujitsu, Art for Kids Hub, Abundance+, and many others, Uscreen has helped creators earn $150+ million each year, reaching over 9.7 million end-users and still growing.

sales@uscreen.tv uscreen-tv Uscreen pjtaei

CGI FEDERAL

“SHADMAN

HOSSAIN: DRIVING WEB3 ADOPTION IN GOVERNMENT AND

BEYOND.”

Shadman Hossain, Manager of Emerging Technologies Practice at CGI Federal, is playing a key role in bringing Web3 technology to government. As a leader in the field of digital transformation, CGI Federal specializes in providing cutting-edge technology solutions to government and commercial clients. Hossain, with his expertise in emerging technologies, has been instrumental in the company’s efforts to implement blockchain and other Web3 technologies in various government projects.

“Web3 technology, with its focus on decentralization and security, offers a unique opportunity for the government to improve efficiency, accountability, and trust,” Hossain

said in an interview. He added that “We are committed to helping our government clients modernize their systems and processes to better serve citizens.”

Hossain’s expertise in Web3 technologies has been on full display in CGI Federal’s work on a blockchain-based supply chain management system for the Department of Defense. The system, which uses blockchain to track the movement of goods and materials, has been praised for its ability to improve transparency, security and visibility in the supply chain. This project has been a flagship example of CGI Federal’s work on blockchain and Web3 technology.

Hossain has also been involved in several other Web3 projects for government clients. The company has implemented a blockchainbased identity verification system and a secure data exchange that can be used by academia, federal agencies and commercial partners for collaboration at the speed of mission. These efforts demonstrate the potential of Web3 technology to improve not just government systems and processes but the broader technology industry.

In addition to his work on Web3 projects, Hossain also leads CGI Federal’s efforts to stay at the forefront of emerging technologies. He and his team regularly attend conferences and meet with industry experts to stay current on the latest developments in the field.

This helps to ensure that CGI Federal continues to provide cutting-edge solutions to its clients.

Hossain believes that CGI Federal’s experience in Web3 technology and its strong partnerships with government clients position the company well for continued success in the field. “We have a deep understanding of the unique needs of government clients and a proven track record of delivering innovative solutions,” he said. “We are excited to continue working with government partners to drive Web3 adoption and bring the benefits of this technology to citizens.”

“Shadman is a born innovator who sees revolutionary opportunities within systems of systems where many others cannot. He leverages this technology superpower to formulate solutions to our Federal client’s most vexing challenges and takes the revolutionary capabilities of the Web3 ecosystem and makes them fielded realities. At the forefront of leading-edge technologies, Shadman is an invaluable asset alongside CGI Federal’s other highly qualified members working together to build what’s next.” - Victor Foulk (Vice President, Emerging Technologies Practice at CGI Federal).

In addition to his work at CGI Federal, Shadman Hossain is also a dedicated advocate for increasing diversity and inclusion in the technology industry. He is the co-founder of the Minority Programmers Association, a non-profit organization that aims to give back to the community through STEM education on a global scale. The organization focuses on providing hands-on projects and opportunities

for underrepresented groups to learn about and engage with emerging technologies, such as Web3.

Through the Minority Programmers Association, Hossain is working to bridge the gap in access to STEM education and career opportunities for marginalized communities. The organization’s hands-on approach to learning helps to make technology more accessible and understandable to a wider range of individuals across the globe, and its emphasis on collaboration and community building helps to foster a sense of belonging and inclusivity in the tech industry.

Hossain’s leadership and passion for inclusion in the technology field is evident not only through his work at CGI Federal but also through his founding of the Minority Programmers Association, which is a non-profit organization that provides hands-on projects and opportunities for underrepresented groups to learn about and engage with emerging technologies such as Web3 through real world projects. This further showcases his dedication to driving innovation and improving the lives of citizens through technology, not just within his professional capacity but also through his volunteer work to make our communities and the world, a better place to live.

Email: hossaincapital@gmail.com shadmoney_

Shadman Hossain, Manager of Emerging Technologies Practice

AMPLE

to support future growth of the $2 trillion global media and entertainment market.

The legacy entertainment industry is broken and antiquated. We are solving lack of transparency, payment, legal, IP/ownership and analytics issues. Our tokenized infrastructure and offerings will also create easier distribution, financing and community/ network tools, creating incentives and circular economy opportunities that don’t exist today.

The creators and their economies of the future will look so much different. Imagine an open market where you could easily buy a piece of Star Wars IP?! It’s fun, empowering and there’s a future of possibility waiting for all of us.

Standing Out - With a collective team experience that encompasses everything from TV, Film, Music, web3 blockchain tech and IP; our approach regarding infrastructure, multi-chain, and bridging ability is what differentiates us from our competitors. We see the future as one of micro-networks that will not only need creator support, but analytic, multi-platform distribution and multi-token ecosystem support. We are building to support circular economies, where all users have the ability to capture transactional revenue from a variety of transactions.

Why this topic is exciting - The possibilities that stem from creative IP tokenization could change the entire media and entertainment industry for the better and truly empower creators to build their own economies. The web3 tools and processes we’re building add layers of ownership, transparency and engagement that currently don’t exist and simply weren’t accessible before now.

Forward progress - we are proud to say we’ve received a NEAR Foundation grant and have the support of the full ecosystem. We have 25+ launch partners that range from individual creators, NFT projects, studios, collaborators and brands. They all want to tokenize offerings for a specific body of work or launch their content distribution and brand using our platform/tools.

The future of Hollywood including the emerging Global Media and Entertainment markets could rapidly expand due to the tokenization of professional level IP. Tokenization of assets could reach $16.1 Trillion by 2030 and the total NFT market cap grew 11,664% in 2 years; clearly there’s something going on here that’s worth paying attention to. As more brands, communities, startups and creators learn how to implement web3 tech and IP ownership into their creator economy models, an empowered network of owners, contributors and collaborators could provide access to resources, creative freedom and power we’re just beginning to understand.

Kenny Johns, Founder

FROM CLUELESS TO COVERED

Businesses Choose Phalanx as their First Step in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity can be complex and difficult to navigate for cybersecurity professionals. This sentiment is multiplied for business executives trying to decipher the ecosystem to protect their data, and even more importantly, their customers’ data. Established with a vision to redefine cybersecurity for businesses lacking specialized personnel, Phalanx has quickly become a leader in the industry, offering robust, user-friendly solutions that prioritize data security without compromising efficiency. At the heart of Phalanx’s innovation is MUZE, a cutting-edge solution designed to tackle the evolving challenges of cyber threats head-on.

Founded on the principle that cybersecurity should be accessible and comprehensible for everyone, Phalanx has carved a niche for itself. The company’s mission is simple yet impactful: to reduce human risk in the handling of business files and ensure secure, traceable data access without the need for complex infrastructure or specialized knowledge. “At Phalanx, we believe in empowering businesses by offering cybersecurity that prioritizes employee workspaces,” says Ian Garrett, CEO of Phalanx. “Our product, Phalanx MUZE, is our answer to the growing need for simple cybersecurity that doesn’t compromise on efficiency or ease of use.” Phalanx was born out of the founders’ experience in the US Army Cyber Corps and the contracting in the Department of Defense where they witnessed the effect of human accidents on data spillage.

Phalanx MUZE stands out by directly addressing the nagging feeling many business executives get when confronted by cybersecurity concerns in their business operations. It reduces human risk factors by simplifying secure file handling and ensuring that data on remote workstations and in the cloud is protected against both external and internal threats.

Phalanx’s commitment to innovation has not gone unnoticed. The company has been nominated for numerous awards in cybersecurity excellence and innovation such as presenting on stage during the TechCrunch Disrupt Startup Battlefield as a Finalist and having been HackerNoon’s Startup of the Year in 2021 and 2023 in the DC area. “Our goal was never just to create another cybersecurity tool,” explains Ian. “It was about building a foundational solution that could grow with businesses, make human lives easier, and ultimately change the way we think about data security.” Phalanx’s mission has been validated through funding and support by many prestigious organizations such as Techstars and the Arlington Innovation Fund Catalyst Grant.

Beyond Phalanx MUZE, Phalanx is committed to fostering a safer cyber environment for all. The company actively participates in cybersecurity education initiatives and engages partners to enhance digital security awareness. “Businesses should know there are many free ways to increase their security today,” says Ian. “We never want budget to be the reason why a business can’t have cyber-secure practices.”

Recognition from the industry and media alike has solidified Phalanx’s position as a pioneer in cybersecurity. Coverage in major technology and business publications such as TechCrunch has praised the company for its innovative approach and commitment to user-centric solutions.

Testimonials from clients echo this sentiment, with many highlighting MUZE’s ease of use and the peace of mind it brings. “Phalanx has provided that additional level of security for protecting my clients’ data and my company’s files. Phalanx MUZE is simple to implement, and in my industry, it is that extra layer of protection that puts my mind at ease,” shares a Phalanx customer, an owner of a CPA firm.

Looking to the future, Phalanx envisions a world where cybersecurity is inherent to every business process and is planned at every step of growth, ensuring that innovation and security go hand in hand. With plans to expand Phalanx MUZE’s capabilities and explore new technologies, especially in the realm of quantum encryption and artificial intelligence, Phalanx is not just adapting to the future of cybersecurity; it’s actively shaping it.

“Our vision for Phalanx is clear,” concludes Ian. “We aim to empower businesses of all sizes to protect their most valuable assets with solutions that are not just secure, but also enhance their operational efficiency. With Phalanx MUZE, we’re just getting started.”

(L-R): Ian Garrett, CEO and Austin Garrett, CTO

ATHENA

The Perfect Blend: AI Meets Human Expertise

“Athena envisions the future of digital solutions as a perfect blend of technology and human insight, working together to deliver superior results.”

Every day, countless individuals and businesses face challenges that hinder their progress, wasting valuable time and resources. Athena’s mission is to empower everyone with instant access to the expertise they need and deserve, regardless of time, location, or subject. By providing swift and effective responses, Athena helps you reclaim your time and achieve your goals more efficiently.

What sets Athena apart from other organizations is its seamless integration of AI with a marketplace of expert human help. While others rely solely on AI or human expertise, Athena blends the two, ensuring users receive the best of both worlds. AI provides users with speed and accessibility, but it often lacks the reliability and critical thinking required to address a user’s needs.

By combining AI with a network of experts, Athena provides its users with the speed and accessibility of AI while also maintaining the reliability and thoughtfulness of human experts. This hybrid model enhances problem-solving efficiency and provides a personalized touch that pure AI solutions lack. It also creates a valuable feedback loop, continuously improving the AI. Athena envisions the future of digital solutions as a perfect blend of technology and human insight, working together to deliver superior results.

From Frustration to Innovation

Athena was founded by three professionals from diverse backgrounds united by a common mission. At different stages of their lives, they sought various types of expertise, only to find that existing solutions often required them to spend excessive time and effort finding the proper help. They shared a vision to create a platform that transcends industry boundaries, providing seamless access to expertise in any field. Today, the company is led by co-founder Sophia Lee Suarez.

For example, imagine a startup founder aiming to perfect their pitch. They have used Athena’s AI to receive step-by-step guidance on what to include, but they’re uncertain if the information added to the presentation is truly relevant and compelling.

To get real-time feedback, they log onto Athena and connect with a pitch expert through a screensharing session. The expert provides personalized advice and helps them practice, making the pitch polished and persuasive. Athena’s ongoing vision is to refine and expand its platform, leveraging advancements in AI and increasing its pool of expert human helpers. People shouldn’t have to navigate multiple platforms or spend hours searching for reliable expertise. The ultimate goal is for Athena to become the go-to solution for instant, reliable, and expert support, seamlessly integrating into users’ workflows and providing unparalleled convenience and efficiency.

Shaping the Future of Expertise

The company’s journey began with a partnership with Oklahoma State University’s computer science department, creating a marketplace

for programming specialists. This collaboration provided valuable insights and feedback that helped shape Athena’s offerings. Today, Athena has a robust focus on graphic design, particularly in Photoshop and video editing, ensuring users can access top-notch expertise in these critical areas.

Looking forward, Athena plans to expand into various areas where people regularly seek expertise. This includes applications in business, creativity, finance, wellness, and more. This expansion will provide users with holistic support in every aspect of their lives, ensuring they have the resources they need to succeed at their fingertips. Unlike platforms like Fiverr or Upwork, Athena doesn’t just hand off the project. It’s not a course or workshop but a dynamic blend of expertise and mentorship designed for people who need practical knowhow to move their lives forward.

Athena’s ongoing vision is to refine and expand its platform, leveraging advancements in AI and increasing its pool of expert human helpers. The goal is to make access to expertise even more seamless and efficient, ultimately helping users reclaim more of their valuable time and achieve greater success in their endeavors.

Wyatt Haines CEO, 5+ Years of Product Management

Chris Nalley CTO, Successful Entrepreneur with a Previous Exit

Sophia Suarez CMO, Former Marketing Lead, Ex-Wall Street

Innovation Out of This World

A new era is unfolding in the vast expanse of space. “Space is becoming an incredibly crowded place,” says Eric Ingram, Chairman and Chief Strategy Officer of Scout Space, a pioneering company based in Washington, D.C. With this opening, we step into the world of Scout Space, a company committed to enhancing the safety and sustainability of space through innovative technology.

The Vision of Scout Space

From his early fascination with space to realizing the dire need for improved space infrastructure, Eric’s journey from research in an atomic physics lab doing LiDAR development, to antenna design for spacecraft, to working as an engineer in an asteroid mining company, to being on the regulatory side at the FAA Office of Commercial Space Transportation, is a testament to his vision. “We want to contribute to the space ecosystem so that all the cool stuff we read and watch in sci-fi can actually happen,” he shares, reflecting on his path to founding Scout Space. His ambition is clear: to minimize the risks in space. This vision is at the heart of Scout’s mission.

Scout Space develops advanced vision capabilities for spacecraft, enabling them to detect other objects in space. This technology plays a crucial role in safeguarding assets worth billions of dollars, ensuring the sustainability of space as an ecosystem. Such innovations are essential for maintaining space as a viable environment for future operations, supporting humanity’s ongoing journey toward becoming a space-faring civilization.

The way that came about was as the means to develop capabilities centered on enhancing data awareness and understanding of space activities. By equipping customer spacecraft

with payloads that offer visual capabilities, Scout Space adds transparency and insight into the orbital ecosystem. Eric articulates: “The less risky it is, the more things you can do safely, the more people will do it, the more financers will put money into it, and the more it can evolve and grow. If my role is only in lowering these risks that enable others to innovate and expand space endeavors, then I’d be ecstatic.”

Eyes and Brain in Space

Scout stands out with its cutting-edge technologies. “We’ve developed proprietary computer vision systems, machine learning, guidance, navigation, and control software that is installed onboard our customer spacecraft via payloads,” Eric explains, “acting as the eyes and brain for spacecraft to navigate autonomously, or serve space traffic monitoring and observation roles.”

These innovations enable unparalleled monitoring and data analysis, revolutionizing how we interact with and understand space. This technology enhances customer spacecraft performance, enabling more efficient mission execution with additional capabilities to provide them with another source of income. Eric and his team’s enthusiasm is palpable in their role in solving complex space-related challenges.

Navigating New Frontiers

Eric delves into the company’s unique business model, focusing on integrating their technology into clients’ missions. He elucidates: “Our business model involves retaining ownership of the data collected by these payloads. We then

process and leverage this data to create and sell information products and solutions to other clients. This unique and somewhat complex approach is proving to be highly effective, gaining significant traction in the industry.”

This model is not just about business; it’s about creating a symbiotic relationship between technology and exploration.

Impact on the Space Industry

The impact of Scout on the space industry is significant. Eric speaks passionately about the future of space exploration. “It’s not just about launching more; it’s about being responsible and regulated,” he asserts. Scout is at the vanguard of promoting safer and more sustainable practices in space, setting new standards for the industry.

However, the journey is not without its challenges. Eric discusses the complexities of regulations and the need for industry-wide cooperation.

“Space traffic management is a political and practical challenge,” he admits. Yet, these challenges are coupled with immense opportunities. Ingram is optimistic about the potential developments in space technology and exploration, painting a picture of a future rich with possibilities.

A Visionary Leader and a Pioneering Company

“Five to ten years ago, what we’re doing today would not have been technologically or financially feasible. Can you imagine how that will be a decade from now? We’re just at the beginning,” he declares, his words resonating with the spirit of a true pioneer. Under Eric’s visionary leadership, Scout stands as a beacon of innovation and exploration in space technology. Scout is not just a company; it’s a harbinger of a new age in space, an era where dreams and reality converge in the boundless skies above.

“We want to contribute to the space ecosystem so that all the cool stuff we read and watch in sci-fi can actually happen.”

SCOUT Space was founded in 2019 with the mission to enable a new era of space safety and transparency. SCOUT’s in-space products and services, first launched in June 2021, allow spacecraft to see and understand things around them. The orbital distributed sensor network developed by SCOUT will significantly improve Space Domain Awareness (SDA) and ensure responsible use of the space environment. The company is a Techstars, MassChallenge, and venture-backed startup with ongoing government and commercial contracts. SCOUT holds the Established® 2021 Startup of the Year® title.

COM-SEC

EMPOWERING BUSINESSES WITH COMPREHENSIVE CYBERSECURITY SOLUTIONS

Founded in 2020, Com-Sec has emerged as a leading provider of comprehensive cybersecurity solutions, empowering businesses to safeguard their digital assets and achieve regulatory compliance. With a team of highly skilled cybersecurity experts boasting decades of industry experience, Com-Sec has become a trusted partner for organizations across various sectors.

A Commitment to Excellence

From its inception, Com-Sec set out to redefine cybersecurity by delivering innovative and tailored solutions that address the evolving threat landscape. With a strong emphasis on excellence, the company has cultivated a reputation for providing industry-leading services backed by deep expertise and a customer-centric approach.

End-to-End Cybersecurity Offerings

Com-Sec offers a wide range of end-to-end cybersecurity services designed to meet the unique needs of each client. These services include:

1. Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (vCISO) Services

The dedicated vCISO team at Com-Sec acts as a strategic partner, working closely with organizations to develop and implement robust cybersecurity strategies aligned with their business objectives. By providing guidance on risk management, compliance, incident response planning, and security architecture, Com-Sec empowers businesses to navigate the complex cybersecurity landscape.

Success Stories

Com-Sec has a proven track record of helping organizations achieve their security and compliance goals. Some notable success stories include:

Cary Rx: Achieving SOC2 Compliance

“Com-Sec played a pivotal role in our journey towards SOC2 compliance,” says Areo Nazari, CEO of Cary Rx. With their expertise and guidance, we successfully navigated the complex requirements and established a robust security posture.”

Farlinium: Strengthening Security Posture

2. Compliance and Regulatory Support

Recognizing the importance of regulatory compliance, Com-Sec helps organizations achieve and maintain compliance with industry standards such as SOC2, HIPAA, GDPR, and more. With indepth knowledge of these frameworks, Com-Sec conducts thorough assessments, identifies gaps, and assists in implementing the necessary controls and processes to meet regulatory requirements.

3. Vulnerability Management and Penetration Testing

To proactively identify and address vulnerabilities, Com-Sec offers vulnerability management and penetration testing services. By utilizing stateof-the-art tools and methodologies, their experts

“Com-Sec provided us with comprehensive vCISO services, elevating our security posture to new heights,” says Farzad, CEO of Farlinium. “Their tailored approach and deep industry knowledge were instrumental in ensuring the protection of our critical assets.”

conduct comprehensive assessments of systems, networks, and applications. This enables businesses to remediate vulnerabilities and fortify their defenses against potential cyber threats.

4. Incident Response and Recovery

In the event of a cybersecurity incident, Com-Sec provides rapid incident response and recovery services. Their team of experienced professionals swiftly investigates the incident, contains the breach, and assists in restoring normal operations. Through meticulous planning and real-time incident management, Com-Sec

minimizes the impact of security incidents and helps businesses get back on track.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Com-Sec remains committed to staying at the forefront of cybersecurity innovation. They continuously invest in research and development, keeping pace with emerging threats and evolving regulatory landscapes. By leveraging their expertise and providing exceptional customer service, Com-Sec aims to be the go-to partner for organizations seeking reliable, cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions.

Conclusion

With a steadfast commitment to excellence, a comprehensive range of services, and a track record of success, Com-Sec is transforming the cybersecurity landscape. By empowering businesses to protect their digital assets, achieve compliance, and respond effectively to threats, Com-Sec is driving the security and success of organizations across industries.

Farbod Fakhrai, CEO

COLDS Collective

LAYING THE FOUNDATION FOR A NEW AGE

COLDS Collective is a creator collective and digitalnative organisation helping people of African descent navigate and harness Web3 and other emerging technologies. United by the mission to educate grow and innovate collectively, COLDS Collective is harnessing the power of bits (technology) to make tangible, positive changes in atoms (real life).

COLDS Collective started as an intimate effort to disseminate valuable insights and connect with curious minds, leveraging a collection of resources and networks to help one another flourish in the realm of technology. A choice to whisper to the tribe versus shouting to the multitude The community has naturally evolved into a highly engaged group of individuals sharing with and investing in each other; connecting each other to jobs and opportunities, supporting ideas and projects, and sharing useful insights for education, wealth creation and growth. Since its official launch in December 2021, COLDS Collective has grown into a digitalnative organisation leading powerful initiatives to support African creators and everyday people as they navigate the landscape of emerging technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrency.

COLDS operates through three main pillars: Education Incubation and Experience The organisation’s key initiatives are centered on novel applications of emerging frameworks and technologies – Web3, Blockchain, Cryptocurrency – and how they could impact our lives, our

communities, and society at large. COLDS Collective is working to demystify these concepts by bridging education and accessibility gaps through its offerings, to eventually achieve our ultimate goal of making knowledge and resources pertaining to Web3 and other emerging technologies more accessible to and effective for Africans.

The launch of COLDS Collective was inaugurated at Catalyst Lagos 2022, a multifaceted event that brought together builders at the forefront of technology and culture in Nigeria. COLDS Collective has since led international mutual aid initiatives like #Web3forAfricansInUkraine, a coalition of African Web3 organisations that mobilised to raise relief funds for Africans and other Black foreigners stranded in the Ukraine crisis via crypto-native tools that provide tamper-proof, permanent action accountability and security. Within 24 hours, the coalition raised 20ETH (approx $50k) to provide critical aid through verified organisations directly interfacing with people on the ground. The launch of the COLDS Cohorts program was a step towards democratising the incubation of community projects. The Cohort program provides end-to-end support to creators within the COLDS network from idea to product, including funding, creative direction, technical support and marketing strategy.

As COLDS plots the course to becoming a full-fledged Service DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization), the organization has already begun seeding community partnerships to address a key industry challenge and is spearheading a new approach to engaging the African population as more than just users and consumers, but instead as valued contributors shaping the future of technology and culture. The COLDS Collective DAO will aggregate, activate, and coordinate the largest Black and African talent network on-chain.

The value propositions of blockchain technology and Web3 are: decentralization, new incentive systems, open governance structures, unfettered access to global capital markets without intermediaries, transparency, provenance, user ownership and selfsovereignty. Knowing this, it is clear that people who exist and operate on the margins of Western capitalist systems are the ones that can truly maximize the benefits of this movement. Having missed out on early development cycles in industries that shaped this current internet age, a new iteration of the web provides the radical opportunity to restructure and rebuild without permission from incumbents and plot a new course for the future where we can begin to right historical wrongs.

Nneoma Kanu

ENLIGHTENED, INC. Leading Innovation Through Technology and Thought Leadership

Enlightened, Inc. is not just another technology firm in Washington, D.C. It is a haven of innovation and thought leadership, dedicated to solving the most pressing challenges of its clients. With a mission to provide intelligent solutions that make a measurable impact, Enlightened stands out as an award-winning HUBZone-certified Information Technology (IT) and Management Consulting firm. At the helm is Antwanye Ford, President and CEO, whose vision and leadership have propelled Enlightened to the forefront of the industry.

A Legacy of Innovation

Enlightened was founded with a singular purpose: to leverage technology and thought leadership to address the complex problems faced by businesses and governments alike. The seeds of this vision were sown at George Washington University, where the three founders first discussed the idea of starting a company that would leave a lasting impact. In 2000, a decade after that conversation, Enlightened was born. Each partner brought unique skills and abilities to create a company that excels in large-scale system integration, cybersecurity, and cloud services.

“Our purpose is to solve our customer’s biggest challenges and opportunities by leveraging technology and thought leadership to ensure that there is always a return on their investment,” says Antwanye. This commitment to client success is embedded in every facet of the company’s operations.

Core Values: The E4-I Framework

Enlightened’s success is built on a foundation of four core values known as e4-i: Integrity, Intelligence, Intensity, and Innovation. These principles guide the company’s business approach and relentless pursuit of excellence. “Innovation means that the tortoise can really beat the hare,” Antwanye explains, emphasizing that innovation is only limited by one’s ability to imagine, plan, and implement.

“Success to us is efficiently discerning and responding to our clients’ unique challenges, then designing high-impact information technology solutions to empower business success.”

The company fosters a culture of innovation through lab environments, creating white papers, and rewarding staff for innovative contributions to internal and external projects. Enlightened’s approach ensures that innovation is not just a project but a core part of the company culture.

Cybersecurity and Beyond

Enlightened’s expertise extends across various domains, with a strong focus on cybersecurity, software development, and management consulting.

The firm provides end-to-end IT solutions, helping clients navigate the ever-evolving digital landscape. Its comprehensive cybersecurity services are designed to protect organizational resources and assets, ensuring data integrity, confidentiality, and availability.

“Success to us is efficiently discerning and responding to our clients’ unique challenges, then designing high-impact information technology solutions to empower business success,” says Antwanye. Enlightened’s capabilities include vulnerability assessments, security testing, enterprise risk management, and cybersecurity training, among others.

Driving Innovation with Software Development

In the realm of software development, Enlightened is dedicated to creating custom solutions that address the complex business requirements of its clients. Whether building proprietary applications, customizing commercial software, or integrating systems and data, Enlightened’s team delivers solutions that make technology work for the client.

“Our team will help you implement the most viable solution for your organization with personalized support to ensure a smooth transition,” Antwanye adds. This commitment to client satisfaction is what sets Enlightened apart from its competitors.

Strategic Management Consulting

Enlightened’s management consulting services provide strategic guidance to organizations adopting and implementing new technologies and business processes. The firm’s experts are passionate about helping clients operate at peak performance, offering services such as business process reengineering, IT strategic planning, and quality assurance.

Antwanye highlights the importance of being a trusted advisor: “We partner with our clients to solve their toughest problems and protect their most valuable assets.” This partnership approach has helped Enlightened build long-lasting relationships with its clients, based on trust and mutual success.

A Vision for the Future

As Enlightened looks to the future, it remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. The company is exploring acquisition opportunities to enhance its innovative culture and is partnering with universities to advance cybersecurity and artificial intelligence research.

Antwanye is excited about the company’s growth prospects: “We are targeting acquisition opportunities in the future specific for those businesses who have an innovative culture that can be additive to our own.” This forward-thinking approach ensures that Enlightened stays ahead of the curve, continually developing solutions that anticipate the needs of its clients.

Commitment to Community and Workforce Development

Enlightened’s impact extends beyond its business operations, strongly focusing on community engagement and workforce development. For over 15 years, the company has hosted interns and apprentices, providing them with hands-on experience and opportunities to contribute to real projects. This commitment to nurturing the next generation of technology leaders is a testament to Enlightened’s dedication to giving back to the community.

A Clarion Call for Innovation

Enlightened, Inc. is a testament to innovation’s power and visionary leadership’s impact. Under the guidance of Antwanye Ford, the company has achieved success and set a standard for excellence in the industry. “Do what needs to be done, but what other people are not willing to do,” Antwanye’s mentor once advised him. This mantra has become a clarion call for Enlightened, driving the company to push boundaries and redefine what is possible in the world of technology and consulting.

In the ever-evolving landscape of information technology, Enlightened continues to shine as a leader, committed to solving the toughest challenges and empowering clients to achieve their goals. With a legacy of innovation and a vision for the future, Enlightened is poised to make an indelible mark on the industry and the world.

OPENGRID TECHNOLOGIES

Charging Ahead in Urban EV Revolution

Charging an EV (electric vehicle) outside your city home can be problematic for most urban EV drivers. Simply put, public charging operators aren’t incentivized to build urban fast-charging networks due to the uncertainty in demand, lack of access to prime locations, and power availability issues. What’s more, private charging isn’t feasible, either. Less than 10% of multi-family buildings have electrical access for EV charging. As a result, 40 million urban dwellers are left behind by the scarcity of public charging infrastructures in this electrified era.

OpenGrid Technologies is a dynamic force transforming the urban electric vehicle (EV) charging landscape – from the heart of Washington, D.C.

Founded by Nanbo Liu, Theo Hebblethwaite and Mike Wen, visionary minds from Georgetown University, OpenGrid is more than just a company; it’s a mission-driven campaign dedicated to making EV charging in urban settings effortless and universal. Their elevator pitch, “Urban EV fast-charging made easy,” encapsulates their groundbreaking solution.

Democratizing Urban EV Charging

OpenGrid’s mission is sharply focused: to revolutionize urban EV charging. Nanbo, with his deep insights into the urban mobility sector, highlights a critical issue: “The real challenge for urban EV drivers is the scarcity of efficient charging infrastructure.” OpenGrid responds innovatively with a network of proprietary DC fast chargers, offering subscription-based electricity packages that blend seamlessly into the urban fabric.

“Our unique approach brings the Uber magic to urban EV charging,” shares Theo. “With a mix of dedicated and partnership charging stations, we sit in the middle of EV drivers and the urban environment. Thanks to the proprietary design of fast charging stations and an innovative subscription model, urban EV drivers can confidently top off their day in

“Our unique approach brings the Uber magic to urban EV charging.”

minutes at a low cost. Our dedicated locations and the no-cost partnership program with local businesses ensure us access to prime locations that serve the drivers best. Simply put, we are establishing a highly scalable urban EV charging standard of speed, cost stability, proximity, and driver experience that can’t be matched.”

From Concept to Concrete Solutions

The evolution of OpenGrid from an MBA classroom concept at Georgetown to a market innovator in urban EV charging encapsulates a journey of relentless research, global networking, and technological innovation.

their service but as a vital extension of their overarching business model and ecosystem. Embracing a philosophy akin to that of a software company, the firm aims to transform urban EV charging into an experience that is as rapid, effortless, and dependable as it rightfully should be. This approach marries the efficiency of bringing a software company ethos to the hardware service.

A Unique Charging Solution

Mike recalls: “We realized that EV charging in urban environments significantly hindered EV adoption.” This led to the birth of OpenGrid, inspired by models like Uber and Lime e-scooters, redefining urban EV charging with a unique blend of technology and innovative business models. Reflecting on OpenGrid’s inception, Nanbo says: “It was about combining technology with a new business model.”

OpenGrid’s proprietary-design charging stations serve not just as a functional aspect of

OpenGrid’s uniqueness lies not just in its charging stations but also in the way it reimagines urban infrastructure. “Our charging stations aren’t just points; they are integral to the urban landscape,” Nanbo emphasizes. These stations, equipped with EV batteries, offer enhanced output and user-friendly plug-andplay applications, highlighted by the innovative use of QR codes for easy access. “Our charging stations are highly scalable, and we believe instead of building jumbo charging stations sporadically distributed throughout the cities, fast charging stations should be on every street, every corner for us to embrace an electrified future,” Theo adds. The goal extends beyond solving current challenges; it’s about shaping the future of urban mobility with sustainability as a cornerstone, including the potential for stations to self-generate electricity using solar panels.

Embracing Challenges as Opportunities

OpenGrid’s ambition is palpable: “Our mission is to build tomorrow’s climate technology today,” shares Nanbo. This vision embodies OpenGrid’s ethos - deeply invested in the present and actively shaping the future of urban EV charging. In the face of an evolving marketplace, OpenGrid sees a landscape brimming with opportunities. Nanbo remarks: “Combining business model innovation with technology is rare.” Committed to sustainability, user-centric design, and a forward-thinking approach, OpenGrid is not just redefining urban EV charging – it’s pioneering the future of urban mobility.

OpenGrid’s vision extends to creating a cohesive ecosystem for EV users through strategic alliances with automotive companies, technology firms, and urban developers. “We are also working with local business district improvement projects and Smart City initiatives to make Washington, D.C., and adjacent areas more EV-ready and sustainable,” asserts Mike. This approach aims to provide a comprehensive urban mobility experience, not just limited to charging stations.

Working on the factory floor

Nanbo Liu and Theo Hebblethwaite

Georgetown’s Venture Hall of Fame

THEY USED TO TRACK TERRORISTS…

NOW THEY TRACK TRUCKS

Like many on September 11th 2001, Ryan Joyce stared in disbelief at the television screens as he watched the second plane hit the World Trade Center in New York City. But it was the next image on the screen that made his heart sink further: the gaping hole and ensuing inferno at the Pentagon – the exact location where his father had gone to work that morning.

“The plane impacted just underneath his office. He was blown back against a wall and instantly the office was engulfed in flames. By God’s grace, he narrowly made it out before the floor collapsed and made it home that night,” said Joyce

Joyce went to bed that night in a strange new America, but with a crystalclear vision for his future: he was determined to do everything he could to stop another similar attack on America. A few years later, having learned Arabic and spent time living in the Middle East, Joyce was recruited into the US government where he met Blake Balch – a good-natured east Texan with an endearing southern drawl. “We were fast friends,” said Balch, “with a united vision of combatting terrorism together.”

Over the next decade, the two would deploy to the far-reaches of the globe helping gather intelligence while using disparate datasets and distributed sensor networks to pinpoint the locations of terrorists and disrupt their activities. The two saw firsthand the power of using an ‘all-source intelligence’ approach to preventing another 9/11 from happening.

“I remember for a whole month the US intelligence community was going crazy over a report that Al-Qa’ida had plans to conduct a sarin gas attack,” said Joyce. “Little did I know that our future co-founder was busy at work calculating the impact of such an attack.”

A few years younger, but definitely twice as smart, Joe Sherman was a chemist who was leveraging the latest advances in data science to model out different attack scenarios. This work sucked him into the world of Machine Learning and soon he was one of the US government’s best resources for applied Artificial Intelligence, with a focus on computer vision.

Finally, fate struck in 2020 when Joyce, Balch, and Sherman all met working at an early-stage startup in the Washington DC area. Together, they developed and patented a new technology to passively track people across cameras without the use of face or gait recognition. “The impetus for the technology was the terrorist attack on the Boston Marathon,” explained Joyce. The Tsarnaev brothers were captured on hundreds of cameras, but investigators had to manually review each camera’s footage – and their hats and glasses made facial recognition software ineffective. “We built technology that allowed one analyst to do in seconds what used to take a hundred analysts a few weeks or months,” Sherman noted.

The technology went through various twists and turns before finally finding a home among retail analysts. “We are proud that some of the largest malls in the world are now using the tech,” shared Balch, “but the three of us had to be honest that we hadn’t set foot in a mall in years.” And so, the three began looking for another challenge – which was no small feat given COVID had started to siege the world. But this also laid bare an opportunity.

“Supply chain. Supply chain. Supply chain” said Joyce with a chuckle. “It was all over the news – and I felt like there were some massive problems

there we could solve.” At first the team looked at maritime shipping, but saw that this was a crowded space thanks to the availability of AIS data that allowed anyone to track a ship’s location. Then they ruled out planes for the same reason. “Anyone can check a flight’s location online thanks to the ADS-B tracking network,” shared Balch.

But there was one form of transportation that didn’t have ubiquitous tracking yet: trucks.

“We started talking to major players in this space – freight brokers, truck carriers, shippers – and everyone complained that there was a lack of good data,” said Joyce. One customer told them that the first company to successfully collect ubiquitous data on all trucks on the roads would become a $100 billion company overnight. “Talk about a carrot! We got to work immediately.”

A month later and the team had built a sensor capable of pulling critical data from trucks as they flew by at highway speeds. “We went back and showed the same customer what we could do…and they gave us a $7.5 million acquisition offer the very next day,” said Joyce with a grin. “We knew we had struck gold.”

Since then, the team raised a few rounds of venture capital and have built the largest nationwide network of sensors to collect on US truck traffic – and customers have been lining up to get access to their Freight Intelligence platform. But for the GenLogs team, the motivations aren’t strictly financial: “We have already seen how this data can help stop fraud, theft, and tackle other sticky issues like human trafficking and fentanyl smuggling,” remarked Sherman. “It’s incredible to see our data be used to make America safer and stronger!”

Joyce grins and says, “We used to track terrorists…and now we track trucks.”

Ryan Joyce, Co-founder, CEO Joe Sherman, Co-founder, CTO Blake Balch, Co-founder, Partnerships

CHAPTER THREE

PREVIEWIMAGE INNOVATION IN ACADEMIA

KOGOD SCHOOL OF BUSINESS

The Kogod School of Business at American University stands as a beacon of innovation shaping the next generation of business leaders. With a commitment to sustainability, unparalleled faculty expertise, and a robust experiential learning framework, Kogod ensures that its students graduate well-equipped to take on a career in business that meets today’s industry needs and anticipates the ever-changing scope of tomorrow.

Innovators in Sustainability Education

At the Kogod School of Business, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it’s a philosophy woven into the fabric of every program. Having just celebrated the tenth anniversary of the MS in Sustainability Management program in 2023, Kogod was a trailblazer in sustainability education and remains one of the only business schools in the country to house such a specialized program in the field. The school’s commitment to creating a more sustainable world through business extends beyond a single program, though. Kogod believes that sustainable thinking should permeate every classroom, student activity, and school event as students prepare to enter the business world and grapple with business’ impact at every level.

By leveraging data and innovative technologies – along with the passion of its students, faculty practitioners, and the wider community –Kogod encourages the application of sustainable practices across all business disciplines. The goal is to equip students with the skills to implement innovative solutions, ensuring their organizations thrive while considering the broader impact on people, planet, and prosperity.

Unparalleled Faculty Expertise

Kogod’s faculty are not just educators; they are real practitioners deeply embedded in their respective fields. This level of access to some of the nation’s top researchers and most experienced business leaders provides students with current insights and real-world problem-solving skills. Students can engage in pro-bono and co-op consulting projects with

local businesses, gaining hands-on experience in developing innovative solutions to real business problems. Field trips to congressional hearings offer a unique perspective on how policy decisions impact businesses of different sizes, while the startup incubator program at the Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship – led by two Kogod faculty members – supports student entrepreneurs in their quests to create meaningful change through business.

The faculty at Kogod are changemakers themselves, dedicated to supporting students and alums on their journeys to create impact. This commitment to mentorship and realworld exposure is a cornerstone of the Kogod experience.

Experiential Learning Opportunities

Kogod understands the value of learning by doing. The school offers an array of experiential learning opportunities that go beyond traditional classroom settings. Students participating in the Kogod Student Managed Investment Fund and the Real Estate Investment Trust invest real money into the stock market, gaining practical insights into financial markets. The Student-Advised Impact Investment Fund course focuses on sustainable investing, giving students the chance to collaborate with faculty in researching and recommending sustainable investments to American University’s board of trustees –ultimately providing students the unparalleled opportunity to invest roughly $9M of the university’s endowment fund.

For those seeking a global perspective, domestic and international immersion experiences offer class credit through site visits and cultural engagement. With its strategic location in Washington, DC, Kogod provides unparalleled internship, mentorship, and career opportunities at the crossroads of the public and private sectors, ensuring students are well-prepared to navigate the complexities of the business world regardless of what industry they pursue.

With its mission to build a more sustainable world through business, the Kogod School of Business at American University stands as a vanguard of innovation – fostering a

problem-solving mentality, providing access to faculty expertise, and offering a vast array of experiential learning opportunities. As the landscape of the business world continues to grow and change, Kogod remains steadfast in its commitment to shaping agile and forwardthinking changemakers who are poised to lead in creating lasting and innovative impacts around the world.

American University’s Kogod School of Business breeds the spirit of changemakers at the Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship. It’s more than just an academic unit; it’s a thriving ecosystem where entrepreneurial dreams are developed, challenged, and nurtured. Entrepreneurship is a worldview. Entrepreneurs are risk-taking, resilient, innovative problem-solvers and dreamers with the fortitude to execute their vision of bringing to market products and services not previously created yet ultimately desired by customers, even when doing so challenges social and economic norms.

Pushing Boundaries, Embracing Risk-Taking

The Veloric Center serves as a cross-campus catalyst, offering programs encouraging curiosity, risk-taking, innovation, critical thinking, problemsolving, creativity, and resilience. The Center empowers students through a spectrum of experiential learning opportunities, including entrepreneurship classes, competitions, workshops, panels, events, and the AU Business Incubator.

“This isn’t about being an entrepreneur or not; it is a way of thinking and processing information,” explains Professor Tommy White, Director of the Veloric Center. “We dial into the concepts of getting students out of their comfort zones, taking risks, thinking more critically, and identifying and solving real business problems. By demonstrating curiosity and asking questions, students can position themselves with confidence to follow through on those creative ideas.”

Nurturing Changemakers

Through the AU Business Incubator, students and recent alumni access support, mentorship, and resources to transform their ideas into viable business ventures. Professor White shares: “The best way to learn about business is to start one. We support students and recent alums who want to launch companies. In our incubator program, education is first, and commercialization is second. We’re about the experience and learning that comes with that; it’s invaluable.”

While not all businesses launched in the program survive, the Veloric Center values learning through experience and accepting failure as a vital step toward success.

Professorial Lecturer Danielle Vogel, Assistant Director at the Veloric Center, notes: “We serve as a resource for students, coaching, mentoring, connecting, inspiring, and even providing funding to help them advance their ideas.”

Neither the Business Incubator nor AU takes an ownership stake in the ventures it fosters. That’s a unique aspect of the Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship at American University.

Inspiring Innovation And Creativity

The Veloric Center enhances its impact through annual campus-wide competitions. “Students are competitive; they want to win; they want to be successful,” says Professor White. These events include pitch challenges, prototyping competitions, and investment practicums. They serve as platforms for students to demonstrate their entrepreneurial skills, encouraging effective communication and confidence building. For example, the annual Changemaker Challenge allows first-year students to develop public speaking skills while focusing on solving social impact problems. Through the annual Sustainability Invent-o-Thon competition, students work in teams to create physical prototypes for board games to teach sustainability concepts to children. Additionally, the Venture Capital Investment Competition and the summer Startup & Standout Pitch Challenge provide practical experience in business evaluation, networking, problem-solving, and pitching ideas.

“The experience students get from these competitions is engagement, confidence building, team building, and networking,” says Professor White. “It’s amazing to see students when they participate and engage. They always start a little bit apprehensive, but they come out of the experience and go, ‘Wow, that was amazing! I met all these new people, I learned how to communicate, and built self-confidence I didn’t know I even had in me.’”

Professor Vogel adds: “This whole idea of the entrepreneurial mindset and promoting critical thinking, risk-taking, and problem-solving – both within the startup context and beyond – is a major part of what we do through all of our cross-campus activations.”

Real-World Impact

Despite an education-first approach, the Veloric Center has launched a number of commercially successful ventures. To date, the program has propelled over 150 ventures with 250 founders, emphasizing a solid commitment to diversity, with over 65% of founders being women and/ or minorities. Engaging over 750 students, these student ventures have secured $250,000 in awards, $5.9 million from investors, and generated $10.2 million in revenue. Ventures that have successfully graduated from the incubator program have earned a remarkable $40 million in lifetime revenues, showcasing the program’s success in fostering impactful and sustainable businesses.

A Legacy of Change And Innovation

The support from Gary Veloric, an American University alumnus and successful entrepreneur, has been instrumental in paving the way for generations of changemakers. His family’s generous donation signifies the recognition of the Center’s vital role in nurturing future leaders and entrepreneurs.

The Veloric Center for Entrepreneurship is a beacon of inspiration at American University. It’s a place where risk-taking is encouraged, creativity is cultivated, and entrepreneurial thinking is refined. Through its comprehensive programs and visionary leadership, the Center is not just educating students; it’s preparing the world’s next generation of leaders and innovators. It carries forward the legacy of innovation and entrepreneurship that defines American University’s Kogod School of Business.

GEORGETOWN ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Create the Future

In order to help solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges –nationally and globally – Georgetown Entrepreneurship is dedicated to championing common good entrepreneurship across its programming, teachings, and networks.

Serving all of Georgetown University from the McDonough School of Business, Georgetown Entrepreneurship uses the power of innovation to create meaningful change, make a positive impact, and support the next generation of impact-driven entrepreneurs.

At its core, Georgetown Entrepreneurship strives to instill an entrepreneurial mindset that serves the common good – not only in every student – but the greater Washington, D.C., entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Georgetown Entrepreneurship is dedicated to:

• Student Formation: Instilling an entrepreneurial mindset in every student through curricular, co-curricular, and experiential learning opportunities.

• Thought Leadership: Elevating academic research and expertise focused on purpose-driven innovation and entrepreneurship.

• Venture Development, Engagement, and Social Impact: Serving the broader Georgetown community, the greater Washington D.C., ecosystem, and the world beyond by supporting venture development.

Building the Next Generation of Purpose-Driven Innovators

Georgetown instills an entrepreneurial mindset in students through curricular, co-curricular, and experiential learning opportunities. Annual events on campus expose students to real-world exposure to real-world pitch competitions, as well as the chance to receive feedback from highly esteemed entrepreneurs.

Venture in the Capital Venture in the Capital is Georgetown Entrepreneurship’s first student-led conference exploring the intersection of venture capital, entrepreneurship, and public policy. For the past two years, distinguished Georgetown alumni and industry experts have shared invaluable insights and experiences with the Georgetown community through panel discussions and fireside chats.

The event name, Venture in the Capital, emphasizes Georgetown’s geographical advantage in the nation’s capital. The student organizers developed the event to highlight what sets Georgetown apart from other universities, including its proximity to D.C. and the venture capital clubs and organizations available to students.

Bark Tank

The Leonsis Family Entrepreneurship Prize Pitch Competition, coined “Bark Tank,” is Georgetown University’s premier pitch event. Eight eligible startups led by undergraduate and graduate students compete for a share of the $100,000 prize to help them scale their companies. Made possible by the generosity of Ted Leonsis (C’77, P’14, ’15), founder, chairman, principal partner, and chief executive officer of Monumental Sports & Entertainment, and his family, Bark Tank showcases how students use innovation to make a positive impact on society. Since Bark Tank’s inception, $975,000 in prizes have been awarded to 60 different ventures, and those ventures have gone on to raise more than $295 million and create over 1,000 jobs.

Entrepreneurs in Residence

Entrepreneurs in Residence (EiRs) provide expertise, advice, mentoring, coaching, and other assistance to students and alumni in the Washington, D.C., region and beyond. As ambassadors for Georgetown University and Georgetown Entrepreneurship, EIRs use their professional networks to help expand the entrepreneurial connections available to the Georgetown community and provide guidance on key initiatives. EiRs and other experts offer more than 3,200 hours of mentoring every year.

Entrepreneurship Minor

After receiving student feedback indicating that nearly 60% of students are interested in pursuing studies in entrepreneurship, Georgetown McDonough created the Entrepreneurship Minor for undergraduate business students.

The minor consists of courses covering skills such as critical reasoning and decisionmaking in complex markets and industries, opportunity identification based on market and industry analysis, the role of entrepreneurial changemakers in society, and design concepts for products and services.

is home to a variety of Georgetown-affiliated startups, including: Adlumin, Aquicore, Axios, Blackboard, CapitalSource, Cvent, Forbright Bank, GetWellNetwork, Graham Holdings, Joylet, Enlightenment Capital, MasPanadas, Modus Create, Monumental Sports and Entertainment, Nextel, Oxiwear, Proxy Foods, Revolution Ventures, Social Tables, ThinkNimble, and 1863 Ventures.

“Bark Tank” is Georgetown University’s premier pitching event where student entrepreneurs compete for a share of the $100,000 prize.

“Bark Tank” is made possible by Ted Leonsis (C’77, P’14, ’15), a longtime entrepreneur, investor, and founder, majority owner, chairman, and chief executive officer of Monumental Sports & Entertainment.

The inaugural Venture in the Capital emphasized Georgetown’s geographical advantage in the nation’s capital.

The Rafik B. Hariri Building is the home of the McDonough School of Business and Georgetown Entrepreneurship.

Exploring the intersection of venture capital, entrepreneurship, and public policy, Venture in the Capital is Georgetown Entrepreneurship’s first student-led conference.

Advancing Thought Leadership in Common Good Entrepreneurship

Venture Meets Mission

To help pave a path forward for mission-driven entrepreneurs, three academic leaders at Georgetown McDonough published their book, Venture Meets Mission: Aligning People, Purpose, and Profit to Innovate and Transform Society, to explore the transformative potential of entrepreneurship in tackling society’s greatest challenges.

The book is co-authored by Arun Gupta, adjunct faculty member and Georgetown Entrepreneurship Advisory Board Member; Gerry George, group managing director at International Medical University and academic advisor to Georgetown Entrepreneurship; and Thomas Fewer, former postdoctoral fellow at Georgetown McDonough.

Entrepreneurship for the Common Good Forum

The inaugural Entrepreneurship for the Common Good Forum was held in October 2023, where attendees gathered to network with and learn from visionary entrepreneurs, forward-thinking investors, and influential policymakers who are using entrepreneurship to tackle the world’s most pressing global challenges. Event attendees participated in discussions to help create positive transformation across business sectors and forge a sustainable future for all.

Leveraging Innovation to Serve Others

The Leonsis Venture Lab

The Leonsis Venture Lab is a dedicated workspace for full-time alumni entrepreneurs to launch and grow their businesses with support from the Georgetown Entrepreneurship ecosystem. The Venture Lab is located conveniently at a WeWork in downtown Washington, D.C., where alumni entrepreneurs can build their startups in a collaborative environment alongside fellow founders.

Jesuit Entrepreneurship Center Alliance

A community of educators and innovators hosted their inaugural meeting of the Jesuit Entrepreneurship Center Alliance in 2023 to discuss how universities can use entrepreneurship to positively impact society and serve the common good. The alliance was initiated by the International Association of Jesuit Business Schools and organized by Jeff Reid, founding director of Georgetown Entrepreneurship, and Wendy Bolger, founding director of the Simon Center for Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Loyola University, Maryland.

“Now more than ever, we need leaders with an entrepreneurial mindset who can use business to serve the common good,” said Reid. “This has been the mission of Georgetown Entrepreneurship for over a decade, and we are pleased to work alongside other Jesuit business school leaders to broaden our global impact in entrepreneurial programming and innovation.”

Pivot Program

The Georgetown University Pivot Program is a custom certificate in business and entrepreneurship designed specifically for individuals returning to the community after incarceration. The program’s goal is to allow fellows to access career and professional opportunities that would otherwise be out of reach while also changing the perception of people with a prior conviction.

The entrepreneurial mindset is deeply embedded within the Pivot curriculum. Each Pivot Fellow goes through the process of identifying a problem or opportunity, understanding how to create value for a user or stakeholder, and identifying a potential business model.

The program is a partnership among the McDonough School of Business, the Georgetown Prisons and Justice Initiative, and the D.C. Department of Employment Services.

Jeff Reid is the founding director of Georgetown Entrepreneurship and a professor of the practice at Georgetown McDonough.

Attendees gathered to network with and learn from visionary entrepreneurs and forward-thinking investors at the inaugural Entrepreneurship for the Common Good Forum.

Leonsis Venture Lab is located conveniently at a WeWork in downtown Washington, D.C., where alumni entrepreneurs can build their startups alongside fellow founders.

The Georgetown Pivot Program is a custom certificate in business and entrepreneurship designed specifically for individuals returning to the community after incarceration.

Georgetown Entrepreneurship is a hub for entrepreneurial events, education, support, and coaching for early-stage Hoya entrepreneurs.

Georgetown

Institute for Health Computing Primed to Partner with Life Science Companies

The University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing (IHC) is a new academic health research institute in North Bethesda, Maryland, that serves as a hub for health computing innovation and collaboration in Montgomery County.

By partnering with the IHC, the more than 300 life science startups, companies and government agencies located in Montgomery County benefit from the IHC’s resources, high-performance computing and artificial intelligence (AI) expertise, clinical expertise, vast and geographically diverse de-identified health records database, and degree programs for employee upskilling. By building innovative partnerships with industry and federal agencies, the IHC will create new computational tools and peer networks to support the Montgomery County entrepreneurial ecosystem.

world-class researchers who are exploring artificial intelligence, machine learning, and virtual and augmented reality to collaborate with medical experts, leading to broad impacts on human health and well-being.”

Located near Pike & Rose in North Bethesda, the IHC currently employs more than 50 data scientists, biostatisticians, computer scientists, database engineers, clinical content experts, epidemiologists and entrepreneurs with plans to expand to 100 researchers.

Founded in November 2022, the IHC merges the computational expertise, clinical expertise, biomedical innovation, health data, and academic resources of the University of Maryland, College Park, the University of Maryland, Baltimore, and the University of Maryland Medical System to support the Montgomery County life science community. Funding support for the IHC comes from strategic partner Montgomery County, Maryland, from the MPowering the State initiative and from the state of Maryland.

The IHC’s core purpose is economic development for Montgomery County. Through cutting-edge algorithms, high-performance computing and a presence in the county’s globally recognized life science community, the IHC will translate the latest computational health care innovations into

economic development. This includes meeting the high computation needs of the current ecosystem, attracting and co-locating new companies and ventures, creating new jobs, and providing education upskilling to support the county’s life science workforce and grow the county’s GDP within the life science sector.

“[The IHC is] on the leading edge of the growing marriage of computing – data visualization, machine learning and artificial intelligence – to biological research,” said Montgomery County Executive Marc Elrich. “This convergence of computing and lab work will only grow as it promises to speed and broaden our ability to address health outcomes that will benefit Montgomery County and beyond. This partnership with the University of Maryland system will be transformational for all involved.”

The IHC’s six research centers serve as the foundation for complementary and collaborative research with local companies, startups and agencies:

• Applied AI

• Bioinformatics

• Immersive Visualization

• Therapeutic Target Discovery

• Population and Community Health

• Real-World Evidence and Adaptive Clinical Trials

“Scaling up research to address grand challenges in the life sciences has shifted from collecting data to using cutting-edge technology to discover meaningful patterns hidden in the data,” said Darryll J. Pines, president of the University of Maryland, College Park. “This Institute will tap

In partnership with Montgomery County, the IHC also plans to launch a new AI startup incubator and other opportunities for companies and startups to co-locate with the IHC.

IHC leaders welcome the DMV startup community to connect and learn more about how the IHC can support local entrepreneurs and new ventures.

University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing 6116

Maryland Governor Wes Moore signed into law Senate Bill 376, sponsored by Senator Nancy King and cross-filed by Delegate Jared Solomon, on April 25, 2024, which provides $15 million over the next five years and then $6 million annually for the University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing.

Maryland Governor Wes Moore, Lt. Governor Aruna Miller and members of the Governor’s cabinet visit North Bethesda for a presentation about the Institute for Health Computing in February 2023.

Darryll J. Pines, president of the University of Maryland, College Park, speaks to a standing-room-only crowd at an alumni event for the Institute for Health Computing at the Woodmont Country Club in June 2023.

University of Maryland Institute for Health Computing leaders and advisors (left-right) Amitabh Varshney, Bradley Maron, Marc Elrich, Sujal Bista and Darryll J. Pines attend a University of Maryland, College Park alumni event for the Institute for Health Computing at the Woodmont Country Club in June 2023.

RAISING AN ENTREPRENEUR

MARGOT MACHOL BISNOW IS THE AUTHOR OF RAISING AN ENTREPRENEUR: HOW TO HELP YOUR CHILDREN

ACHIEVE THEIR DREAMS; 99 STORIES FROM FAMILIES WHO DID.

The first edition was published in 2016. She spent the next four years talking to parents around the country. She updated her book, expanded it, and added two photos of each of the 70 entrepreneurs in the book, one when they were young and one today. The second edition was published in May 2022; she also recorded an audio book for Audible. Since then, she has written many articles, appeared on several TV shows, done many podcasts (links are on her website). Six months ago, she also did an article for CNBC, which was their number one trending story for three days. They asked her to become a regular contributor; she now writes monthly articles for them; each has been their number one trending story for three days.

it if someone hadn’t believed in me.” For most of them, that someone was their mom. They said, “My mom believed in me. She supported my passion. She told me I could succeed at anything I put my mind to. She’s the reason I turned out this way.” Some had other family members who had made a difference: their dad, their grandparent, a step-parent. For others, it was a teacher, or a coach, or a mentor. But someone along the way had told them they could succeed at anything they worked at hard enough.

Margot began to interview a diverse group of entrepreneurs and their families to see what she could learn. The 70 entrepreneurs, half men, half women, in their late 20’s, 30’s and 40’s, had a wide variety of interests and skills; they were creators and innovators from different ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds, geographic settings, religious traditions, and family structures. Some grew up well off, some struggled financially. Some came from big families, some from small families, some from blended families. They came from big cities and small towns, from across the U.S. and from other countries. Some had parents who are still married; some had parents who were divorced; some were raised by single moms; some had parents who died. She learned that, while in some ways each person’s upbringing had been different, in a handful of key areas they all had been raised the same. She shares her findings in her book.

Almost all the successful entrepreneurs profiled in her book have one experience in common:

Margot had spent most of her career in international development, with stints at the Treasury, White House, and FTC. She had never expected to write a book on raising an entrepreneur. It began when she started meeting scores of successful young entrepreneurs through her older son, Elliott, who, in 2008, founded Summit, high level gatherings of young leaders in a wide range of fields. She began asking them the same questions: What made you so confident and so willing to put everything on the line? What made you able to take on so much risk and work so hard for an idea? Why are you not afraid to fail?

She was amazed that they all replied with a version of the same thing: “I couldn’t have done

they had someone’s (almost always their parents, especially their mom’s) support to pursue a passion, generally one they engaged in outside of school. Whether that passion was sports, computers, music, video games, or selling things, it made them great future entrepreneurs.

The stories in the book show that even if a child’s passion doesn’t turn into a profession, they learn the joy of diving deeply into a pursuit. The entrepreneurs in the book learned that good things happen when they did things they loved. They learned to work hard; they developed grit. They learned resilience – to try and try and try and try until they got it right. They learned not to give up. They learned not to be afraid to fail – that failure is how they learned and grew.

They learned to be curious: Does this have to be this way? Could it be improved? How could I make it better? Whether the entrepreneurs started a company that disrupted existing

industries, or started a non-profit that helps people around the world, or whether they became an artist whose music or art or acting or directing affected millions, or whether they became an activist whose work changed policies, it all started because they had learned to compete, they learned to work hard, they learned not to worry about failure. And because they learned to think they could do something better than it was being done.

Margot is convinced that more young people would be happy and fulfilled if they were encouraged to find their passion and pursue it enthusiastically, as the entrepreneurs in her book did, instead of going the traditional route. She encourages parents to let go of their fears to raise creative, confident, resilient, fearless kids who achieve their dreams.

GOPURSUE Empowering the Next Generation

GoPursue is a revolutionary organization transforming the landscape of career exploration for K-12 students. This vibrant social impact company has carved a unique niche in the educational technology space, addressing critical gaps in workforce development and career preparedness.

Founded by Kathryn Adabonyan, a former math teacher and career and technical education leader, GoPursue aims to democratize access to career opportunities and mentorship for the youth, particularly those who benefit from increased access.

A Vision Born from Necessity

Kathryn’s journey to founding GoPursue is both personal and poignant. “At 17, I committed myself and my family to $120,000 in college debt to pursue an undeclared major. I had no idea what careers existed beyond the traditional roles everyone talked about,” she recalls. Her experience highlights a widespread issue in our educational system: students are often propelled toward higher education without adequate career exploration, leading to significant debt and uncertainty about their future paths.

“I’m

excited for a societal shift where career connections and exploration start much earlier - potentially as early as elementary school.”

This realization prompted Kathryn to reimagine career exploration. “Why not provide students with the tools to discover their career potential before this pivotal point?” she questioned.

Innovative Approach to Career Exploration

GoPursue is distinguished by its approach to connecting students with realworld professionals and opportunities. “What if we had a Bumble dating app for career exploration?” Kathryn pondered during the pandemic, drawing parallels between social networking and career mentoring. This led to the creation of a platform where students can safely interact with mentors across various industries, gaining invaluable insights and building social capital early in their lives.

“Our company’s innovation lies not just in our technology but in our resolve that workforce development is equally crucial in high school as it is in higher education,” Kathryn explains. The platform allows students to explore over 450 career paths, engage with mentors, and find work opportunities with local employers - all facilitated through a user-friendly app that embodies flexibility and connectivity.

GoPursue is committed to assisting high school students in exploring various career options, connecting with professionals in those fields, and discovering work opportunities with local employers. Its mission is deeply rooted in empowering students to make informed career choices and ensuring equitable access to any industry. “We do the work that we do because we want students to feel empowered to choose and pursue their ideal careers and have equitable access to any industry,” explains Kathryn.

The company aims to capture the hearts and minds of Generation Z before they advance to college. “It’s widely known that career exploration and career awareness has to start earlier than college because less than 40% of the US population has a four-year degree,” she notes. This statistic highlights the importance of initiating workforce development efforts in the K-12 educational space, as failing to do so would mean overlooking a significant portion of the population.

The objectives of GoPursue extend beyond mere career exploration; they include enhancing economic mobility for students and providing more equitable access to various industries. Kathryn is ambitious about the potential impact of these initiatives: “Ultimately, we’re hoping to close labor shortages or workforce shortages for specific industries that are desperate to capture their incoming talent pipeline.”

Impact and Future Aspirations

The impact of GoPursue is quantifiable and deeply motivational. Kathryn’s vision is driven by the social impact potential of her company. “I’m excited for a societal shift where career connections and exploration start much earlier - potentially as early as elementary school,” she shares. This accessibility is crucial, particularly for students from underrepresented or marginalized communities, giving them the tools to see and believe in the possibilities their futures could hold.

Statistics from GoPursue’s internal tracking show a remarkable trend in engagement and aspiration among its users. Students involved with GoPursue are 90% likely to discover new careers on their first visit, and 100% guaranteed to get career advice from real industry professionals. Students gain confidence and clarity about the career paths through the

platform. Kathryn reflects: “Hearing a student say they now have a clear goal after graduation because they talked to someone in their dream jobthat’s what drives us.”

The positive feedback from students, parents, educators, and employers continues to fuel GoPursue’s expansion and innovation. Each testimonial and success story is a testament to the platform’s effectiveness and a building block for its future development. As Kathryn looks ahead, she is driven by the potential to scale GoPursue’s impact even further, envisioning a national - if not global - reach that continues to empower young minds to pursue their passions with confidence and support.

Messages of Inspiration

Kathryn leaves two powerful messages. “Live with no regrets,” she advises, a mantra that has guided her through the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. She also encourages budding entrepreneurs to trust their instincts and expertise, even when faced with skepticism. “Heed people’s advice, but if you have industry expertise and have validated your product hypotheses, keep going,” she urges.

GoPursue is a beacon of innovation and social impact, led by a visionary who is changing how students interact with the world of work and how they envision their future in it. Kathryn and her team at GoPursue are crafting a future where every student feels empowered to pursue their ideal career path, fundamentally changing the narrative around career exploration and readiness for future generations.

Developing Tomorrow’s Leaders Today

NEXTGENPRENEUR is revolutionizing the future for young women and girls, transforming them into tomorrow’s leaders, innovators, and entrepreneurs. This powerhouse of empowerment is an edtech and learning platform that arms middle and high-school-aged girls with crucial life and leadership skills missing from traditional education. Leading this bold initiative is Founder and CEO Adeola Ariyo Enikanoselu, whose passion and dedication fuel the mission to forge a generation of confident, capable, and influential young women.

Empowering Through Education

NEXTGENPRENEUR offers a comprehensive curriculum designed to address the gaps in conventional education. “We focus on entrepreneurship, financial literacy, leadership, and mental wellness,” says Adeola. “We aim to nurture business acumen and foster a sense of global citizenship and leadership among our girls.”

The program provides two membership tiers: a self-paced e-learning option and a more interactive tier that includes monthly live virtual sessions with experts. This flexible approach ensures that each participant can learn at her own pace while benefiting from real-time interactions with mentors and peers. “Your scholar can access and take each course at her own pace via our 24/7 robust online learning portal or participate in monthly expertled live virtual sessions,” Adeola explains. “This combination of self-paced learning and live workshops ensures a holistic educational experience.”

“We are dedicated to developing the mindset and skills of young girl leaders and entrepreneurs.”

Innovation in Learning

NEXTGENPRENEUR stands out for its innovative training modules, which cover a wide range of topics crucial for personal and professional growth. These include self leadership, marketing, networking etiquette, communication, the art of pitching, mental health and self-care.

Research indicates that over 71% of Generation Z individuals aspire to start their own businesses or community projects and consider themselves leaders. NEXTGENPRENEUR taps into this potential, providing the tools and mentorship necessary to realize these aspirations.

A Community of Future Leaders

NEXTGENPRENEUR is more than just an educational platform; it is a community where like-minded girls can connect, collaborate, and inspire each other. “Being in a community of other like-minded girl leaders will motivate you and positively impact your growth,” Adeola emphasizes. The program encourages participants to work on projects together, earn prizes, and network with peers, fostering a supportive environment that cultivates confidence and ambition.

The program is designed for middle and high school girls who exhibit leadership skills or wish to develop these skills. With Adeola’s almost two decades of experience working with girls, NEXTGENPRENEUR has curated a curriculum that meets this demographic’s educational and developmental needs. “We support and encourage our girls constantly,” she says. “Each person learns at their own pace, but the community aspect of our program motivates and positively influences everyone involved.”

Lasting Impact

The impact of NEXTGENPRENEUR is profound and lasting. Many parents have witnessed significant transformations in their daughters, from

increased self-confidence to becoming financially savvy to launching their own businesses, or social impact ventures. Participants have not only excelled academically, but have also secured highly-competitive internship and scholarship opportunities, acceptance into top colleges and formed enduring relationships with their mentors and peers.

“We’ve seen girls who were initially unsure about joining our program become some of our most passionate advocates,” Adeola shares. “Their self-confidence increases tremendously, and they go on to achieve remarkable things.”

The Road Ahead

As NEXTGENPRENEUR grows, its commitment to developing the next generation of girl entrepreneurs, leaders, and innovators remains unwavering. Adeola Ariyo Enikanoselu envisions a future where every girl can realize her full potential, regardless of her background or circumstances.

“We are dedicated to developing the mindset and skills of the next generation of girl leaders and entrepreneurs and prepare them to thrive and for the future of work,” Adeola asserts. “It takes time, but the results are truly transformative.”

In a world that constantly evolves, NEXTGENPRENEUR stands as a pillar of progress and empowerment, shaping the future one girl at a time. Through innovative education, a supportive community, and unwavering dedication, NEXTGENPRENEUR is indeed developing tomorrow’s leaders today.

nextgenpreneur

Unlocking Hidden Genius in STEM

Recognizing a significant gap in STEM exposure products and materials for students aged 13 and above, LINGO steps in to fill this void. Aisha Bowe, the Founder and CEO of LINGO, knows firsthand the importance of having access to quality STEM education. Graduating high school with a 2.3 GPA, she discovered her passion for technology in community college. This passion propelled her to earn a degree in Aerospace Engineering and a Master’s in Space Systems Engineering from the University of Michigan, eventually leading to a successful career at NASA.

While many STEM programs and kits are targeted at younger children, this often leaves middle and high school students with fewer age-appropriate and engaging resources. Addressing this gap is LINGO’s mission, as these older students are at a formative stage where they are making important decisions about their educational and career paths.

LINGO’s hands-on STEM kits are designed to unlock the hidden genius in each student through practical instruction and real-life scenarios. Each project builds confidence, imparts hands-on, real-world skills, and develops essential life skills such as problem-solving and creativity. This unique approach ensures that students are not just passive recipients of knowledge but active participants in their learning journey.

Engaging and Fun Learning Experiences

At LINGO, each lesson is a step-by-step journey into exploring coding and engineering, using hardware that real engineers rely on. Students, regardless of experience, dive into areas like self-driving cars, artificial intelligence, and plant health.

The beauty of LINGO’s kits lies in their reusability. Students can continually use the same components to create, making learning both dynamic and sustainable. This hands-on approach builds confidence and imparts critical real-world skills such as problem-solving and creativity.

Imagine the excitement of designing a collision avoidance sensor for a self-driving car, developing a game to test reaction times, or constructing a countdown timer for a rocket launch from scratch. These engaging projects are just a glimpse into the possibilities that LINGO offers. LINGO’s educational approach is designed to prepare young minds for a future where 80% of careers will require STEM expertise.

Bringing STEM to Life

“When we bring LINGO to the classroom, we watch students go from ‘I can’t do this,’ to ‘I am doing this,’ to ‘I am immersed in this,’ to ‘I can’t believe people get paid to do this!’ It’s incredible,” says Aisha Bowe, the visionary behind LINGO. This transformation is the essence of LINGO’s mission: making STEM education accessible, engaging, and inspiring.

One example of this takes us to St. Louis, where LINGO partnered with General Dynamics Information Technology (GDIT) to equip local classrooms. LINGO engineers visited classrooms, with GDIT sharing their expertise and serving as relatable role models for students. Many of these students had never met an engineer and were inspired. Samara, a Riverview Gardens High School student, shared her experience: “I highly recommend doing LINGO. Learning more about what you want to be in life later on or after high school is great. You can even grow out of your shyness.”

LINGO’s inspiring approach has even made it to the small screen in Africa. In Mogotio, Kenya, the newest LINGO lesson, “Countdown to Launch,” was featured in a BBC StoryWorks film sponsored by Logitech. The film highlights the aspirations of 11-year-old Leddy, who is captivated by space exploration. Her ambition to travel beyond our sky was fueled further when Logitech and her teacher, Nelly Cheboi, arranged a classroom visit from Aisha Bowe. As a former NASA Aerospace Engineer and Blue Origin Astronaut, Aisha’s visit included a teaching session encouraging students to reach for the stars.

These stories from St. Louis and Kenya illustrate the profound impact of LINGO’s approach to STEM education. By combining practical, hands-on

learning with real-world applications, LINGO is not just teaching students how to code but inspiring a generation of innovators and problem solvers ready to tackle the challenges of a technology-driven world.

Inspiring the Next Generation Aisha’s vision for LINGO extends far beyond the classroom. She sees a future where every student possesses the confidence and skills to engage with the world of technology fearlessly. To Aisha, these are more than words. She embodies this mission as she embarks on her own journey to touch the sky as a Blue Origin Astronaut. She asserts: “With LINGO, we’re not just teaching students how to code; we’re teaching them how to think critically, solve problems, and engage with the world around them to gain meaningful employment opportunities. That’s the power of education.”

Supported by venture capitalists like D.C. natives 1863 Ventures led by Melissa Bradley and Pinnacle Private Ventures, LINGO is set to redefine the landscape of STEM education, one coding kit at a time.

“With LINGO, we’re not just teaching students how to code; we’re teaching them how to think critically, solve problems, and engage with the world around them to gain meaningful employment opportunities. That’s the power of education.”

UNIVERSITY STARTUPS

Empowering Tomorrow

In the early, uncertain days of the pandemic, two Georgetown University McDonough School of Business professors found themselves contemplating a way to bring more purpose to their work and students’ lives. Marc Steren and John Jabara, both seasoned academics and entrepreneurs, decided to channel their expertise into something transformative. What started as a small virtual class aimed at high school students quickly snowballed into a groundbreaking venture: University Startups.

From Concept to Reality: A Transformative Journey

“During the pandemic, John suggested, ‘Why don’t we teach high school students to launch ventures for social good?’ At the time, we were both professors at Georgetown University McDonough School of Business and found ourselves a bit bored, so we decided to give it a try. We expected about 20 students to sign up for the virtual class, but to our surprise, 67 students enrolled, from Florida to California!” recalls Marc Steren, CoFounder and co-CEO of University Startups.

The overwhelming response to their initial course underscored a significant gap in the education system - a need for practical, hands-on entrepreneurial training that could also drive social impact. This initial success laid the foundation for University Startups, an organization committed to democratizing access to entrepreneurial education and career opportunities, especially for under-resourced learners.

Democratizing Opportunity

As the world grappled with the effects of the pandemic, University Startups was busy turning challenges into opportunities. “About six months later, we began receiving emails from students telling us they had written about their experience in our program for their college essays and had been accepted to prestigious schools such as Dartmouth,” Marc shares. The impact of their program was immediate and profound, paving pathways to higher education for many.

The real turning point came when a foundation approached Steren and Jabara with a proposition: to extend their program to under-resourced high school students. This was a pivotal moment for University Startups, prompting the co-founders to expand their mission. “It was awakening; we knew we had to do more to democratize the opportunity,” Marc adds.

Innovative Education for a New Era

University Startups believes every student deserves a personalized pathway to success. The organization’s innovative approach includes a virtuallydelivered, hands-on program designed to foster an entrepreneurial mindset. This mindset encourages students to think creatively, solve problems, and translate their passions into real-world experiences.

“We believe that startups go through three phases: level one - the founders have all the ideas; level two - the employees repeat these ideas as if the founders said them; level three - the employees generate their own ideas to realize the company’s vision. True innovation occurs at level three when ideas come from a diverse and inclusive group, not just the founders,” Marc explains.

Empowering the Under-Resourced

University Startups’ mission is not only to educate but also to empower. By partnering with nonprofits and foundations, they ensure students from all backgrounds can access their life-changing programs. Their curriculum is designed by educators for educators, ensuring it is impactful without adding to teachers’ workloads.

The entrepreneurial mindset embedded throughout their courses fosters independence, confidence, critical thinking, and problem-solving in students. “Our entrepreneurship incubators focus on minority and female entrepreneurs - adding their diverse voices to our ecosystem,” Marc emphasizes. This focus on diversity and inclusion ensures that a rich mix of perspectives drives innovation.

Building Future-Ready Skills

At the core of University Startups’ program is developing future-ready skills. Engaging activities and interactive virtual classroom assistants empower students to take charge of their futures. The structured course sequences are designed to keep students on the path to success, with flexible scheduling and measurable outcomes.

“Once we had a real ‘hair on fire’ customer that referred us to other customers, it led to more customers and thus more data points into our feedback loop,” Marc says. This referral loop is a testament to the effectiveness of their program, driving continuous improvement and expansion. Today, University Startups operates in nine states and continues to grow.

The Road Ahead

Looking to the future, University Startups is poised to expand its reach even further. “Our company’s mission - empowering under-resourced learners - has enabled us to recruit and retain top-tier team members who are dedicated to the vision of the company,” Marc notes. This dedication is evident in the company’s rapid growth and the increasing number of students it serves.

The organization is also committed to contributing to the broader innovation ecosystem. By fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, University Startups is helping to shape the future of education and entrepreneurship. Its work not only benefits individual students but also drives systemic change in education and workforce development.

A Vision for a Brighter Future

University Startups offers hope and opportunity in a world that is increasingly in need of innovative solutions to educational and social challenges. Through their groundbreaking programs, they prepare students for college and careers and equip them with the entrepreneurial skills needed to navigate and shape the future.

“We are most excited about the future of our company because we know that empowering under-resourced learners is not just a mission; it’s a movement.”

Marc and John’s vision and commitment to democratizing education and fostering innovation are at the heart of University Startups’ success. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, it remains steadfast in its mission to empower the next generation of leaders, thinkers, and innovators.

“We are most excited about the future of our company because we know that empowering under-resourced learners is not just a mission; it’s a movement,” Marc concludes. With such a passionate and dedicated team, University Startups is well on its way to transforming the educational landscape and creating a brighter future for all.

NORTHEASTERN UNIVERSITY

Northeastern’s campus in Arlington, Virginia launched in 2023, joining a growing global university system, now totaling 13 campuses in the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Each Northeastern location offers varying combinations of undergraduate, graduate, and professional learning; useinspired research; and entrepreneurship – all aligned with the talent and innovation needs of the region. The Arlington campus gives Northeastern a foothold in the National Capital Region and provides access to a thriving tech community, evolving government contractor and federal workforces, and key policymakers. At the heart of the Arlington campus is the comingling of the public and private sectors through partnerships with government entities, industry, and the community. Our vision is that Northeastern University will be the preferred academic partner for the government, the community and industry in the National Capital Region. Northeastern’s engagement in the region will yield a high performing workforce equipped to solve the most wicked global problems and will contribute to better outcomes for government and industry.

Strategic Location and Market Alignment

The proximity of campus to Capitol Hill, the Pentagon, and defense and tech industry leaders will enable strategic partnerships across the public and private sectors. Graduate degree programs will initially center on security, technology, innovation, and policy, mirroring the political and economic drivers of the National Capital Region and serving up indemand tech talent to meet employer needs. The campus is co-located with Northeastern’s Kostas Research Institute for Homeland Security, which will enable learners to engage in groundbreaking research in real time. Co-location with KRI will help unlock unique partnership and experiential learning opportunities in classified and unclassified settings and will be a platform for us to grow the pipeline of cleared talent that is desperately needed in the region.

Northeastern’s offerings in Arlington are focused on graduate level programs and certificates designed to close the skills gap in both the private and public sectors in the National Capital Region. Our growing number of master’s programs challenge students with real-world opportunities to develop hands-on job skills, merging academic and career success. Northeastern students graduate with the skills, experience, and confidence necessary to meet and keep pace with the workforce needs of the region’s top industries and the ability to fill mission critical skills gaps across the federal workforce. When you overlay the massive technology transformation underway both inside and outside of government with policy drivers in Congress and the Administration, you can see that our program offerings will position Northeastern to develop the talent that this region needs.

Experiential Education

Northeastern University is a global leader in experiential education across our 13 campus locations. Our new Arlington campus is no exception. We encourage our students to go beyond the classroom and engage in realworld, impactful experiences designed to immerse them within their chosen fields of study. Northeastern University is ranked number one in the country for co-op and internship programs. With over 125 years of coop expertise behind us, our students not only gain theoretical knowledge but actively use their education to interact with real-world projects and the strength of an R-1 top-tier research institution.

Leveraging the Global University System

With over 3,300 corporate, government, and non-profit partnerships around the globe, we position graduate students to learn from and work with the best and most innovative professionals within their desired industry. As a result, when Northeastern graduates enter the workforce

Silicon Valley, Seattle, London and more), give our students access to a global network of 300,000+ alumni in over 180 countries and a supportive community of 9,000 alumni and parents in the National Capital Region.

Innovation Ecosystem

Northeastern University has a long-standing commitment to fostering a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship. The Arlington campus quickly joined the regional innovation ecosystem by hosting events such as the Arlington County Chamber of Commerce’s Women in Business Summit (2023 and 2024) and an Arlington Economic Development Authority event featuring the Citrine Angels, an organization focused on the growth and success of female-founded businesses and increasing access to investment opportunities for women. The campus is also a Northern Virginia Technology Council Academic Partner.

Mollie Wilson - Special Assistant to the Dean, Grace Quigley - Operations Manager, Emily Mazzola - Assistant Director of Student Recruitment and Enrollment, Madison Barton - Graduate Admissions Counselor, Emily DeVitoDirector of Strategic Partnerships, Ronna Halbgewachs - Associate Dean and Campus Administrator, Jendaya Washington - Campus Operations Assistant, Jamie Jones Miller - CEO and Dean, Sharlene Juste - Associate Director of Student Services and Recruitment Story about the

full-time, they do so with curiosity, experience, and confidence. Our global university system also provides learners with the unique experience of collaborating and engaging with their peers and our industry partners across our global campus network. Our network of campuses, all of which, like Arlington, reside in the world’s top innovation hubs (such as Boston,

Arlington campus students with CEO and Dean Jamie Jones Miller on the rooftop deck of the Arlington Tower

Northeastern undergraduates studying law and public policy travel to Washington, D.C. and visit the Arlington campus

New student orientation at the Arlington campus

BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY

MASON ENTERPRISE TM

Building the Entrepreneurs of Today and Tomorrow

Mason EnterpriseTM is a George Mason University-based economic development division that focuses the energy, skills, and intellectual capital of Virginians on new company creation and small business expansion. Through 24 intertwined, complementary programs that include business counseling, workshops, training, and connection to university assets (research, class projects, interns), Mason Enterprise strengthens the strategy development and operations of businesses, governments, and other institutions throughout Virginia and the Greater Washington Metropolitan Region.

Small Business isn’t Small

Last year the client companies Mason Enterprise supported received more than $3.7 Billion in venture capital, angel investment, bank loans, government contracts, and new revenues. Mason Enterprise success is evaluated by the success of its client companies – a total portfolio of more than 30,000 businesses.

Business Advisory Services

Mason Enterprise’s broad team of 200+ business and technical professionals have experience as inventors and entrepreneurs, driven by a passion for helping others succeed. Business counselors offer a plethora

of experiences and expertise: artificial intelligence, cyber security, food and beverage, international business, therapeutic development, and much more. Mason Enterprise staff are most excited when our clients successfully launch a new product or service, hire an employee, increase sales, or receive financing.

Incubation Space

Five Mason Enterprise Centers offer leased office space for businesses to release their full-potential, transform and achieve their goals and create a “soft landing” for companies moving to the region. MEC clients receive preference for intern and class project placement, access to group health insurance and payroll support, special “master class” programs, and several other benefits. Locations: City of Fairfax, Springfield, Herndon, Warrenton, and Arlington.

Talent

As the largest provider of talent in Virginia in a university that was created by the business community 50 years ago, more than 40,000 students across three campuses in Northern Virginia attend programs that meet the region’s business needs. For example, Mason offered the first cyber security and the first cloud computing degrees in the country, developed in partnership with local companies.

Training & Education

Almost 40,000 entrepreneurs and small business owners attended over 900 workshops last year, learning everything from how to start a business, to acquiring a government contract, to launching a new technical product. Whether a 1-hour workshop or an 8-week cyber accelerator, entrepreneurs and small businesses have a menu of no-cost educational training from which to select.

Everyone Benefits

More than 62 percent of Mason Enterprise clients are women-owned businesses, more than 42 percent are minority-owned, and 16 percent are veteran-owned. The team strives to serve its local communities with a national and global set of resources, which includes offering a variety of language options and expertise for the types of businesses and communities served.

Northern Virginia Innovation Corridor

The developing corridor that runs East to West through the three campuses of George Mason University – the largest university in Virginia and largest producer of tech talent - starts in Arlington. Mason’s Arlington campus houses the Institute for Digital Innovation, along with law, policy, business, and peace and conflict resolution. The next building to be finished on the rapidly expanding Arlington campus is the FUSE building, designed to foster interdisciplinary learning, research, and entrepreneurship. It is here that students, corporations, researchers, federal agencies, and entrepreneurs come together to take on this generation’s grand challenges.

Partners

Mason Enterprise is grateful to many partners across Virginia, including Arlington County who supports our Entrepreneur in Residence program. Arlington County is also one of the key supporters of the annual Accelerate Investor Conference and our Accelerate Breakfast Series (acceleratedeals.org). Mason also operates the federal programs: SBA Small Business Development Center, DoD APEX Accelerator, NSF I-Corps, NIH REACH, Women’s Business Center, a Community Development Finance Institution, and a state-wide Innovation and Commercialization Assistant Program (ICAP) and an ICAP mentor program. A network of the counties of Northern Virginia are active and engaged partners and supporters, as are communities throughout Virginia who collaborate to build their local small business economies.

Technology Focus

Mason Enterprise sits in the George Mason University Office of Research and Economic Impact, working in concert with faculty across all schools. Operating programs in partnership with the public universities and incubators across the Commonwealth, Mason Enterprise also closely aligns with federal innovation departments and their technology needs. Mason Enterprise leverages the Institute for Digital Innovation, the Institute for Sustainable Earth, and the Institute for BioHealth Innovation, as well as the Northern Virginia Node of the Commonwealth Cyber Initiative, to bring real-world problems to our applied researchers, and bring cutting edge federal research to the market.

enterprise@gmu.edu

Masonent@gmu.edu

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georgemasonu george-mason-university gmu.edu

The George Washington University (GW) is a vibrant hub of innovation and entrepreneurship. At the core of this dynamic institution are two offices founded in 2010: The Technology Commercialization Office (TCO), a powerhouse dedicated to transforming groundbreaking research into real-world applications, and the Office of Innovation & Entrepreneurship (OIE), fostering an environment where visionary ideas become impactful new ventures.

A Catalyst for Change

The TCO has been instrumental in translating GW’s investigations into the world’s most complex challenges into impactful solutions.

“Our primary goal is to transition GW inventions to the commercial marketplace, and our main tool for accomplishing that is intellectual property licensing,” says Brian Coblitz, Executive Director of the TCO. “We help move GW technologies from the lab to the world, transforming innovative ideas into impactful solutions.”

With its 500,000 square feet of state-of-the-art research space, GW’s Science and Engineering Hall underscores GW’s commitment to cutting-edge research. This facility houses various departments and provides a fertile ground for pioneering research in everything from life-saving medical devices to nextgeneration satellite propulsion systems and computing hardware.

Empowering Visionaries

The OIE trains innovators and entrepreneurs across the GW community, including faculty, researchers, students, alums, as well as innovators within organizations around the world. OIE’s practical, experiential training and programs complement the university’s educational mission, instilling the principles of creativity, problem-solving, value creation, independent thinking, and personal responsibility to help trainees become the next generation of impactful changemakers.

GW students and faculty participating in OIE programming have launched over 350 startups and raised over $1 billion in follow-on financing.

A flagship program of the OIE, the GW New

Venture Competition, has a 16-year history of serving over 3,000 student entrepreneurs and awarding over $2 million in prizes. OIE also provides Lean Startup training and mentorship through its Mentors-in-Residence and Team Development programs.

Building Regional Innovation Resources

The TCO and OIE collaborate with various regional and national programs to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation.

As part of a $15 million National Science Foundation I-Corps Hub, the OIE is boosting regional innovation and providing experiential learning opportunities for faculty and researchers in the Mid-Atlantic region. The TCO co-presents educational and business events with regional entrepreneur groups, investment groups, technology transfer offices, and national startup accelerators.

“Transforming innovative ideas into impactful solutions.”

“Innovation and entrepreneurship represent a learnable mindset and skill set that any student, in any discipline, can apply to their studies and career,” says Kate Heath, OIE’s Director of Student Entrepreneurship. “Our team is passionate about creating best-in-class learning experiences, making sure that everyone can see the relevance of innovation to their work, and building a community where all are welcome.”

Startups Thrive on Tech from Nationally Recognized Inventors

“We focus on deal terms that make it easy for startups to license patents from GW,” asserts Coblitz. Since its inception, the TCO has licensed dozens of inventions to startups, covering a wide range of fields, including therapeutics and cutting-edge devices currently in clinical trials or on the market.

In 2013, GW became a charter member institution of the National Academy of Inventors (NAI), and in 2023, GW launched its own NAI chapter, supported by multiple nationally recognized NAI Fellows. This commitment to innovation has helped create a vibrant ecosystem where research and entrepreneurship thrive.

A Vision for the Future

GW’s early involvement in the National Science Foundation’s I-Corps program for lean innovation training significantly changed the research culture at GW. “Researchers learned how to get out of the lab and talk to people in industry to understand their problems and challenges,” explains Bob Smith, OIE’s Director of I-Corps. This approach has helped focus research programs for more significant impact and success in obtaining funding while also training a new generation of entrepreneurs.

Looking ahead, GW is poised to solve pressing global problems by developing products and services from its research and the companies launched by its students and faculty. The university continues to grow the resources available to support new business formation through technological validation and mentorship.

Leveraging Partnerships for Regional and Global Impact

GW is a founding partner of the Penn West Equity & Innovation District, committed to leveraging technology and creative urban planning to chart the future of American downtowns. With access to low-cost, highly flexible workspace, proximity to diverse tech talent, and connections to government and policymakers, Penn West offers an inclusive and accessible location for all innovators.

“In collaboration with the immigration experts at The Build Fellowship and Penn West, we introduced a competitive part-time employment opportunity for foreign national startup founders seeking immigration solutions to live, work, and build in the U.S.,” shares Smith. This initiative underscores GW’s commitment to fostering a global innovation ecosystem.

A Commitment to Excellence

“GW has a wealth of expertise spanning technology, business, and law that can benefit new enterprises,” Coblitz says. “Partnership with GW can accelerate innovation in the Washington, D.C. region and beyond. We’re excited about the future and its possibilities for furthering our goal of transforming innovative ideas into impactful solutions.”

The George Washington University is not just a hub for innovation; it’s a catalyst for change, driving advancements that make a tangible difference in the world. Through its dedicated efforts, GW continues to pave the way for a brighter, more innovative future.

Inaugural GW Chapter of NAI members

GW’s Science and Engineering Hall

Student-led teams receive prizes at the GW New Venture Competition

Researchers conduct cutting-edge science at GW

Students presenting their work at a GW research showcase

Dean of GW Engineering, John Lach, welcomes inductees to the GW Chapter of NAI

THE HOWARD UNIVERSITY & PNC NATIONAL

CENTER FOR ENTREPRENEURSHIP

Cultivating the Future of HBCU Innovation

Howard University is a bastion of excellence and a catalyst for change. This historically Black College and University (HBCU) has long been at the forefront of educating and empowering diverse minds, and its latest venture, the Howard University & PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship, is no exception.

“The vision is to be a catalyst for economic opportunity for HBCU students, HBCU alums, and Black entrepreneurs broadly.”

Spearheaded by a visionary team led by National Executive Director Erin Horne McKinney, this Center is revolutionizing entrepreneurship and innovation across the nation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and empowering entrepreneurs nationwide. It enhances the success and growth of Blackowned businesses by providing programming, capital, curriculum, research, and other resources in collaboration with HBCUs and their surrounding communities.

The Genesis of a Visionary Initiative

His dedication shines through as he states: “That’s why I do what I do. The ability to make such an impact is why I’m thrilled to get up and work for this Center every morning.”

Building a National Ecosystem

At the heart of the National Center’s mission is the commitment to building a robust, national ecosystem of innovation. This involves a multifaceted approach, addressing everything from access to capital to comprehensive programming. One of the standout initiatives is the annual Black Commerce conference, which convenes students, faculty, staff, innovators, and ecosystem builders from around the country.

“The Black Commerce conference is a place where we connect and empower the next generation of Black entrepreneurs,” explains Dr. Graham. The conference features workshops, panel discussions, and resource fairs, all designed to inspire and equip attendees with the tools they need to succeed.

Empowering Through Education and Research

Education is a cornerstone of the National Center’s strategy. The Entrepreneurship Education Innovation Grant Program provides up to $25,000 to HBCUs to develop and enhance their entrepreneurship curricula and programs. These grants help launch entrepreneurship centers, host pitch competitions, and create courses that foster entrepreneurial skills.

$10,000 award, contributing to a growing body of scholarship that informs and inspires future entrepreneurs.

Its commitment to supporting young entrepreneurs is evident in its HBCU Startup Scholars Program. This program provides $10,000 awards to HBCU student entrepreneurs, complemented by business consulting, workshops, and networking events. “Our scholars are the ambassadors of entrepreneurship on their campuses,” asserts Dr. Graham. “They represent the future of Black business innovation.”

Innovation at the Core

“Innovation means forward-thinking,” Dr. Graham states. “Innovation is advancing society through business, technology, social impact, and beyond. It’s about making the world a better place in a unique and impactful way. That’s the intentional mission of our Center - to fuel and champion innovation, exactly as it should be.” The Center embodies this philosophy by fostering a culture of innovation, creativity, and problem-solving.

One of the Center’s most innovative aspects is its hub-and-spoke model, which connects and supports a network of institutions. “This model allows us to share resources, best practices, and collaborate effectively,” he shares. “Our Center is unique for this to be established with HBCUs to build a network of support and collaboration around innovation ecosystems.”

local levels. Our programs address all aspects of an ecosystem, bringing them together. Supporting faculty and students related to innovation, building the institution’s capacity, and aiding entrepreneurs in the communityall within one resource, one hub, one initiative.”

A Bright Future

As the Center moves forward, its vision remains clear and ambitious. “We’re just getting started,” Dr. Graham emphasizes. The Center aims to increase its support for faculty research, leading to more commercialization opportunities and a more significant economic impact. The Center is also on a mission to expand beyond the campuses of HBCUs and provide entrepreneurship programming and resources to those in the community.

The Howard University & PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and dedication. Its comprehensive programs and unwavering commitment to supporting Black entrepreneurs reshape the landscape of entrepreneurship education at HBCUs, illuminating the path forward for Black entrepreneurs across the nation.

The National Center was born from a significant partnership and a generous gift. “The PNC Foundation catapulted the vision into reality with a game-changing five-year, $16.8 million grant to establish this transformative center,” shares Dr. Johnny Graham, Associate Director of the National Center. This substantial investment has paved the way for a national mission to foster an entrepreneurial spirit and support business owners nationwide. The Center operates with a hub and spoke model, with the National Center headquartered at Howard University in Washington D.C., and regional centers at Howard, Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Morgan State University in Baltimore, and Texas Southern University in Houston, each commanding a four to six-state footprint of impact.

entrepreneurship, so when we think about how to solve those problems, who better to do that than HBCUs? Some of our greatest minds and thinkers have come through these institutions, and they have created significant change.”

Dr. Graham says: “This initiative is truly special because it provides opportunities and support to develop both the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystems, not only on Howard University’s campus but also at over 101 HBCUs across the nation.”

The Center officially launched in the spring of 2023 and has quickly become a hub of innovation and collaboration. “The vision is to be a catalyst for economic opportunity for HBCU students, HBCU alums, and Black entrepreneurs broadly,” says Erin Horne McKinney, the National Center’s National Executive Director.

“There are significant barriers to Black

“By sharing best practices and collaborating, we can make a difference for students and faculty, providing solutions for entrepreneurs in our communities,” he explains. “Every day, we make decisions that provide capital, insights, research support, and programming with regional and national impact.”

Additionally, the Faculty Fellowship Program offers HBCU faculty members the opportunity to engage in cutting-edge research on Black entrepreneurship. Each fellow receives a

Dr. Graham highlights the comprehensive nature of the initiative: “We are supporting and providing programs at national, regional, and

hupnc_center

hupnccenter.howard.edu

CHAPTER FOUR

PREVIEWIMAGE INNOVATION IN FINANCE, INVESTING, LAW & ACCOUNTING

in economic impact and created more than 12,000 jobs in the state. This economic dynamo has also contributed over $140 million in state and local tax revenue annually, underscoring its role as a critical driver of Maryland’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“Given our focus on bringing ‘leading innovation to market,’ the ‘tipping point’ was the creation of TEDCO 26 years ago,” LeMaile-Stovall notes.

Leading Innovation to Market in Maryland

TEDCO is Maryland’s powerhouse of technology and innovation, driving progress and creating boundless opportunities. Founded by the Maryland General Assembly in 1998, TEDCO (Maryland Technology Development Corporation) has been at the forefront of fostering an inclusive and entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Troy A. LeMaile-Stovall, TEDCO continues to shape the future of early-stage technology and life sciences firms, driving economic empowerment and technological advancement across the state.

Driving Economic Impact

TEDCO began with a clear mission: to enhance economic empowerment by fostering an inclusive and entrepreneurial innovation ecosystem. Over the past 26 years, this mission has driven TEDCO’s efforts to identify, invest in, and help grow technology companies in Maryland. From its inception, TEDCO has been committed to bringing innovation to market, a task that has not been without its challenges.

“I’m a fan of etymology - the history of words - and the root of the word innovation means ‘to renew or change; to introduce something new,” said LeMaile-Stovall. “And while innovations bring something new into the world, it doesn’t mean they go to market. Unfortunately, many innovations never get commercialized – that is one of the challenges in Maryland. And with the state housing a leading number of federal institutions and research dollars, we should be commercializing these innovations; that is where TEDCO comes in.”

The organization’s impact on Maryland’s economy is nothing short of remarkable. Since its establishment, TEDCO has generated over $2.7 billion

“We believe every entrepreneur faces three challenges – time, talent, and treasure-hunting. TEDCO provides funding (grants and direct investments) and a foundation (advice and support) that leads to the State gaining more scale in resources, ensuring more entities are stitched tighter, and having the data to story tell and creating a ‘do-loop’ of scaling, stitching, and storytelling. And those three lead to a higher level of stickiness of firms that start, scale, and stay in Maryland.”

Core Values that Unite

At the heart of TEDCO’s success are its core values: accountability, collaboration, integrity, respect, and stewardship. These values guide TEDCO’s efforts and interactions, ensuring excellence in serving its stakeholders and carrying out its mission.

“Innovation is not just about bringing something new into the world; it’s about ensuring that these innovations make it to the market and create a lasting impact.”

“It starts with what we call our 1TEDCO colleagues – we spend time supporting and investing in our team. The other secret sauce is our Core Values – accountability, collaboration, integrity, respect, and stewardship,” LeMaile-Stovall emphasizes. “Our team, with our Core Values, has led TEDCO to become one of the country’s most impactful venture development organizations (VDOs), creating almost $3B in impact for the state.”

Programs and Initiatives

TEDCO’s influence extends through a variety of programs and initiatives designed to support Maryland’s technology and life sciences sectors. The Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII) and the Maryland Stem Cell Research Fund (MSCRF) are just two examples of how TEDCO leverages state and federal funds to drive technological advancements and support early-stage firms.

“TEDCO contributes to Maryland’s innovation ecosystem in several impactful ways: through our tech transfer efforts via the MII and MSCRF; our collaborations with federal facilities across Maryland; our marketing and development efforts that enhance storytelling and resource acquisition; and our investment initiatives focused on identifying and scaling early-stage tech and life sciences firms. We ensure these efforts reach all regions and demographics in the state,” LeMaile-Stovall shares.

TEDCO’s approach is uniquely centered on the people behind the innovations. “At the early stage TEDCO invests in, we look closely at the people over the plan; or said another way, we look for A-quality founders with B-quality plans and never the reverse,” he says. “Even traditional retail businesses can be tech-enabled, and we help those firms develop that tech basis. We want to ask if they are traditional retail businesses using tech to change that sector or if they are tech entrepreneurs using it to change that sector. Either case, they are a candidate for TEDCO support.”

Looking Ahead

As TEDCO looks to the future, the organization remains committed to its mission and vision. With a focus on translational research, technologybased economic development, and fostering an inclusive innovation ecosystem, TEDCO is poised to continue its legacy of driving innovation and economic empowerment in Maryland.

“What excites me most about TEDCO’s future is our continued ability to significantly impact Maryland’s economy and innovation ecosystem,” LeMaile-Stovall says. “Our efforts in tech transfer, investment, and support for early-stage companies are just the beginning. We are dedicated to ensuring that our resources and initiatives reach all regions and demographics in the state, creating a more inclusive and prosperous future for Maryland.”

TEDCO’s story is one of vision, dedication, and unwavering commitment to fostering innovation and economic empowerment. As LeMaile-Stovall aptly puts it, “Innovation is not just about bringing something new into the world; it’s about ensuring that these innovations make it to the market and create a lasting impact. That is the essence of TEDCO’s mission, and we are proud to lead the way in Maryland.” With TEDCO at the helm, Maryland’s innovation ecosystem is not just thriving – it’s leading the way, one groundbreaking idea at a time.

NEXT is a trailblazer in the innovative business sector, offering advanced startup-centric legal solutions. Born from the established law firm Shulman Rogers, NEXT is redefining legal services for startups and emerging growth companies. NEXT founder Anthony Millin drew from his experience as an entrepreneur, partner in an early-stage VC Fund, and lawyer, to craft a business that not only understands but speaks the language of entrepreneurs and sets a new standard for legal support in the dynamic world of startups.

The Genesis of Innovation

NEXT’s story began in 2018 within the walls of Shulman Rogers, a 100-attorney law firm, where Millin envisioned a new frontier for legal services that would free early-stage companies from the billable-hour model and offer more predictability. Driven by the desire to address the unique challenges faced by startups, Millin saw an opportunity to innovate.

He observed that founders struggled with the need for a predictable legal budget while facing a complex and challenging legal landscape. “Our mission was to bridge this gap,” Millin reflects, “by productizing a broad range of legal services into fixed-price packages that include guidance, strategy, documentation, negotiations, and more, creating a legal service that aligns perfectly with the fast-paced, evolving needs of startups.”

NEXT becomes a partner in the entrepreneurial journey, reshaping the way legal support is delivered to the innovators of tomorrow. Essentially, Millin, co-chair Larry Bard, Chief Revenue Officer Lisa Friedlander, and the NEXT team have revolutionized how lawyers and legal customers interact. “We’re on a mission to empower startup success beyond the core legal services we provide. We’ve changed how customer service is delivered in the legal industry with a client-centric approach that includes customer relationship managers and integrates technology to increase collaboration, transparency, and efficiency,” asserts Millin.

This NEXT Practice Group within Shulman Rogers has launched several innovative platforms: StartupU, an educational resource for founders; Pitchmasters, a safe environment for practicing investment pitches; NEXT Marketplace, connecting startups with over 100 service providers; and NEXT Raise, facilitating connections between founders and investors. These initiatives are part of NEXT’s comprehensive, customer-centric service offering, emphasizing their commitment to supporting the startup ecosystem. “Focusing and working with seasoned attorneys in the startup space is essential. We’ve created a structured pathway to guide startups through their legal journey,” Millin emphasizes.

From initial formation to complex financing rounds, NEXT’s roadmap demystifies legal processes, allowing entrepreneurs to focus on what they do best: innovating and growing their businesses. At the core of NEXT’s

ethos is a deep understanding of the startup world, a domain where agility and clarity are not just desired but essential. “Startups operate at a breakneck pace, and they need legal services that can keep up,” Millin points out. From securing financing to bringing on employees, NEXT provides tailored solutions that align perfectly with the fast-paced and often unpredictable journey of startup growth and development. This alignment has positioned NEXT as a crucial ally for startups.

Fixed-Price Legal Packages

In addition to providing sophisticated legal services, this company also created fixed-price legal packages with innovative pricing structures that have impacted the traditional legal service model. “We help startups better manage their Profit and Loss Statements,” shares Millin. “It’s difficult to manage a P&L if you can’t predict certain expenses that are critical parts of the expense side of your P&L – and that’s where legal has traditionally been,” says Millin. Budgeting for legal services is a significant challenge for early-stage startups, creating stress in accessing high-quality, comprehensive legal advice. NEXT addresses this by providing startups with seasoned attorneys, which is often not the case in other models where senior partners are less accessible. This access to experienced legal guidance is a crucial aspect of NEXT’s model. This ensures startups receive high-quality legal documents and invaluable advice from seasoned professionals.

Leveraging Technology for Enhanced Service

NEXT’s innovation extends beyond legal packages to the realm of technology, revolutionizing client experiences. “We’re highly focused on collaborating with clients more effectively, efficiently, and transparently – so, integrating cutting-edge technology has been a game-changer for us,” says Millin. This technological integration allows NEXT to offer more streamlined and efficient services, significantly improving client interactions and outcomes. It’s a testament to the company’s commitment to keeping pace with the evolving business landscape and leading the charge in transforming how legal services are delivered in an increasingly digital world.

“Startups operate at a breakneck pace, and they need legal services that can keep up.”

Educating Entrepreneurs

What sets NEXT even further apart from its legal counterparts is that it has gone beyond legal “to create an entire ecosystem and platform centered on helping startups succeed and fulfill their mission,” asserts Millin. He emphasizes this commitment: “Startup owners must understand the legal landscape they operate in.” Through its educational platform, StartupU, NEXT empowers entrepreneurs with essential legal knowledge, equipping them with the tools to make informed business decisions. This educational initiative reflects Millin’s vision of a comprehensive support system for startups, where legal acumen goes hand in hand with entrepreneurial success.

The Impact and Recognition

The impact of NEXT on the startup ecosystem has been profound and widely recognized. Millin reflects: “Seeing startups thrive with our support has been incredibly rewarding.” This success is not just anecdotal; NEXT has received national recognition for its innovative approach, establishing itself as a leader in legal services for startups. For four consecutive years, NEXT has been acknowledged as an industry leader by top legal publishers like Legal Week and American Lawyer. The firm has been honored as the law firm of the year for startups and emerging growth companies. Additionally, it has been a finalist for the best law firm for startup success and for the most innovative legal services in the US in 2023. And was awarded the nation’s top law firm for Enabling Startup Success in 2024.

This recognition underscores NEXT’s unique and valuable contributions to the market.

Future Outlook

Looking ahead, NEXT is poised for continued evolution and expansion. “We are constantly exploring new ways to serve our clients better,” Millin shares. Plans for further integrating advanced technologies and expanding their service offerings are in the pipeline. This momentum reflects NEXT’s commitment to being at the forefront of legal innovation, ensuring that it remains relevant and a trailblazer in the ever-changing landscape of startup businesses. With its unique approach to legal services, NEXT has become a beacon for entrepreneurs, guiding them through their business journey.

REVOLUTION

Pioneering the Next Wave of Innovation

Founded by AOL co-founder Steve Case, the DC-based investment firm Revolution emerged in 2005 with a bold mission: to invest in startups around the country – highlighting venture opportunity beyond Silicon Valley and partnering with founders who recognize the transformative impact of policy and regulation in helping them build market-defining companies. By championing entrepreneurs nationwide, Revolution is helping to upend ageold industry models and unleash the next wave of innovation and economic power in cities across the country.

A Family of Funds

Revolution looks to partner with passionate founders across the entrepreneurial lifecycle. With its family of funds –Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund, Revolution Ventures, and Revolution Growth – the firm closely supports companies through every stage of growth. Revolution Growth, founded with Monumental (Washington Wizards and Caps) CEO and majority owner Ted Leonsis, backs late-stage growth companies such as Sweetgreen, Cava, DraftKings, Optoro, and Scopely. Revolution Ventures zeroes in on early-stage innovators, backing standout firms like Framebridge, Homesnap, and GoodBuy Gear. Meanwhile,

Revolution’s Rise of the Rest Seed Fund seeks out the brightest seed-stage startups with investments in companies like Cambium Carbon, Catalyte, and Placemakr.

In contrast with Revolution Growth and Revolution Ventures, the Rise of the Rest Seed Fund is backed by individuals (vs. institutional investors) who believe that the next great company could emerge from an ecosystem beyond Silicon Valley. The group includes investors, executives, and founders such as Henry Kravis, Ray Dalio, Sara Blakely, Jeff Bezos, David Rubenstein, and Tory Burch.

The relationships have created a proprietary network that funnel unique and often early dealflow. To date, Revolution has invested in more than 200 startups in more than 100 cities outside of Silicon Valley.

Policy Matters

Often, tech and government are viewed as being at odds with one another. Revolution recognizes the importance of changing that dynamic. In particular, the firm focuses on supporting startups as they aim to manage risk and seize opportunities in D.C. As one of the few D.C.-based venture firms, Revolution’s deep roots in policy circles position the firm to offer advice, intel, and introductions to founders that support navigating complex regulatory challenges.

Revolutionizing Real Estate Investment

Rise of the Rest: A Mission to Uncover Hidden Gems

As Revolution Chairman and CEO Steve Case often says, “Although talent is equally distributed; opportunity is not.” A staggering 75 percent of venture capital funds are allocated to just three states: California, New York, and Massachusetts. While many firms expanded their investing aperture during the Zoom days of Covid, Revolution has intentionally looked outside Silicon Valley for deals for over two decades. The firm launched the Rise of the Rest Road Trip in 2014 to highlight this element of its investment philosophy. The tour travels to startup ecosystems nationwide, visiting

everywhere from startup offices to university programs to coding boot camps, to highlight what innovation means in each community.

The team has traveled to more than 45 cities and logged more than 11,000 miles on a bus to shine a spotlight on the technology that promises to create new industries or innovate on existing ones. Revolution’s frequent trips to cities across the country are a differentiator. The firm believes that a boots-on-the-ground approach is critical. It allows the team’s investors to hear from other VCs, policymakers, and business leaders about what helps and hinders startups in a particular location.

Revolution Places, Revolution’s hospitality arm, taps into distinctive opportunities within the travel and real estate development space, forging new tourism models that champion a healthy lifestyle. It invests in differentiated properties with significant long-term development potential and branded, lifestyle hospitality companies with the opportunity to scale. Revolution also has a real estate initiative that invests in multi-use and residential projects to support bringing talent to growing startup ecosystems in Rise of the Rest cities across the country.

The Revolution Continues. With each investment and initiative, Revolution redefines what it means to innovate, not just navigating change but being a catalyst for it – a true revolution in every sense of the word.

DAINTREE

Investing In A Diverse Future

Daintree Capital emerges in the Washington, D.C., landscape not just as an investment firm but as a beacon of innovation and diversity. Founded by Alisha Griffey, a visionary with deep roots in the startup ecosystem, Daintree Capital’s mission resonates with the rich diversity of its namesake, the ancient Daintree Rainforest in Australia. Alisha shares: “Rainforests thrive because of their diversity, not despite it. Its diversity is the very reason for its resilience and longevity. That’s the philosophy at the core of our investment strategy.”

A Vision Born from Experience

Alisha’s journey to founding Daintree Capital was fueled by her first-hand experiences in the startup world, where she observed a glaring gap in funding and representation. “I spent a decade in the startup world where I saw first-hand the noticeable lack of diversity in who gets funded. I was often the only woman in executive team or board meetings, and people of color were almost entirely absent.” After researching the topic, Alisha was horrified to realize the extent of the issue: In the U.S., less than 2% of venture capital goes to women-led companies; it’s a mere 0.5% for black women.

She recounts her lightbulb moment: “Since less than 2% of venture capital goes to women-led companies, I realised you either believe men have 98% of the best new business ideas, or you believe something is broken in how we fund early-stage companies. It wasn’t hard to figure out which one I believed to be true.” This disparity made her see the overlooked potential in women entrepreneurs, and she shortly later moved from being an operator to becoming an investor so she could focus full-time on rectifying this imbalance. Her resolve to bridge this gap led to the inception of Daintree Capital. Since its founding, Daintree has made over 100 loans to under-represented founders. With a less than 2% default rate, Daintree is also making money for investors, proving that investing in these companies pays off. “I’m excited, but not surprised, that we’ve generated returns for investors while having a big impact on the companies we fund. There’s a lot of work left to be done given the massive imbalance in the flow of funds to under-represented founders. I hope our results will encourage other investors to jump in,” she adds.

Redefining

Investment Strategies

Daintree’s investment approach is innovative. Traditionally, early-stage companies rely on equity investments from angel investors or venture

capital firms, which often expect a tenfold return in a short period. However, this rapid growth expectation doesn’t suit all companies. Daintree invests via working capital loans as they enable investment in a broader range of business models and growth rates. It also can be a founder-friendly growth model as it allows business owners to retain ownership. Daintree invests in companies with strong unit economics that are growing, but perhaps not at the hyper rates often demanded by Silicon Valley investors.

Daintree also offers smaller check sizes, enabling it to support early-stage companies often overlooked by larger investors. Alisha notes: “Our check size is $10K-$75K, which is smaller than most investors, but we saw the need for smaller and more frequent influxes of capital to help these companies grow. Our focus on debt funding allows founders to retain more control and grow at a pace that’s right for their business.” This approach is not only more inclusive but also aligns with Daintree’s commitment to fostering long-term, sustainable growth in diverse business ecosystems.

Alisha asserts: “Daintree has provided over $4 million in growth capital through small checks that have big impact. The most gratifying achievement is that these investments have led companies to double their revenues within the first year of receiving the loans. To me, that shows it’s working”

Embracing Diversity in Action

Alisha points out that venture capital’s failure to invest in women and people of color is particularly shocking given that strong data shows companies led by diverse teams tend to grow revenue and achieve profitability faster than companies that lack gender and/or racial diversity in their executive teams.

“Investing in diverse founders isn’t just a moral imperative; it’s a strategic advantage,” says Alisha. The firm actively seeks out and supports founding teams from varied backgrounds, focusing on women and people of color. This dedication to diversity is not just about righting historical imbalances; it’s about tapping into a wellspring of creativity, innovation, and resilience that has been overlooked for decades.

Impact Beyond Investment

Daintree has also embraced an innovative approach to fundraising. Rather than raise a traditional investment fund, it’s built an impact fund on a non-

“Less than 2% of venture capital goes to women-led companies. So, either you believe men have 98% of the best new business ideas, or you believe something is broken in how we fund early-stage companies.”

profit platform, allowing individuals to invest using philanthropic dollars. Alisha elaborates: “Once I learned there was $234B sitting unallocated in donor-advised funds (DAFs), I realized there was a huge opportunity to expand our impact by offering an investment alternative for money already ear-marked for charitable contributions, but currently sitting in money markets or other traditional investments within DAFs.” This unique fundraising approach gives Daintree access to patient, low-cost capital that it uses to fund small business loans. This approach allows it to focus on specific market segments where it sees the most impact, but are often overlooked because the check size is too small for traditional investors.

Daintree’s innovative impact fund provides donors a tax-efficient way to invest in diverse businesses. It’s a double-impact strategy: investors can grow their charitable funds through interest-earning investments while working to close the gender and racial wealth gap by investing in businesses run by women and people of color. She adds: “Most people don’t realize you can invest in for-profit companies from your DAF. But that’s simply because the big DAF platforms would rather you keep your money in their investment funds.”

A Model for the Future

Under Alisha’s leadership, Daintree Capital is an example of what innovation looks like within the financial sector. Daintree is paving the way for a more equitable future. She comments: “The one benefit of the investment in women-led companies being so abysmal is that it makes it painfully obvious that small changes won’t be enough; it’s time for wholesale reinvention of how we fund small businesses.”

She adds: “I hope to work myself out of a job one day. Once half the CEOs in America are women, I plan to retire.”

Supporting Female Founders and Funders for a Stronger Entrepreneurial Ecosystem

In a world where investment landscapes favor men, Citrine Angels emerges as a game-changer for its support of female founders and funders. Founded in 2019 by Allyson Redpath along with DC power players Lisa Friedlander, Stephanie Bauer Marshall and Aurelia Flores, Citrine Angels is a dynamic, female-only membership group based in Washington, D.C. The organization provides early-stage investment opportunities to female-founded companies and education to female investors. With over 75 members and more than $1.3 million invested in 20+ female-founded startups, Citrine Angels is not just closing the gender funding gap; it is transforming the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

A Vision Born from Necessity

Allyson’s path to establishing Citrine Angels began with a simple yet powerful observation.

“We’re filling a need in the investment community by bringing in more female funders and increasing access to capital to female founders.”

“When I moved back to Maryland from New York, I started talking to companies about doing CFO work for them. The answer kept coming back: we need help raising money. That’s the big need,” she recalls. This need and the noticeable absence of women in early-stage investment events fueled her determination to create Citrine Angels. “I was pretty startled and dismayed that there were few women in the room,” she shares. The realization that Washington, D.C., despite its high proportion of accomplished women, lacked an angel investment group for women was the catalyst for Citrine Angels.

A Mission of Empowerment and Prosperity

Citrine Angels is driven by a clear and compelling mission: to support the growth and success of female-founded businesses and increase women’s access to investment opportunities. This mission is deeply rooted in the symbolism of its name. Citrine, a crystal known for manifesting prosperity, perfectly embodies the organization’s goal of fostering financial success and growth for entrepreneurs and investors.

As a 501(c)(6) not-for-profit organization, Citrine Angels is unique in the mid-Atlantic region. In an industry where 90% of angel investments

A Commitment to Education

are made by and given to men, Citrine Angels stands out by providing education and resources for women investors and pledging full support to female-founded companies, particularly those led by BIPOC women. “Our focus is to provide both the financial backing and the necessary resources, networks, and expertise to help female-founded businesses grow and succeed,” says Allyson.

A Structured and Supportive Approach

Citrine Angels offers a structured process to assist accredited investors in making early-stage investments in female-founded companies. For entrepreneurs, the journey begins with an online application. If the company meets the initial criteria, it is invited to a prescreening meeting with the Deal Flow Committee. Successful candidates then can present to the entire group at one of Citrine Angels’ investor pitch meetings.

“We want to understand your goals and help you succeed. We’ll provide feedback and business advice to you if we meet, even if we don’t invest,” she explains. This supportive environment extends beyond just funding. It includes timely decision-making, constructive feedback, and mentoring, creating a nurturing ecosystem for growth.

Education is a cornerstone of Citrine Angels’ mission. The organization recognizes that many members are new to angel investing and offers a comprehensive investor education program. This includes an Angel Investing 101 session for beginners and workshops on more advanced topics such as investment term sheets, understanding financial statements, building an investment thesis, and due diligence.

“Our monthly meetings and additional education sessions provide many occasions to meet like-minded women,” she notes. The organization partners with legal, accounting, and other experts to provide valuable insights and training, ensuring members are well-equipped to make informed investment decisions. “We are filling a need within the investing community by focusing on female founders and funders, making investing accessible to this cohort,” she adds.

Collaborative and Flexible Investment

One of Citrine Angels’ unique aspects is its highly supportive and collaborative setting. Group discussions among investors with diverse backgrounds improve the decision-making process and provide a rich learning experience for new and seasoned investors. The Deal Flow Committee is crucial in prescreening potential companies and presenting members with curated opportunities.

“Our flexible investment amount, with no minimum requirement, allows members to participate at a level that suits them,” Allyson highlights. This flexibility, coupled with the group’s ability to meet a founder’s minimum investment threshold by combining investments via Special Purpose Vehicles, makes Citrine Angels an attractive option for investors and entrepreneurs. “We keep the membership fee low and make it easy for new members to join, which can be done simply on our website,” she explains.

The Power of Sponsorship

Citrine Angels also offers sponsorship opportunities, allowing companies to support the growth of women-founded businesses while gaining access to investment opportunities for women. This dual benefit aligns with the

organization’s mission of fostering a supportive ecosystem for female entrepreneurs. In addition, Citrine works with area economic development organizations such as Arlington Economic Development to support the growth of the local startup ecosystem.

Why Pitch to Citrine Angels?

For female entrepreneurs, pitching to Citrine Angels offers more than just potential funding. The organization provides a supportive environment that values understanding and helping companies succeed. Entrepreneurs receive feedback, business advice, and the possibility of mentorship from experienced executives.

“We’re a matchmaker and a facilitator of information between investors and founders,” Redpath explains. This matchmaking role ensures both parties benefit from the relationship, driving prosperity and innovation.

A Catalyst for Change

Citrine Angels is not just an investment group but a catalyst for change in the investment community. By providing financial backing, mentorship, and education, the organization empowers female investors - and aspiring investors - to make an impact in a male-dominated industry and help female entrepreneurs break through and succeed. The team’s visionary leadership and dedication have created a vibrant community reshaping the landscape of angel investing in Washington, D.C., and beyond.

“I’m so happy and proud to see the amazing group of women that this concept has attracted: smart, successful, mission-driven, down-to-earth, nice people who are enthusiastically building the culture and programs at Citrine,” she says. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, it remains steadfast in supporting the success of female-founded businesses, working towards ensuring a brighter, more equitable future for all.

Citrine Angels cofounders (left to right) Lisa Friedlander, Allyson Redpath, and Aurelia Flores (with Stephanie Marshall not pictured) in Georgetown at one of the group’s 2019 inaugural cocktail parties.

Citrine Angels members participate in educational sessions throughout the year to network amongst each other and better understand different aspects of investing.

Several Citrine Angels members and founders gather at D.C. Startup Week in 2023.

Citrine Angels facilitated a standing room only session on the importance of women investing in women at D.C. Startup Week in 2023.

Pioneering the Future of Finance

“Circle is focused on raising global economic prosperity through the frictionless exchange of value by empowering businesses with digital currencies and blockchain technology.”

Founded with the ambitious goal of raising global economic prosperity through the frictionless exchange of value, Circle leverages the power of digital currencies and blockchain technology to redefine payments, commerce, and finance.

Circle is focused on raising global economic prosperity through the frictionless exchange of value by empowering businesses with digital currencies and blockchain technology for payments, commerce, and finance. Circle’s digital dollar, USDC, and Web3 services are creating a more connected, inclusive era of financial services at internet speed.

It issues USDC, a digital currency that is always redeemable 1:1 for US dollars. Circle has always prioritized a regulation-first posture for USDC. By leading with transparency, USDC can potentially change how money moves worldwide.

Circle’s digital dollar, USDC, and Web3 services are forging a more connected, inclusive era of financial services at internet speed.

A Journey from Vision to Mainstream

Circle’s inception in 2013 by Jeremy Allaire was marked by a bold vision: to integrate traditional money seamlessly into the digital realm, thereby unlocking the untapped potential of open, interoperable global networks. In 2013, the landscape was barren - technology, industry understanding, and regulatory awareness were in their infancy. Yet, Circle was convinced that the impact of digital currency on the open internet would be monumental, perhaps even more so than the internet of information itself.

A decade later, this vision has crystallized into reality. Circle’s USDC, a regulated digital

dollar, has become a cornerstone of the new financial era, epitomizing the shift towards utility value in blockchain and programmable, always-on money.

The Essence of Innovation

For Circle, innovation transcends being just a trendy term; it’s a continuous quest for unparalleled excellence. To Circle, Innovation means pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with how money moves. It’s about continuously exploring new technologies and methodologies to address the enduring challenges of the financial industry with an unwavering commitment to security, transparency, and trust.

USDC: A Testament to Trust and Transparency

Circle’s flagship innovation, USDC, represents a digital version of the dollar, fully backed by highly-liquid assets and redeemable on a 1:1 basis for US dollars. Its impact has been profound, powering over $13 trillion in cumulative on-chain transactions and extending its reach to over 190 countries. USDC transcends crypto speculation, touching lives through payments, remittances, and humanitarian aid. It’s about promoting financial inclusion and enabling low-cost, internet-native global payments.

This firm has consistently embraced a regulation-first approach with USDC, championing digital dollars to empower businesses, foster financial inclusion, and facilitate low-cost, internet-native payments worldwide. Over six years, USDC has become Circle’s innovation cornerstone, forming partnerships for secure, instant global transactions toward an inclusive financial future. Today, leading payment and settlement firms, blockchain credit markets, internet-born fintechs, neobanks, remittance companies, NGOs, and

A Future Charged with Possibilities

Looking ahead, Circle is poised at the cusp of untold possibilities. Circle has only scratched the surface of what’s possible with open money. There are many opportunities ahead to expand the utility, accessibility, and understanding of digital finance through strategic partnerships, product innovation, and regulatory advancements. Through strategic alliances, product innovations, and regulatory advancements, Circle aims to unlock the potential of open money further.

Championing Regulation and Advocacy

In a landscape often marred by regulatory uncertainties, Circle stands out for its proactive approach to regulation and advocacy. From the onset, Circle has championed a full-reserve banking model and engaged with policymakers to shape a more efficient, fair, and resilient financial system.

The story of Circle is a compelling testament to the transformative power of digital currency and blockchain technology. With a firm belief in the potential to elevate global economic prosperity, Circle continues to lead by example, driving the future of finance toward a more inclusive, efficient, and interconnected world.

DC DAO AND ETHDC

Building a Web3 Hub in the Nation’s Capital

“Our mission is to build a vibrant community that empowers connection, champions innovation, and works with leading industry participants to add a builder-focused voice to forward-thinking policies.”

DC DAO and ETHDC are at the forefront of a transformative movement in the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia region. As a steward of the DC DAO and a pivotal figure in ETHDC, Shailee Adinolfi is driving a mission to unite the area’s fragmented blockchain and crypto communities into a cohesive, vibrant hub of innovation.

“We established a DAO (Decentralized Autonomous Organization) in the DMV area because we noticed many builders in the region were not directly communicating with each other,” Shailee explains. “The DMV is rather spread out, so we needed to create a hub where people could meet, network, learn from each other, and grow together.”

Gerald Gallagher, partner at DC DAO and ETHDC, shares: “The DC DAO is a city DAO organized as a limited cooperative association. We aim to unite DC’s crypto communities, enable local builders and businesses to participate in the crypto ecosystem, and educate policymakers about the benefits of Web3. DC DAO is dedicated to fostering a vibrant and collaborative Web3-focused ecosystem in our nation’s capital.”

Building the Hub: The Birth of DC DAO

DC DAO was founded with three guiding pillars: community, innovation, and policy. These pillars are not just theoretical; they are actionable goals that shape every initiative and event. “Our mission is to build a vibrant community that empowers connection, champions innovation, and works with leading industry participants to add a builder-focused voice to forward-thinking policies,” Shailee shares. The organization uses

decentralized governance to create a space where voices are heard, ideas flourish, and collective actions drive impactful change.

DC DAO’s structure as a limited cooperative association ensures that every member, from Patron Members who financially support the organization to Contributor Members who work on initiatives, has a significant say in its direction. “Participation means that all member classes will contribute to and vote on specific initiatives put forth by both the stewards and the community,” says Shailee. This democratic approach ensures that the DAO reflects its members’ diverse and dynamic needs.

There are seven DC DAO stewards, and each is driving its success. This team comprises Shailee Adinolfi, Ellis Norman, Gerald Gallagher, Monica Anshel, Mike Chan, Brenda Loya, and Tom McCarthy.

ETHDC: A Conference for Builders by Builders

One of DC DAO’s standout initiatives is ETHDC, a conference designed to spotlight and support crypto and blockchain developers in the DMV area.

“The idea of ETHDC originated because we wanted to create an event for ourselves that wasn’t centered around policy,” Shailee recalls. “We’ve discussed topics like scaling, roll-ups, token standards, and abstraction - all the aspects we need to focus on to scale, grow, succeed in this space, and collaborate with one another.”

ETHDC draws inspiration from other successful ETH conferences like ETH Denver and ECC in Paris. However, it has a unique focus tailored to the needs of the DMV community. “I wanted to bring some of that to D.C., recognizing that while the community here is smaller, there is a genuine interest in having those types of conversations,” Shailee explains. The inaugural ETHDC event was a resounding success, attracting hundreds of participants and setting the stage for future growth.

Innovating Together: The Power of Collaboration

At the heart of DC DAO and ETHDC is a commitment to collaboration.

This is about building individual projects and creating a thriving ecosystem where participants can learn, grow, and innovate together.

“We’re deep experts in the crypto space,” says Shailee. “Many of us in the DC DAO community are operators. We are working for crypto companies or deploying capital into crypto companies, and we want to partner and grow together.”

This collaborative ethos extends to the events and initiatives that DC DAO organizes. Every event is designed to foster connections and spark new ideas, from happy hours and breakfasts to co-working sessions and panel discussions. “Join us, grow your community with us, and develop your application or protocol with us,” Shailee urges. “We want to learn from you and provide resources for you, leveraging our community to test and use your protocol or application.”

A Future-Focused Vision

Shailee envisions DC DAO becoming a leading innovation hub on the East Coast. “The larger vision is to grow this community to thousands of builders in the crypto ecosystem based in this area and make it a hub,” she shares. With the DMV’s unique combination of educated technologists,

significant technology service providers, and proximity to global policy hubs, the region has all the foundational elements needed to become a major player in the blockchain and crypto world.

DC DAO is also launching an initial collection of 1,776 NFT memberships, symbolizing crypto’s bold progress and offering members a significant say in the cooperative’s strategic direction. “Joining DC DAO provides membership in a cooperative that will build the future of crypto in D.C.,” Shailee says. Members can attend exclusive events, participate in on-chain voting, and contribute to community-driven projects, ensuring that the DAO remains responsive to its members’ evolving needs.

Conclusion: Join the Revolution

DC DAO and ETHDC are more than just organizations; they are movements that embody the spirit of innovation, community, and decentralized governance. They offer builders, technologists, and crypto enthusiasts a unique opportunity to come together, learn from each other, and drive meaningful change in the Web3 space. “We are not just talking about innovation; we are living it,” Shailee concludes. “We invite everyone to join us on this incredible journey to build a brighter future for the crypto community in the DMV and beyond.”

The future of blockchain and crypto in the nation’s capital is bright, and with leaders like Shailee Adinolfi at the helm, DC DAO and ETHDC are poised to lead the charge.

HARNESSING INNOVATION TO TRANSFORM FINANCIAL TRANSACTIONS

“We are not just facilitating transactions; we are redefining them to create tangible benefits for our clients.”

In the bustling city of Washington, D.C., a pioneering force is reshaping the financial contours of the food and beverage industry. freely Payments, a visionary B2B payments gateway, has not just entered the market but has fundamentally altered how wholesale food distributors and restaurants handle financial transactions. By partnering directly with card networks, freely Payments is breaking down the longstanding barriers of card payment acceptance, making it easier and more economically viable.

A Game-Changer for Wholesale Food Distributors

Traditionally, food distributors have been wary of accepting card payments due to the high processing fees that can erode their profit margins. freely Payments, with its cutting-edge technology, has flipped this paradigm. “Our proprietary technology eliminates the burden of traditional processing fees, preserving the margins of vendors while empowering restaurants with the working capital they

need,” explains Ahmed Nawash, CEO of freely Payments. This innovative approach enhances cash flow management for restaurants and streamlines the entire payment process, making it a win-win for all stakeholders involved.

Strategic Leadership Driving Forward

The success of freely Payments can be largely attributed to its founders’ robust leadership and deep industry expertise. Ahmed, with a decade of experience in corporate development and fintech partnerships, alongside Brandon O’Connor, co-founder and COO, an expert in business banking and product strategy, brings a wealth of knowledge and a clear vision for the future of payment processing. “We are not just facilitating transactions; we are redefining them to create tangible benefits for our clients,” states Brandon.

Innovative Features Setting

New

Standards

freely Payments offers a suite of features specifically designed for the F&B sector. The

freely acceptance™ program allows vendors to accept credit card payments without cost and cashback incentives on every transaction. This is further enhanced by their intelligent routing system, ensuring each transaction is processed at the lowest possible cost.

The upcoming launch of freely pay™ in Q4 of 2024 promises to further revolutionize the industry. This co-branded credit card program includes zero processing fees and allows vendors to earn cash back on purchases made by their customers, both within and outside their establishments. “With freely pay, we are shifting the payment paradigm in favor of our clients, providing them with tools that offer early-pay discounts and interest-free payment terms,” highlights Ahmed.

Automated Solutions for Modern Challenges

One of the standout features of freely Payments is its automated reconciliation process. The platform effectively ends the tedious back-

and-forth often associated with invoice discrepancies. Through intelligent collections and automated systems, freely Payments reduces debt and streamlines operations, making it easier for businesses to focus on growth rather than financial administration.

Community and Client-Centric Approaches

At its core, freely Payments is deeply committed to the communities and industries it serves. The platform is tailored to meet the specific needs of food vendors and their customers, ensuring that each feature adds value and enhances the user experience. The customizable rewards program through freely pay™ is a testament to this commitment, designed to spur card usage and maximize benefits for both vendors and their customers.

Looking Towards a Bright Future

As freely Payments continues to grow and expand its services, the impact of its innovations is becoming increasingly apparent

across Milwaukee and beyond. The company addresses the immediate financial challenges faced by the food and beverage industry and sets new benchmarks for what is possible in the world of financial transactions.

“Innovation is at the heart of what we do. We’re not just changing how payments are processed; we’re setting new standards for the industry,” concludes Brandon. With such a powerful vision and ongoing technological advancements, freely Payments is not just participating in the market but leading it, promising a more efficient, flexible, and financially sound future for the food and beverage industry.

Ahmed Nawash Founder & CEO of freely Payments

CHAPTER FIVE

PREVIEWIMAGE REGIONAL ENABLER

Igniting Innovation in the Heart of America

Innovation, entrepreneurship, and community are brewing a different kind of revolution in the nation’s capital. DC Startup Week (DCSW) showcases the dynamic synergy of startups, resources, and a diverse community that defines the entrepreneurial spirit of the Washington, D.C., Maryland, and Virginia (DMV) region.

Empowering

Innovation: The Three Pillars of DC Startup Week

At its core, DC Startup Week is more than an event; it’s a dynamic community of entrepreneurs, startups, and an ecosystem of support that includes legal, financial, and technological resources. Born from the vision of fostering a collaborative space for growth and learning, it celebrates the startup culture with a week-long conference held each Fall. Over five days, the city transforms into a hub of networking, education, and inspiration, drawing participants from across the globe.

DCSW is a monumental event in the entrepreneurial landscape, grounded in three transformative pillars: celebration, education, and community connections, each infused with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Rachel Koretsky, Co-Chair and Director of DCSW, emphasizes the vibrancy of the startup ecosystem: “Celebrating the startup ecosystem

and bringing everyone together during its five-day conference, having opportunities where people can network.” This pillar is the foundation of the annual Fall event, now in its eighth year, and creates a dynamic space for entrepreneurs to connect, from informal ‘happy hours’ to structured networking sessions.

The commitment to education is profound. DCSW offers over 150 sessions yearly, with over 300 local and global speakers covering critical startup stages from ideation to acquisition, emphasizing early-stage founders, growth strategies, and emerging technologies. These sessions cover everything a startup needs, from inception to acquisition, focusing on earlystage founders, growth strategies, emerging technologies like Web3 and AI, social impact, and sustainability, among other critical areas. This pillar ensures attendees have access to cutting-edge knowledge and expertise, vital for navigating the complexities of startup growth and innovation.

The third pillar of DCSW is the essence of community and the importance of connections, underscoring the event’s ethos. Rachel notes: “We focus on bringing together great people throughout the DCSW event and how we can connect founders to what they need to grow and scale.” This pillar is about more than just networking; it’s about building lasting relationships that support the lifecycle of a startup.

“We focus on bringing together great people throughout the DCSW event and how we can connect founders to what they need to grow and scale.”

Inclusion at the Core Underpinning these pillars is DCSW’s profound commitment to diversity and inclusion. This commitment is not just a statement but a visible practice, with the event priding itself on being a melting pot of ideas, cultures, and expertise.

The organizers emphasize that expertise and excellence know no gender or color, making the event a true representation of the demographic diversity of the DMV region. This inclusivity fosters a unique environment where investors, innovators, and entrepreneurs from various backgrounds and disciplines converge, making it a fertile ground for groundbreaking ideas and partnerships.

Seema Alexander, Co-Chair and Head of Growth and Co-Lead of Emerging Tech Track, articulates this commitment: “The DMV is a very inclusive community at the core; it truly is a melting pot of cultures, and DCSW is representative of our demographic and showcasing experts.” This focus ensures the event mirrors the diversity of the DMV region, fostering an environment where innovation thrives on the richness of varied perspectives. This commitment not only enriches the event but also positions it as a unique and inclusive platform in the entrepreneurship world.

Global Vision and Local Impact

Beyond the immediate benefits to attendees, DCSW has a broader vision of establishing the DMV as a global innovation hub. By showcasing the rich tapestry of innovation happening in the area, from biotech marvels in Maryland to tech giants and startups in Virginia and DC, the event is a critical player in redefining the region’s identity on the world stage.

Seema shares this ambition: “Our ultimate goal is to help build the DMV into a globally renowned innovation hub with impact and creativity. The 2023 conference hosted participants from 17 countries and states across the US, not just our region. We’re attracting investors from far and wide, too.” The event’s evolution into a nexus for investors and innovators alike marks a significant step toward redefining the region’s identity beyond its political legacy.

A Welcoming Community

A distinctive feature of DC Startup Week is its universally welcoming nature, a testament to the organizers’ inclusive vision. The Co-Chairs’ personal journeys intertwine with DCSW, offering a glimpse into their passion and dedication. Rachel reflects on her experience of joining DCSW and its transformative powers: “As a young female founder in tech, my goal was to forge connections and immerse myself in a community, something

DRAFT

I found lacking in my journey. This drive led me to seek opportunities to meet others and establish meaningful relationships. Through this process, I discovered the invaluable role of community in entrepreneurship. It became a cornerstone for navigating the challenges and growth inherent to the entrepreneurial journey. The support, resources, and candid conversations I found within this community, particularly at DC Startup Week, have been instrumental in my success at UPACE. It transformed the often solitary path of entrepreneurship into a shared journey with over 15,000 fellow entrepreneurs, reinforcing my belief in the power of community to foster growth and success.”

Seema’s return to the DMV area after years away highlights the transformative power of DC Startup Week in connecting entrepreneurs and fostering a sense of belonging. Seema shares: “Returning to the DMV after 17 years felt alienating, especially since my professional circle was deeply entwined with government and politics, far from the entrepreneurial spirit I cherished. My passion lies in nurturing businesses and embracing innovation, especially emerging technologies. The buzz around Amazon’s HQ2 and the region’s growing reputation in biotech and tech sectors caught my attention.

My involvement with DC Startup Week began when I was invited to speak. There, I found my tribe. Collaborating with Rachel and Corey, we amplified our event’s impact, attracting investors and entrepreneurs alike. My journey reflects the vulnerability and challenges of entrepreneurship, from financial strains to self-doubt. Yet, the success stories that emerged from our community, like entrepreneurs finding partners and startups flourishing, underscore the profound impact of our work. These narratives are at the heart of our mission, showcasing the vibrant support system we’ve cultivated within the DMV’s entrepreneurial landscape.”

This openness ensures that regardless of one’s stage in the entrepreneurial journey, there is a place for them at DC Startup Week. The organizers highlight how the event serves as a catalyst for growth, providing entrepreneurs with a platform to meet, learn from, and collaborate with one another. Success stories of partnerships formed and businesses launched during the event are testaments to the event’s impact on individual entrepreneurs and the broader startup ecosystem.

The Road Ahead: Evolving and Expanding

Looking to the future, DCSW envisions becoming more than just an event. It aims to evolve into a festival-like celebration of innovation, with demonstrations, career fairs, and more, attracting talent and investors from across the world. This ambition reflects a broader vision of fostering a vibrant, supportive, and inclusive community that propels entrepreneurs to new heights.

A Legacy of Innovation

The DCSW aims to expand and extend its support for entrepreneurs in the region. Rachel reflects: “Our grand vision is to truly showcase the DC region as the incredible place we know it to be for launching and expanding startups. This is a hub for entrepreneurs of all kinds, and we aim to shine a spotlight on this through DC Startup Week, celebrating the diversity and vibrancy of our local startup ecosystem.”

DC Startup Week’s story is a compelling narrative of the power of community, diversity, and innovation. It encapsulates the spirit of the American dream, where innovation, hard work, and a supportive community can turn visions into reality. DC Startup Week stands as a beacon of hope and a catalyst for change in the DMV and beyond, promising a future where innovation, inclusion, and community thrive together.

INNOVATING ARLINGTON

A Beacon of Entrepreneurial Ingenuity

In a rapidly evolving commercial landscape, Arlington emerges as a shining example of innovation and opportunity. As businesses grapple with shifting dynamics and challenges, Arlington stands as a beacon of confidence and growth. Let us delve into the elements that make Arlington a premier destination for business expansion, while highlighting the innovative initiatives driving its success.

Proximity and Partnerships

Strategically nestled adjacent to the nation’s capital, Arlington’s location catalyzes collaboration and networking opportunities. Beyond geographical convenience, it fosters interactions with federal agencies and global headquarters, unlocking doors for partnerships and innovation. Arlington offers unparalleled access to influential networks, propelling businesses towards growth and success in unique ways.

Talent and Diversity

At the heart of every successful venture lies a skilled and diverse workforce, and Arlington delivers precisely that. Drawing from esteemed institutions like George Mason University and Virginia Tech, Arlington boasts a pool of professionals brimming with expertise and innovation. As innovation campuses expand, the talent pool deepens, providing businesses with the human capital necessary to thrive in today’s competitive landscape.

Vibrant Ecosystems

Arlington’s business districts are more than mere collections of office buildings; they are vibrant ecosystems pulsating with creativity and opportunity. From Rosslyn’s iconic skyline to Ballston’s lively boulevards, each district offers a unique blend of commercial spaces, retail establishments, and cultural attractions. These dynamic environments foster collaboration, innovation and entrepreneurship, propelling businesses towards new heights.

Seamless Connectivity

In an interconnected world, seamless connectivity is paramount for business success. With easy access to major highways, airports, and public transportation networks, Arlington offers unparalleled connectivity to regional and global markets. A robust transit system, including Metro and bike-sharing programs, enhances commuting and sustainability efforts, positioning Arlington as a forward-thinking business hub.

Quality of Life

Beyond its business prowess, Arlington offers a high quality of life enriching the professional experience. Diverse neighborhoods, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreational spaces provide residents and employees with a well-balanced lifestyle. From leisurely strolls along the Potomac River to world-class dining experiences, Arlington’s quality of life enhances satisfaction and retention, contributing to overall business success.

Diverse Real Estate Options

Arlington’s commercial real estate landscape is as diverse as its business districts, offering a myriad of options to suit varying commercial needs. Whether it is a sleek high-rise in National Landing or a historic warehouse in Clarendon, businesses have the flexibility to choose the perfect location. This diversity ensures companies find ideal spaces to thrive and grow, further solidifying Arlington’s reputation as a premier business destination.

Innovative Initiatives

Arlington’s commitment to innovation is evident through not only the stand-out elements listed previously, but also various initiatives aimed at fostering entrepreneurial growth and success. The Arlington Innovation Fund accelerates the growth of local startups by providing early-stage capital and reducing risk. Additionally, partnerships with organizations like Citrine Angels aim to boost female-led entrepreneurship and investment, tackling unique challenges facing entrepreneurs today.

Moreover, programs like Unstuck Tuesdays provide a platform for entrepreneurs to seek advice, pitch ideas, and find mentors, while initiatives like the Entrepreneur in Residence program at George Mason University facilitate collaboration between startups, federal agencies and investors.

Furthermore, Arlington’s Commercial Market Resiliency Initiative (CMRI) removes regulatory barriers, allowing for flexibility and innovation in repositioning office spaces. This initiative aims to stabilize the office market, create value and enrich the urban experience.

Digital Innovation

Arlington’s commitment to digital innovation is exemplified by its recognition as the No. 1 Digital County for 2023 (Center for Digital Government and the National Association of Counties). This prestigious award underscores Arlington’s dedication to technology-driven solutions, exceptional customer service, strategic planning and collaboration. Through innovation, Arlington continues to lead the way in leveraging technology for the greater good, ensuring world-class services and programs for its residents and businesses alike.

In conclusion, Arlington embodies the essence of opportunity and innovation in the D.C. metropolitan area. With its strategic location, top-tier talent pool, vibrant business districts, exceptional connectivity, high quality of life, diverse real estate options and innovative initiatives, Arlington stands as a beacon for businesses and entrepreneurs seeking growth and success. Arlington is not just a destination; it is a catalyst for expansion and prosperity across the board.

GOVT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

GOVT OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA

NORTHERN VIRGINIA TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

Driving Innovation and Connection in the Tech Capital

“We are committed to accelerating innovation to solve real-world challenges, growing our economy, and creating meaningful employment opportunities for a diverse and inclusive workforce.”

The Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) is a catalyst for innovation, collaboration, and growth in the National Capital Region. For over three decades, NVTC has played a pivotal role in shaping the technological landscape of Northern Virginia, fostering a vibrant community where technology thrives. As Jennifer Taylor, President and CEO of NVTC, eloquently puts it, “Our mission is clear: to accelerate tech innovation in the National Capital Region, driving economic growth and positioning our community as a global tech leader.”

Today, NVTC celebrates over three decades of technology evolution and service to the Northern Virginian community and its more than 500 member organizations, including Fortune 100 commercial tech companies, government contractors, service providers, and academic institutions.

Founded in 1991 by a Fairfax Chamber of Commerce committee, NVTC quickly became an indispensable advocate for the tech industry,

tackling critical tax and regulatory barriers like the BPOL Tax. Throughout the 1990s, NVTC expanded to represent the entire technology sector in the region. Under former CEO Bobbie Kilberg’s leadership, NVTC launched impactful initiatives, from signature events on cybersecurity and AI to the Veterans Employment Initiative and modernizing Arlington National Cemetery’s recordkeeping system, driving consistent positive change.

Connecting Talent

and

Opportunity

One of NVTC’s unique strengths is its ability to connect technology employers with educators, ensuring a steady pipeline of skilled talent. With 12 college and university presidents serving on its board of directors, NVTC bridges the gap between education and employment. “The success of our future technology community is

Innovation at the Core Innovation is the lifeblood of NVTC. Under Jennifer Taylor’s leadership, the organization has implemented the ‘Reset and Modernization Plan,’ enhancing member-centricity and deploying digital solutions across all functions. This proactive approach has enabled NVTC to thrive in a digital-first environment, effectively scaling member outreach efforts. NVTC’s commitment to innovation is reflected in its impressive Net Promoter Score of 57 and its implementing of a modern CRM system that has significantly improved the digital member experience. “Innovation means generating and implementing new ideas and solutions that create sustainable value by addressing unmet needs or enhancing existing methods,” Jennifer says. Additionally, NVTC’s high-performing culture, known as the ‘NVTC Way,’ prioritizes staff and member satisfaction, ensuring continuous improvement and engagement.

now dependent upon - and will be driven bythe next generation of talent. We must invest in the next generation and provide them with the tools and resources to access in-demand jobs to help this region thrive,” Jennifer emphasizes.

The region’s higher education institutions, including George Mason University and Northern Virginia Community College, have significantly invested in talent development. Further, the Virginia Tech Innovation Campus, which broke ground in 2021, is poised to be a major incubator for startups and talent. Through programs like NVTC’s Aim High and the Kilberg Scholarship Fund, NVTC empowers engineering talent and underrepresented populations to pursue careers in technology, ensuring diversity and inclusion within the workforce.

environments for the tech industry, such as successfully advocating for removing a proposed digital goods tax from Virginia’s biennial budget in 2024. “We believe that proactive advocacy is crucial to creating an environment where technology companies can thrive,” Jennifer states. These initiatives underscore NVTC’s forward-thinking stance in leveraging technology, fostering a vibrant community, and advocating for the Northern Virginia technology sector, solidifying its position as a leader in innovation, industry advocacy, and member satisfaction.

Impacting People and Businesses

NVTC celebrates industry achievements through prestigious events like the Cyber Summit, Impact AI, Tech100, CFO Awards, and Intern Networking Reception, enriching member experiences with cutting-edge knowledgesharing and networking opportunities.

NVTC’s effective communication strategies have boosted its email open rate to 45%, keeping members engaged and informed. The organization also produces premier technology summits like the NVTC Cyber Summit, Impact AI, and Tech100, demonstrating its commitment to enriching member experiences through cutting-edge knowledge sharing and networking opportunities. Strategic planning is a key focus, with a comprehensive five-year strategic plan and transparent goal tracking fostering impactful decision-making. NVTC’s clear mission and vision are supported by four key pillars: accelerating tech innovation, infusing the next generation of talent, embedding DE&I best practices, and anticipating and modernizing.

Policy advocacy is another cornerstone of NVTC’s innovation strategy. The organization has led initiatives to shape favorable legislative

dynamic culture of innovation and technological advancement is unwavering.

The Future of NVTC: A Bright Horizon As NVTC looks to the future, the organization is poised to continue empowering and inspiring its members to achieve new heights. With a comprehensive five-year strategic plan, NVTC is well-positioned to foster a vibrant and collaborative technology community. The organization’s ability to connect, educate, and advocate for the tech community ensures that Northern Virginia will remain a global leader in technology and innovation, especially in the areas of AI operations, cybersecurity, cloud computing, digital engineering, zero-trust, 5G, aerospace, and quantum computing.

The NVTC Foundation further extends NVTC’s impact by addressing the region’s skills gap and increasing access to in-demand jobs for underrepresented populations. Programs like Aim High provide high school students with career exploration experiences, while the Kilberg Scholarship Fund supports women pursuing tech degrees, fostering future female leaders.

NVTC’s efforts have a significant economic impact, with Virginia consistently ranked among the top states for business, tech talent, and innovation. In 2024, Virginia was named the #1 state for tech talent pipeline and cybersecurity jobs by Business Facilities Magazine. The state also holds the titles of the world’s #1 Data Center Capital and #1 Best Digital Economic Outlook by Tipalti in 2023. Recognized as an Innovation Champion by the 2023 U.S. Innovation Scorecard, Virginia’s commitment to fostering a

Through NVTC’s unwavering commitment to its mission and core values, this organization continues to drive economic growth, foster talent, and shape the future of technology in the National Capital Region. Jennifer concludes: “It’s the power of our ability to connect and collaborate that will ensure our region’s tech community will remain accessible for all, vital, and vibrant for decades to come. We are committed to accelerating innovation to solve real-world challenges, growing our economy, and creating meaningful employment opportunities for a diverse and inclusive workforce.”

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NORTHERN VIRGINIA TECHNOLOGY COUNCIL

Why Join Northern Virginia Technology Council: The Gateway to Growth

The Northern Virginia Technology Council (NVTC) is the gateway to unparalleled opportunities for companies and professionals. With its mission to connect, educate, advocate, and celebrate, NVTC offers a unique value proposition that extends far beyond a typical membership. As Jennifer Taylor, President and CEO of NVTC, puts it, “Joining NVTC means becoming part of a community shaping the future of technology in one of the nation’s leading tech hubs.”

The NVTC Value Proposition

At its core, NVTC is about growth – growing your company, your network, and our tech community. With over 450 member companies and 14,000 engaged professionals, NVTC opens doors to countless opportunities. Membership grants access to world-class events, memberonly gatherings, and opportunities to recruit top talent through college career fairs and apprenticeship programs. NVTC also plays a pivotal role in branding the region as a leading tech hub, ensuring Northern Virginia remains a competitive destination for employers, researchers, investors, entrepreneurs, and job seekers.

NVTC’s impact is underscored by its awardwinning programs and advocacy efforts.

Recognized by the Technology Councils of North America (TECNA) for its innovative member services and public policy advocacy, NVTC

continues to shape the future of technology. In 2022, NVTC received the TECNA Innovative Member & Client Services Award for its creative programming and the Public Policy Advocacy Award for its efforts to support economic and workforce growth through tax incentives.

Building Priceless Connections

One of the most compelling reasons to join NVTC is the opportunity to make priceless connections. As Carolyn Parent, President and

CEO of Conveyer, shares, “NVTC’s Impact AI Summit brought together trusted voices around innovations, risk management, policy creation, practical use cases, and industry implications in an emerging tech sector that every business leader seeks to understand. NVTC leads the way and remains a trusted source for real-time insights in an emerging market that is changing at the speed of light.” These connections are invaluable for individual growth and the collective advancement of the region’s tech industry.

NVTC’s events are renowned for their ability to bring together a diverse array of professionals, fostering relationships that drive innovation and collaboration. Matthew Weintraub, AVP Government Contractor and Middle Market Banking at Sandy Spring Bank, attests to this, saying, “NVTC is the leading organization for the region’s tech companies. They provide some of the most diverse and valuable networking opportunities, and their thought leadership programs are second to none. As a young professional, I greatly value NVTC’s focus on building relationships and their championing of next-generation leaders by hosting intern events and offering membership to college students.”

A Strategic Partner for Growth

NVTC’s commitment to infusing the next generation of technology talent into the National Capital Region aligns seamlessly with the goals of many of its members. James Jones Miller, CEO and Regional Dean of Northeastern University-Arlington, reflects on this strategic alignment: “NVTC was on our wish list of partners from day one because of its commitment to infusing the next generation of technology talent into the National Capital Region. This strategic priority directly aligns with our mission to prepare learners for leadership in job roles of the future where innovation, technology, and security intersect.”

“Joining NVTC means becoming part of a community shaping the future of technology in one of the nation’s leading tech hubs.”

For companies looking to showcase their brand, NVTC offers sponsorship opportunities that enhance visibility and engagement within the tech community. Members can also influence legislation, ensuring the region remains a thriving hub for innovation. Through its strategic planning and advocacy efforts, NVTC drives economic growth and fosters a dynamic culture of innovation and technological advancement.

Growing Northern Virginia Together

Joining NVTC means becoming part of a vibrant community dedicated to shaping the future of technology. With its comprehensive value proposition, award-winning programs, and commitment to innovation, NVTC offers an unparalleled platform for companies and professionals to thrive. As the gateway to growth in Northern Virginia’s tech ecosystem, NVTC invites you to join the journey and be part of the region’s success story.

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A Legacy of Innovation

“The Summit is where solutions to our nation’s most pressing problems are birthed.”

The Wharton Club of D.C., grounded in the rich legacy of the Wharton School’s distinguished alumni, has grown into a pivotal ecosystem of innovation and enterprise. Established in 1968, the Club has curated a potent alchemy of leaders from pre-eminent businesses, universities and organizations, private, and public. It continues to call for ceaseless learning, growth, and the dynamic exchange of ideas.

Their driving force? Lifelong learning and a passion for sharing innovative and actionable ideas with the potential to improve lives.

A Decade of the Wharton D.C. Innovation Summit

2024 marks a monumental moment for this community: the 10th anniversary of the Wharton D.C. Innovation Summit. Over the

years, this annual gathering has established itself as a mecca for those at the forefront of technological advancements.

Entrepreneurs, investors, non-profit leaders, executives, government officials and innovatorsthey all come together, driven by a shared vision.

A vision echoed by one of our keynote speakers, Aneesh Chopra, the first White House Chief Technology Officer, who confirms, “The Summit is where solutions to our nation’s most pressing problems are birthed.”

The man behind this grand vision? Alan Schlaifer, the long-serving President of the Wharton Club of D.C. “It was our vision, in 2014 to create an annual conference open to the public to galvanize innovation and entrepreneurship not just in the DMV (D.C.,

Maryland, and Virginia) - but also on a national and international level,” shares Alan of the Innovation Summit’s inception a decade ago.

Through strategic partnerships with other top alumni clubs and organizations, plus a dedicated team of many volunteers, including stalwarts like Ruwan Salgado, Chuck Schilke, and Ali Qureshi – the original Program Chair, the Summit has consistently outdone itself, year after year.

Where Ideas Meet Opportunity

From its inaugural event in April 2015, the Summit introduced a unique format that intertwined insightful panel discussions with diverse speakers and varied topics with valuable networking opportunities. The tradition of hosting an Embassy reception set against the backdrop of historic landmarks like the British Embassy and Twin Oaks Mansion, further added to its distinctive charm and benefits to attendees, speakers and sponsors.

With themes that evolve to remain timely every year, Summit tracks focus on disruptive technologies (such as AI, 5G) and advances in

sectors such as healthcare and sustainability/energy. The ever-present funding track and pitch sessions are clear favorites, offering startups a golden chance to catch the eye of potential investors.

The Summit’s cross-disciplinary approach may unleash what past keynote David Morey – who has advised Steve Jobs and other successful innovators - calls “astounding synergistic power.” Morey says that’s what this approach has yielded for top inventors from Leonardo da Vinci and Benjamin Franklin to the present.

And the speakers? Nothing short of stellar. From “Fathers of the Internet” Vint Cerf and Bob Kahn to renowned leaders like Gary Shapiro (CEO, Consumer Tech. Assn.), Dr. Cori Lathan (entrepreneur; author, Inventing the Future), David Trone (Owner, Total Wine & More), Seth Goldman (Founder, Honest Tea); David Rose (a top angel investor), Reggie Aggarwal (CEO, Cvent), Susan Penfield (Chief Innovation Officer, Booz Allen) and Marla Beck (CEO & Founder, Bluemercury) the Summit boasts a speaker lineup that’s a testament to its stature.

Beyond Just An Event: A Movement

“What makes the Wharton D.C. Innovation Summit truly stand out is its inclusive approach,” affirms Ruwan Salgado, the Summit’s longest-serving Program Chair. “Whether you’re an established entrepreneur, a budding startup enthusiast, an investor, or just someone intrigued by the world of innovation, the Summit rolls out the red carpet for all. With past Summits hosting thousands of attendees from 400+ companies, the sheer diversity

and breadth of its reach are awe-inspiring.”

2024 and Beyond

As the Summit prepares to celebrate a milestone anniversary, the gaze is firmly set beyond the horizons of 2024. The goal? To expand its reach and impact, and provide access to even larger global audiences. In 2024 and beyond, the leadership team is considering using a full hybrid conference setting and deferred content streaming to ensure the Summit’s rich insights are accessible to anyone, anywhere.

The Wharton Club of D.C. and its flagship Innovation Summit aren’t just events on a calendar. They are a movement, a call to action, an invitation for innovators, leaders, and visionaries to come together and create a brighter future. As we stand on the cusp of a new era, the Summit reminds us that the best way to predict and improve the future is to invent it. Your place in this odyssey of inspiration, innovation, and transformation isn’t just welcomed – it’s needed.

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Alan N. Schlaifer – Chairman, Annual Wharton DC Innovation Summit; President, DC Wharton Club; Principal, Law Offices of Alan N. Schlaifer

Ruwan Salgado – Program Chair, Wharton DC Innovation Summit, Principal, Strat8gy International, LLC

Inspiring the Best to Serve

Our country’s most pressing challenges - from climate change and national security to healthcare and education - demand a renewed partnership across the private and public sectors to connect our greatest national asset: our talent. The NobleReach Foundation inspires, develops, and supports mission-driven entrepreneurship to tackle our society’s biggest challenges through public service. It combines the agility of the private sector, the ideas of research and academia, and the scale of the public sector to drive innovation and inspire and nurture the next generation of mission-driven entrepreneurs.

Headquartered in Tysons, Virginia, NobleReach was established in July 2022 following the acquisition and rebranding of LMI. The organization further deepened its mission in November 2022 by merging forces with IQT Emerge. Since 2020, the nonprofit organization Emerge has been working to connect the US government innovation pipeline with entrepreneurship to support technology development for the national interest.

A Unique Approach to National Challenges

NobleReach creates a sustainable pathway for top technical, scientific, and entrepreneurial talent to work on mission-critical projects. The foundation’s initiatives, such as the NobleReach Fellows, NobleReach Interns, NobleReach Emerge, NobleReach Scholars, and Embedded Entrepreneur programs, are designed to provide hands-on experience and mentorship to early-career professionals.

“NobleReach inspires the brightest minds in America to make a difference,” emphasizes Arun Gupta, CEO of NobleReach, who is also a lecturer at Stanford and Georgetown Universities and author of the national bestseller,

‘Venture Meets Mission.’ “We believe in the power of innovation and public service. Our programs are designed to expose young professionals to mission-oriented work and help them design solutions to some of the most complex problems facing our nation.”

At the heart of NobleReach’s mission is the belief that collaboration between the private sector, academia, and government is essential to address the nation’s most pressing challenges. This triad forms the backbone of a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem, where each sector plays a crucial role in research, development, commercialization, and real-world application.

“Innovation is about people,” Arun shares. “Innovation’s true power lies not in technology alone but in the people who harness and apply it. By fostering collaboration, we create an environment where innovators can thrive, turning abstract ideas into tangible solutions that address societal needs. It’s the entrepreneurs, researchers, policymakers, and business leaders working in concert that transform promising technologies from shelf-bound curiosities into scalable, impactful innovations that will shape our future.”

Building a Community of Experts

NobleReach is committed to convening and cultivating a community of experts who will drive innovation and thought leadership to advance US national and economic security interests. “We are building a community of exceptional talent across the nation,” Arun says. “Our partnerships with academic institutions and industry leaders are crucial to fostering innovation and excellence in public service.”

The foundation’s partnerships with over 50 universities and government research organizations like the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) and the National Science Foundation (NSF) catalyze groundbreaking research and innovations in various fields, including cybersecurity, AI, biotechnology, life sciences, aerospace, materials science, wireless communications, and semiconductors.

Arun asserts: “Our mission is to bring the entrepreneurial spirit of the private sector into the government, not necessarily for their entire careers, but as part of a selfreinforcing ecosystem of public and private talent working in partnership. We start with students at the university level, working with them through their careers in and out of government through an ecosystem of support and community. By creating that connective tissue between the public and private sectors, we are modernizing the current talent infrastructure to ensure we remain globally competitive.”

NobleReach’s Impact

In its two short years as NobleReach Foundation, its grown into a dynamic team of over 50 dedicated professionals, launched the inaugural internship and NobleReach Scholars programs, and partnered with more than 50 universities to develop curricula and convenings that foster innovation and excellence in public service, placing mission-driven tech talent in critical government agencies and departments such as the Space Force, the Navy, the Treasury, CISA, NOAA, and HUD, and helped commercialize over 90 ventures to raise $1.3B in funding.

“We are particularly excited about NobleReach’s Scholars program, where individuals can gain professional experience, essential skills, unique mentorship, and connections to drive meaningful change in tech, science, and entrepreneurship through public service,” Arun shares. “We’re deepening our partnerships with academic institutions and strengthening collaborations with industry leaders who recognize the critical need for innovation and public-serving endeavors. This growth allows us to reach more talented individuals and create a wider ripple effect of positive change.”

A Future Full of Promise

As NobleReach grows, the foundation remains focused on its mission to inspire and mobilize America’s best and brightest minds. By fostering collaboration, providing strategic consulting, and building a community of experts, NobleReach is poised to drive innovation and address the nation’s most pressing challenges.

“We are excited about the future of NobleReach,” Gupta says. “Our work is just beginning, and we are committed to making a lasting impact on our nation’s security and prosperity.”

NobleReach Foundation’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and public service. With a vision of collaboration and a commitment to national service, NobleReach inspires the next generation of mission-driven changemakers to make a difference.

Arun concludes: “NobleReach undertakes this work to secure our nation’s future, but we would not be successful without our community and partners who share these values and are committed to developing talent and technologies in a sustainable, scalable way for the good of our nation.”

“NobleReach

inspires the brightest minds in America to make a difference.”

Pioneering Innovation in the Heart of Maryland

The Maryland Tech Council (MTC) stands at the crossroads of technology and life sciences, fostering a dynamic ecosystem where innovation thrives and transforms lives. “At the Maryland Tech Council, we believe in saving lives, securing our nation, and improving the quality of life through innovation,” says Kelly Schulz, CEO of the Maryland Tech Council. This commitment to driving innovation is not just a mission statement but a daily pursuit that propels Maryland toward becoming the number one innovation economy for life sciences and technology in the country.

A Legacy of Advocacy and Growth

Founded in the late 1980s, the Maryland Tech Council has grown from a small group of tech professionals into the state’s largest technology and life sciences trade association, boasting over 800 members. “Our role is to set the table for our member companies to innovate,” explains Kelly. MTC has consistently provided a platform for connection, education, and advocacy, helping member organizations navigate the complexities of their industries and fostering an environment where innovation thrives.

One of the critical components of MTC’s success is its robust advocacy efforts. By engaging with policymakers at both the state and national levels, MTC ensures that the voices of its members are heard and their interests represented. This commitment to advocacy is complemented by various networking opportunities, with MTC hosting over 75 events annually. These events range from large-scale conferences to intimate networking sessions, providing members invaluable opportunities to connect, learn, and grow.

Empowering Innovation Through Education and Mentorship

Education and mentorship are at the core of MTC’s offerings. “There is no substitute for offering high-quality networking opportunities,” the organization’s CEO emphasizes. MTC’s educational programming, taught by industry leaders, covers key topics and provides members with the knowledge they need to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape. Additionally, based on MIT’s internationally recognized framework, MTC’s Venture Mentoring Services (VMS) program offers experienced executive mentors to startups in the life science and technology industries. This program has been instrumental in helping startups overcome challenges, with VMS-mentored ventures raising $154.8 million in capital and grants to date.

Groundbreaking Initiatives for a Thriving Ecosystem

MTC continually evolves to meet the needs of its members and the broader innovation ecosystem. A recent addition to MTC’s offerings is the BioHub Maryland, a first-of-its-kind workforce development program designed to upskill Marylanders for high-paying careers in the biopharma manufacturing industry. “Developing a strong pipeline of skilled talent is critical to retaining and growing our life sciences ecosystem in Maryland,” says Kelly. BioHub Maryland focuses on equipping individuals, particularly those without college degrees, with the skills they need to succeed in biopharma manufacturing, thereby contributing to the growth and sustainability of the industry.

Empowered Purchasing

MTCEdge is a cost-savings program that gives members competitive discounts on lab and office supplies, perks, and employee rewards.

“MTCEdge offers our members more savings on more categories than ever before,” Kelly notes. This program helps member companies reduce operational costs and enhances employee satisfaction by offering discounts on lodging, health and wellness, learning, and car rentals.

Fostering a Culture of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion

MTC is deeply committed to promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within the tech and life sciences industries. “The focus on DEI supports the growth and success of the industry and strengthens the overall economy of Maryland,” Kelly explains. By fostering an inclusive environment, MTC ensures that all voices are heard and that the innovation ecosystem benefits from diverse perspectives and ideas.

“We believe in saving lives, securing our nation, and improving the quality of life through innovation.”

Looking Ahead: A Bright Future for Maryland’s Innovation Economy

As MTC looks to the future, the organization remains steadfast in its commitment to driving innovation and supporting its members. “I can’t overstate the importance of being engaged,” Kelly says. The impact of MTC’s efforts is evident in the thriving tech and life sciences communities across Maryland, which are continually pushing the boundaries of what is possible.

MTC’s vision for the future is ambitious yet grounded in the belief that by working together, the tech and life sciences industries can achieve remarkable things. Through its unwavering support for workforce, innovation, advocacy, education, and DEI, the Maryland Tech Council is not just shaping the future of Maryland’s innovation economy but setting a standard for others to follow.

Final Thoughts from the CEO

Kelly offers a powerful reminder of MTC’s core mission: “Our member companies save lives and make the world safer because of innovation.” This ethos drives every initiative, every program, and every effort undertaken by the Maryland Tech Council. As the organization continues to grow and evolve, it remains a vital force in the journey toward a brighter, more innovative future for Maryland and beyond.

BioHub Maryland Training and Education Center at Montgomery County

ON THE RISE

Making Maryland the Biomanufacturing Global Leader

“BioHub Maryland’s new training partnership will help ensure that more Marylanders can gain the skills they need to pursue rewarding biopharma manufacturing careers.”

- Wes Moore, Governor of Maryland

WORKFORCE INNOVATION STARTS WITH BIOHUB MARYLAND

BioHub Maryland, a workforce initiative of the Maryland Tech Council, is set to bridge gaps in the state’s life sciences ecosystem and propel biomanufacturing in the National Capital Region.

BioHub Maryland Training and Education Center at Montgomery County is a state-of-the-art, multifunctional life sciences training facility, which will be the exclusive provider of the world-renown curriculum from the National Institute of Bioprocessing Research and Training (NIBRT), a global leader in biopharmaceutical manufacturing training and research. This training will equip Veterans, disadvantaged community members, and others with the skills and knowledge to enter the life sciences field, while also upskilling the current workforce to excel further in the sector.

At BioHub Maryland, our programs are customizable to meet the specific needs of industry partners. We offer flexibility in scheduling, content delivery, and program duration to ensure alignment with the unique requirements of each business. Our approach emphasizes practical, hands-on experience utilizing industry-standard equipment, providing participants with valuable insights directly applicable to real-world operations. Whether individuals are entering the field or seeking to enhance their existing skills, BioHub Maryland is committed to strengthening the workforce and contributing to Maryland’s position as a global leader in biomanufacturing within the United States.

1863 VENTURES

Unleashing Potential

“We’re

excited about the continued progress on our path to creating

In the heart of innovation, where dreams intertwine with reality, 1836 Ventures stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. Born from a modest volunteer project at Georgetown, it has evolved into an international business platform, redefining the essence of entrepreneurship for the New Majority.

At its core, 1863 Ventures is a Black-led national business development nonprofit accelerator and venture capital fund for New Majority entrepreneurs, who have been historically underestimated, including Black and Latino men and women. It supports over 4,000 entrepreneurs across the USA, leveraging capital investments, culturally competent content, and corporate and philanthropic partnerships to scale businesses from high potential to high growth through rigorous leadership training and strategic market access.

“Our thesis is that entrepreneurship is becoming an increasingly viable pathway for the New Majority to build wealth. Our goal is to facilitate this trend by reducing barriers and risks for these founders across the nation,” shares Melissa Bradley, Founder of 1863 Ventures.

1863 Ventures embodies the spirit of responsible entrepreneurship. Its platform delivers an unparalleled blend of content and connections, fostering a supportive ecosystem transcending traditional narratives.

From its inception in 2018, the journey from a volunteer initiative to a global powerhouse encapsulates a testament to vision, perseverance, and

Innovating for Success

Innovation at 1863 Ventures transcends the conventional. It is the alchemy of turning lessons learned into new pathways for success. This philosophy has cemented its status as the trusted source and leading business knowledge, tools, and support provider. By empowering New Majority businesses to scale and catalyzing $100B in new wealth by 2030, 1863 Ventures redefines innovation with every step.

Through its programs, which focus on building scalable brands, participants receive free, non-dilutive instruction from industry experts on various topics framed around crucial best practices, systems, and processes for success. After instruction, participants apply what they learned in real-time to their businesses. After each program, they receive further one-on-one support from the 1863 team and Brain Trust to refine their strategies and implementation.

Programs include the Founder to CEO, Pipeline, and Acceler8. “Core to our programs is improving operational efficiency, reducing execution risk, and catalyzing growth through our rigorously developed, process-based curriculum,” says Melissa. “Whether you’re at the growth stage and are preparing to scale

founders for investors and challenge the negative narratives surrounding New Majority entrepreneurs. Their efforts not only elevate individual businesses but also enrich the broader ecosystem, proving that diversity is strength.

1836 Ventures’ participants have generated over $300M in revenue and raised over $5M in capital. Behind each set of numbers is a compelling New Majority story of accomplishment despite intense adversity.

Melissa elucidates: “Our objective is to improve the state of innovation & entrepreneurship for both New Majority founders and ecosystem builders alike. Whether you’re a corporate brand, non-profit, venture capitalist, or something in between, we have a variety of pre-packaged and custom services that can be rapidly deployed nationwide.”

existing systems and operations, or if you’re pre-growth and looking to establish those long overdue processes in the first place, we’ve got you.”

Trust was the catalyst that transformed 1863 Ventures. It came from the very community it aimed to uplift. This trust, coupled with a manifesto that pledges impact over accolades, propelled the organization to unprecedented growth and created sustainable impact.

Looking ahead, 1863 Ventures envisions a future marked by continued progress and achievement. The ambitious goal of creating $100B is a testament to their dedication and optimism. Melissa emphasizes: “We’re excited about the continued progress on our path to creating $100B in new wealth by 2030.” This vision is not just about financial milestones but about uplifting communities, changing lives, and shaping a more inclusive and equitable entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Catalyzing the Ecosystem

1863 Ventures’ contribution to the innovation ecosystem is multifaceted. By partnering with local and national entities, providing training, and leading research initiatives, they de-risk

1863 Ventures is a powerful reminder of the economic imperative to support entrepreneurship across all communities. By highlighting the potential of businesses owned by people of color and the untapped economic benefits they represent, 1863 Ventures challenges us to reconsider our perspectives on entrepreneurship. It’s not just a business issue; it’s a societal opportunity to foster equality, diversity, and prosperity.

Through its innovative approach, dedication to the New Majority, and unwavering belief in the power of entrepreneurship, 1863 Ventures stands at the forefront of societal transformation. Let’s embrace the challenge to innovate, uplift, and unite for a brighter, more inclusive future.

2GETHER-INTERNATIONAL Innovation Through

Inclusion

Innovation, as a term, is vague. It can conjure up a variety of thoughts. One of those would probably not have been that innovation means inclusivity. 2Gether-International (2GI) emerges as a revolutionary force, challenging conventional narratives in the entrepreneurial space. Founded by Diego Mariscal, a proud advocate for the Disabled Community, 2GI is more than a startup accelerator – it’s a crusade to redefine disability as a source of strength and innovation in business.

“2Gether-International is redefining how people think about disability,” Diego declares. “We often talk about diversity and inclusion, yet disability is often left out of that conversation, and the irony is the disability community is the largest minority in the world with 1 billion people, and that anyone can become disabled at any point in time.” Alarmingly, the unemployment rate among disabled people is as high as 80% in some countries. And that’s why 2GI exists.

The Catalyst of Change

A disabled person born with cerebral palsy, Diego’s entrepreneurial journey began in Monterrey, Mexico, where he founded a disability education program for his fellow local students. This initiative, known as Limitless Prepa Tec, spread across Mexico, reaching more than 3,000 students – and it continues to be the largest youth-led disability education program in that country. He moved to the U.S. in 2011 to study international relations at American University in Washington, D.C. In 2012, he established 2GI after his experiences propelled him to envision a platform where disability is not a barrier but a unique advantage in life. 2GI is now a 501c3 nonprofit and the leading startup accelerator run by and for entrepreneurs with disabilities.

Diego’s global advocacy includes collaborations with multinational organizations such as the U.S. Department of State, the Organization of American States, the Inter-American Development Bank, and companies like Comcast NBCUniversal, Google, Blackboard, and McKinsey, reflecting his dedication to empowering disabled entrepreneurs. He has also met with President Clinton and President

Biden to discuss disability and entrepreneurship challenges. This past March, he was a panelist at the Clinton Global Initiative at Vanderbilt University moderated by Hillary Clinton.

When asked about the vision of 2GI, he shares: “Being proud of one’s disabilities and celebrating them.” 2GI’s mission is to spotlight the innovation and resilience inherent in the disabled community.

Disability as a Synonym for Innovation

2GI stands at the forefront of a movement that views disability as an essential and advantageous element in the entrepreneurial world. The organization connects disabled founders with critical resources, nurturing high-growth, highimpact startups, particularly technology startups. This approach not only provides practical support but also challenges societal perceptions, flipping the narrative around disability.

Innovations like keyboards, electric toothbrushes, voice-recognition apps, sensor-based doors, smartphone touchscreens, audiobooks, and more originated from the needs of the disabled

community. “Disability is synonymous with innovation,” Diego notes, underscoring how serving the disabled community leads to more innovative and inclusive products. “The more we can think about serving the disability community, the more innovative and inclusive our products can be.”

Building an Inclusive Entrepreneurial Community

Since 2019, 2GI’s Founder Cohorts have equipped entrepreneurs with tools and guidance, strengthening their pitches and connecting them with a network of funders. This program builds a community among disabled entrepreneurs, fostering peer support and shared growth. Since the launch of 2GI’s first Cohort four years ago, more than 70 startups have participated, and these businesses have collectively raised approximately $54 million dollars in funding from investment, revenue and acquisitions from outside investors.

Diego and his team also actively collaborate with various partners and sponsors, creating lasting change and expanding services to connect with

more entrepreneurs globally. These partnerships are crucial in maintaining and growing 2GI’s programs and influence. For instance, 2GI’s most recent Cohort for Disabled Entrepeneurs, which ran from October – December 2023, was made possible by Comcast NBCUniversal. At the conclusion of the 10-week program, the entrepreneurs had an opportunity to pitch their startups to earn $10,000 in seed funding.

As an incubator and accelerator, 2GI is dedicated to creating an entrepreneurial community where disabled founders receive peer support, expert mentorship, and access to a broad network of opportunities. By bringing together industry veterans and emerging leaders, 2GI fosters an ecosystem that accommodates and celebrates the strengths of people with disabilities.

The Ongoing Revolution

The organization’s influence extends beyond the startup world. As a leader in the accelerator space for founders with disabilities, 2GI has

become a go-to source for innovation and best practices. Diego’s roles on various boards, including the Securities and Exchange Commission’s Small Business Capital Formation Committee, DC Innovation Inclusion Council, and the Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD), underscore 2GI’s commitment to fostering an inclusive innovation ecosystem in Washington, D.C., and beyond.

“Disability is synonymous with innovation.”

2Gether International is more than an accelerator; it’s a testament to the transformative power of inclusive innovation. Diego’s personal and professional triumph inspires a new generation of entrepreneurs. In a world where disability is often seen as a limitation, 2GI stands as a bold statement that disability can indeed be a powerful driver of creativity, resilience, and business success.

CONNECTpreneur Fueling Innovation in the Heart of Washington D.C.

In Washington, D.C., the entrepreneurial spirit isn’t just alive; it’s thriving, thanks to CONNECTpreneur. This isn’t your typical forum - it’s the heartbeat of business innovation. Boasting a global network of over 30,000 trailblazers - from CEOs to investors, and angels to entrepreneursCONNECTpreneur is where ideas ignite and ambitions soar. Welcome to the core of innovation, woven seamlessly into the city’s relentless pursuit of greatness.

A Melting Pot of Ideas

Founded in 2012, CONNECTpreneur has rapidly evolved from an ambitious idea into a pivotal platform that nurtures the growth of innovative businesses. “At CONNECTpreneur, we celebrate innovation by facilitating highlevel connections and engagement among the brightest minds in the industry,” says Skylar Rallison, CONNECTpreneur Community Manager, capturing the essence of this dynamic organization.

Every month, over 400 top founders, investors, angels, CXOs, VCs, and early-stage ecosystem players converge at the CONNECTpreneur Forum. This gathering is no ordinary event; it’s a blend of newsmaking speakers, a showcase of emerging tech companies, and unparalleled networking opportunities. With previous speakers like Steve Case, Governor Terry McAuliffe, Reggie Aggarwal, Seth Goldman, David Gardner, David Trone, Joe Payne, Chip Paucek, Tim Chi, David Steinberg, Mark Walsh, Tim Hwang, Rick Rudman, and Sudhar Kesavan, among others, gracing the stage, CONNECTpreneur forums are a testament to the quality and impact of these gatherings.

Innovation at the Forefront

The CONNECTpreneur RocketPitch is hailed as the world’s largest monthly investor pitch event, attracting between 600 to 800 top founders, investors, and business leaders. “These unique events are like none other due to the high quality of our attendees and

“We are not just about networking; we are about creating opportunities for growth and innovation.”

participants, as well as our programming and unprecedented networking,” Skylar emphasizes, highlighting the distinctive nature of CONNECTpreneur’s engagements.

Over 70% of attendees surveyed rank CONNECTpreneur as the number one tech networking event in the Mid-Atlantic region. This is a testament to the organization’s ability to foster meaningful connections that propel businesses forward. “We are not just about networking; we are about creating opportunities for growth and innovation,” Skylar states, underscoring the organization’s mission.

Global Impact

Beyond the local ecosystem, CONNECTpreneur hosts the world’s largest monthly virtual tech pitch events. These events attract 350-600 attendees online, showcasing CONNECTpreneur’s expansive reach and influence. “Our goal is to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and the capital that

can bring them to life,” Skylar adds, highlighting the global vision of CONNECTpreneur.

A Community of Support

CONNECTpreneur’s impact extends beyond events and networking. The team provides capital-raising mentorship and support to hundreds of entrepreneurs, investors, and VC funds worldwide. “We are committed to supporting entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey, ensuring they have the resources and guidance needed to succeed,” Skylar affirms.

CONNECTpreneur’s success is also attributed to its strong partnerships with leading organizations and institutions. Partners include Capital One, BDO, Bank of America, and Georgetown University, among others. These collaborations enrich the ecosystem, providing broader opportunities for innovation and growth.

A Beacon of Innovation

CONNECTpreneur stands as a beacon of innovation in Washington, D.C., inspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders to dream big and innovate. “Our story is not just about what we have achieved; it’s about the countless businesses we’ve helped launch, grow, and succeed. This drives us forward,” Skylar reflects, looking towards the future with optimism.

The company fosters a legacy of inspiration and impact that will echo through future generations of entrepreneurs. “Our journey is far from over,” Skylar reflects with unwavering optimism. “We’re just getting started.” Welcome to CONNECTpreneur, where the future of innovation is unleashed.

Connectpreneur linkedin.com/company/11034979 connectpreneur.org

History of the DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD)

The DC Department of Small and Local Business Development (DSLBD) has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth and success of small businesses in Washington, DC. Established with a mission to support and empower local entrepreneurs, DSLBD has evolved into a cornerstone of the city’s economic development strategy.

Early Beginnings

DSLBD was formed to address the need for a dedicated agency that would focus on the unique challenges faced by small and local businesses in the District of Columbia. Recognizing these enterprises’ critical role in job creation, community development, and economic diversity, the city government sought to create an entity that could provide tailored support, resources, and advocacy.

Growth and Expansion

Over the years, DSLBD has expanded its scope and services to meet the changing needs of the business community. From its initial focus on providing essential business support and training, the department has grown to include a wide array of programs to foster innovation, sustainability, and inclusive growth.

One of the key milestones in DSLBD’s history was establishing the Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) program. This program was designed to ensure local businesses have access to city contracting opportunities, helping them grow and compete effectively. The CBE program has become a cornerstone of the department’s efforts to promote economic equity and local participation in government procurement.

Key Features and Programs

DSLBD offers a variety of programs and initiatives that cater to different aspects of business development:

1. Certified Business Enterprise (CBE) Program: This program certifies businesses as eligible for preference in DC government contracting opportunities. It aims to increase the participation of local businesses in city contracts and ensure that a significant portion of city spending benefits the local economy.

2. Business Opportunities DSLBD provides one-on-one counseling, workshops, and training sessions on a wide range of topics, from business planning and marketing to financing and compliance. These resources are designed to help entrepreneurs at every stage of their business journey.

3. Innovation & Equitable Development: The division fosters innovation through various programs, including business incubators and accelerators, that provide mentorship, access to capital, and networking opportunities for startups and high-growth businesses.

4. APEX Accelerator: In line with the city’s commitment to sustainability, DSLBD offers programs that help businesses adopt environmentally friendly practices. These initiatives not only contribute to a greener city but also help businesses reduce costs and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

5. Commercial Revitalization: DSLBD supports the vibrancy of DC’s neighborhoods by helping local retailers and community businesses. Programs like the DC Main Street Program provide grants for storefront improvements and support neighborhood revitalization projects to enhance the appeal and competitiveness of local retail districts.

Looking Forward

As the economic landscape continues to evolve, DSLBD remains committed to adapting its services to meet the needs of DC’s diverse business community. With a focus on inclusivity, innovation, and sustainability, the department is poised to continue playing a vital role in shaping the future of Washington, DC’s economy.

DSLBD’s work is not just about supporting businesses—it’s about building a thriving, resilient, and inclusive community where all entrepreneurs have the opportunity to succeed. The department’s ongoing efforts to empower local businesses underscore its vital role in the economic and social fabric of the District of Columbia.

Elevating Washington DC as a Global Tech Hub

Founded by a group of passionate innovators, entrepreneurs, and executives, the DC Tech and Venture Coalition (DCTAV) aims to revolutionize the tech and innovation landscape of Washington, D.C. Kevin Morgan, the Founder and Executive Director, shares its mission: “We aim to establish Washington, D.C., as the epicenter of the world’s most influential tech and innovation ecosystem by driving transformative growth and fostering innovative companies at all stages that aim to make a significant impact in the world. We create competitive business advantages for tech and innovation companies in D.C. and the greater DMV area.”

From Humble Beginnings to a Powerful Innovation Movement

The journey of DCTAV began with a simple yet powerful idea: to bring together the tech community of DC through monthly happy hours. “Our founding members are not just innovators; they are deeply committed to the tech and innovation community,” Kevin shares. “Over several years, one of our founding members engaged in hundreds of conversations with tech and innovation founders, executives, and companies in DC & the DMV, consistently identifying the same challenges and opportunities. After years of talk, in June 2022 twelve executives at our roundtable decided to take action and started a monthly happy hour. From this humble beginning, we have become an organization that promotes and champions the tech and innovation space in DC & the region.”

DCTAV aims to create a platform that elevates the great work innovators do around the region. Their goal is to bust down silos and unite fragmented ecosystems. By avoiding duplication of efforts, they focus on elevating others’ great work to help them achieve and scale. “Our goal is to be the connective tissue across several ecosystems across the region, elevating the great work people, groups, and organizations do in the innovation ecosystem space,” Kevin says.

Innovation, for DCTAV, is about turning possibilities into reality. The coalition operates on a principle of action over deliberation. “We err on the side of taking action. We pilot, test, and implement quickly. Whatever works, we double down on it. Whatever doesn’t, we either iterate and improve or jettison and move on. We’re not afraid to fail; we’re afraid not to try at all,” Kevin asserts. This pragmatic approach has allowed DCTAV to remain agile and responsive to the evolving needs of the tech community.

Driving Transformative Growth

DCTAV’s mission is ambitious yet clear: to make DC the best city in the world for tech innovation and startups. The coalition is dedicated to promoting DC tech and innovation companies locally, nationally, and globally. It aims to establish DC as the hub of a vibrant tech innovation and new venture community. This mission is supported by impressive metrics, with DCTAV members collectively boasting a $10 billion valuation, $1.75 billion in total capital raised, and 6,500 employees. The coalition’s success is reflected in its goals to triple the number of tech unicorns, quadruple the amount of capital raised, and quintuple the number of successful exits.

Fostering a Supportive Environment

One of the critical tipping points for DCTAV was a shift in leadership style that emphasized empowering individuals. Kevin reflects on this personal and organizational transformation: “A personal tipping point came when I realized I needed help and got out of my own way. This shift made me focus less on hyper-controlling outcomes and more on allowing great people to do great things. As a leader, I focused my role on removing barriers and roadblocks preventing them from being the capable people they are.”

To be sure, DCTAV is – and always will be – a collective effort. Without the support and contributions of people like Steven Simoni, Ashtan Moore, Michell Urben, Katie McKenzie, Naviya Kothari, Kevin Lee, Austin Sandler, Brendan Whitaker, Dan Kwon, Ann Marie Guzzi, Alitha Doh, Joseph Nicynski, Steve Ryan, Alex Wirth, Borzou Azabdaftari, Lisa Throckmorton, Killian Lennon, Jeighdeane King, Erica Klinger, Day Martin, Benjamin Ross, Matt Caywood, Areo Nazari, Stefan Nagey, Kimberly Moore, Venture X (Adams Morgan), Chelsea Kirkland, DC Public Library and countless others, DCTAV would not be what it is today.

The collective tipping point for DCTAV came when they stopped holding strategy and planning meetings about what they wanted to do. Instead, they required meetings only after receiving feedback from pilot projects or tested ideas. This shift allowed them to act on real data and focus on what truly worked.

A Darwinian Approach to Innovation

DCTAV’s approach to innovation is almost Darwinian in its execution. The coalition tests and tries new ideas, adopting those that add a competitive advantage and discarding those that do not. “We don’t have to predict the future or identify the right or wrong innovations. Instead, we have a process and framework in place that allows us to test and innovate,” Kevin asserts.

The future for DCTAV isn’t set in stone, and there is no clear destination. However, they have developed methods for testing new ideas to find solutions that work. “Our approach to innovation is almost Darwinian –we test and try things, and new ideas that add competitive advantage are the ones that get incorporated. The ones that don’t die off are the ones that we focus on and continue with,” Kevin states.

This methodical yet flexible approach ensures DCTAV remains at the forefront of tech innovation.

Nurturing Talent and Building Networks

One of the key pillars of DCTAV’s strategy is to support businesses in the local talent pipeline. By building executive community networks and helping companies close new deals, DCTAV ensures that the tech industry in DC continues to thrive. “We help members raise capital and invest in new projects. We also support businesses in the local talent pipeline build executive community networks, and close new deals,” Kevin explains.

A Brighter Tomorrow

Kevin’s message to the tech community is simple yet powerful: “Stop talking, start doing!” This mantra encapsulates the spirit of DCTAV – a coalition that is not just about ideas but about making those ideas a reality. With a relentless focus on action, collaboration, and innovation, DCTAV is set to transform Washington, D.C., into a leading technology and innovation capital.

“We create a competitive advantage for tech and innovation companies in D.C. and the greater DMV area.”

Kevin Morgan in the audience of DCTAV’s DC Tech Studio Angels + Demos Event

Left: Crowd engagement at DC Tech Studio’s Angels and Demo Event. Right: Naviya Kothari (District Angels Lead) takes the stage.

Our Founder-Developer Speed Dating event, hosted with ThinkNimble, brought engineers and founders together to pair technologists with founders building products.

Founder Kay Rodriguez pitches her platform, Outerly, to the audience at DC Tech Studio’s Angels + Demos event.

Kevin Morgan pictured with attendees of DC Tech Meet’s ReLaunch

With nearly 50,000 job openings in Fairfax County alone, FCEDA is bridging the gap between talent and industry through collaboration with the K-12 school system and more than 100 universities, of which 40 are HBCUs, and organizations supporting transitioning military, veterans, and military spouses. This strategy not only supports the workforce but also fosters a resilient economic ecosystem conducive to long-term growth. Through its talent programs and an online digital talent hub, FCEDA has supported the workforce needs of more than 17,000 businesses across the region, illustrating a steadfast commitment to building a sustainable talent pipeline.

Expanding Opportunities to Maximize Growth

Igniting Innovation and Growth in Fairfax County

Fairfax County is not just a hub for innovation; it’s a powerhouse supported by the Fairfax County Economic Development Authority (FCEDA). Chartered by the Commonwealth of Virginia and governed by a board of county business leaders, FCEDA is dedicated to transforming Fairfax County into one of the world’s premier business locations. Funded by the county government, the authority plays a pivotal role in supporting business growth and expanding the commercial tax base, which in turn funds high-quality public services for the county’s growing and diverse population of nearly 1.2 million.

Inventing the Workforce of the Future Innovation isn’t just a buzzword for FCEDA; it’s a practical investment in the region’s future. Victor Hoskins, President and CEO of FCEDA, emphasizes the importance of building the talent pipeline to support

innovation and business growth: “With the rapidly evolving technologies from AI to quantum computing, there will be ripple effects across industries and the jobs that we are preparing our workforce for today may look very different in the not-so-distant future.”

Victor stresses the critical role of integrating talent development with economic development. In his own words: “In Fairfax County, the school systems from K-12 to higher education institutions along with businesses and government agencies are coming together to respond to the talent needs of the future. Together, we have begun the work to invent the workforce of tomorrow.” This proactive approach to nurturing talent is evident in his strategic efforts to align educational opportunities such as internships directly with the job market’s demands, ensuring a seamless transition from education to employment.

FCEDA’s operational framework is designed to support businesses across various stages and sectors. With three dedicated business investment divisions - National, International, and Business Diversity and Entrepreneurship - FCEDA tailors its free and confidential services to meet diverse business needs, supporting companies from Fortune 500s to rising startups. FCEDA team members meet businesses where they are on their growth journey and offer site selection and facility services, provide valuable market and industry intelligence, support talent attraction efforts, and brainstorm top-tier media and public relations opportunities to enhance visibility and brand recognition. This comprehensive support framework ensures businesses have every competitive advantage when they land and grow in Fairfax County.

Building Momentum for a Purpose-Driven Future

Under Victor’s leadership, the formation of the Northern Virginia Economic Development Alliance (NOVA EDA) marks a significant milestone. This alliance promotes collaboration across nine Northern Virginia jurisdictions, enhancing the growth of the regional economy with heightened competitiveness. If Northern Virginia were a country, its economy valued at more than $275 billion would be the 48th largest in the world. Victor notes, “We market together, share information, and attend industry conferences as a unified entity,” which magnifies Northern Virginia’s appeal to innovative companies and skilled professionals.

Looking to the future, FCEDA remains committed to innovation in sectors like AI and aerospace technology. “We create an environment where the talent to support these transformative industries can grow,” Hoskins explains. This vision is supported by the FCEDA’s multifaceted talent programming launched in 2020, aimed at attracting, retaining, retraining, and growing the workforce essential for business success in Fairfax County.

FCEDA is more than an economic development authority; it is a cornerstone of regional prosperity and innovation. By fostering a business environment that supports growth from multiple perspectives - through strategic business services, robust talent programming, and partnerships that bridge workforce and industry - FCEDA ensures that Fairfax County is not merely a place for business success but also a platform for global impact. “We are in the business of making companies successful because when they succeed, the community thrives,” Victor concludes, capturing the essence of FCEDA’s mission to enhance both the economy and the quality of life in Fairfax County. FCEDA is setting a benchmark for economic development worldwide through this purpose-driven approach.

“We are in the business of making companies successful because when they succeed, the community thrives.”

HALCYON HOUSE A Haven for Big Risks and Bold Ideas

Halcyon, a non-profit incubator for early-stage start-ups, stands as a lighthouse of innovation. It is a unique and impactful organization dedicated to fostering the growth and development of impact-driven businesses. Halcyon accelerates the future of business by focusing on ventures that integrate a social mission into their core that also represent a significant opportunity to promote equity and inclusivity in the workplace and society.

Halcyon was founded by visionary entrepreneurs Dr. Sachiko Kuno and Kate Goodall. Dr. Kuno, known for her success in biotech, acquired the historic Georgetown property in 2011, aiming to inspire entrepreneurs. They envisioned a sanctuary for globally impactful entrepreneurs. Their extensive research and planning led to Halcyon’s establishment in 2014, focusing on profit and purpose. In 2017, it became an independent nonprofit, symbolizing its commitment to nurturing impact-driven businesses.

A New Business Ethos: Impact at the Core

Dan Barker, the President and CEO of Halcyon, articulates their ethos: “We hold the belief that embedding social and environmental impacts at the heart of a business operation presents a distinct competitive advantage.” Halcyon focuses on three key verticals: Health, Climate, and EquityTech. This philosophy was once challenging to convey but is now increasingly embraced globally. It is central to Halcyon’s approach to supporting businesses, and it emphasizes its strategy of investing in founders at very early stages, acknowledging that as these businesses grow, they contribute positively to wider communities.

Dan and his team believe that the future of capitalism lies in companies that are committed to doing good in the world. Halcyon’s application process is rigorous, drawing in hundreds of applicants in each cycle, from

which the most impactful ventures are chosen. These entrepreneurs are selected based on their potential to develop lasting and sustainable impact.

“We have the unique opportunity to work with companies right from their inception, focusing on social and environmental impact. Unlike other ventures, they don’t need to retrofit these values into their existing models; it’s already at the heart of their business, along with the drive to be profitable and scalable,” Dan explains. Halcyon’s role is to provide these founders with the necessary resources, whether it’s financial investment, mentorship, or connections to vital services like pro bono legal advice or consulting. It aims to ensure these founders have everything they need for their businesses to flourish. This support extends beyond mere business development; it includes personal support and guidance, acknowledging the profoundly personal nature of these entrepreneurial endeavors.

“What sets us apart is our focus on the founders themselves,” Dan elucidates. “Beyond just business needs, we concentrate on their development as leaders committed to their mission. This involves connecting them with leadership coaches and resources to help build a strong organizational culture.”

Halcyon’s approach has proven effective, as seen in the successes of ventures like Phil’s Finest and Solstice. These companies not only pivoted their business models to meet market needs better but also created products and services that are environmentally conscious and socially beneficial.

Through its innovative model and support system, Halcyon demonstrates the viability and potential of impact-driven businesses, proving that integrating social and environmental considerations into the business model is not only possible but also a path to success in the modern business world.

Halcyon’s impact is not just significant; it’s transformative. Picture this: over 500 fellows nurtured, 360 groundbreaking ventures supported, and an astonishing 9.2 million lives positively affected by these ventures. This is about more than numbers; it’s about real-world change. These ventures have generated over 6,000 jobs and amassed an impressive $500 million in funding.

Cultivating Leaders for a Better World

Dan also emphasizes the importance of supporting underserved entrepreneurs, particularly women and people of color. He argues that these individuals, often closest to the challenges, are likely to devise the most effective solutions. Countering the narrative of a ‘pipeline problem’ in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, he asserts, “There are plenty of incredible women starting businesses. There’s plenty of incredible people of color running these businesses.” He calls for a shift in the venture capital and broader funding community to recognize and invest in these founders, not out of charity, but for the innovative solutions they bring to the table.

Diversity is at the core of its success, with 75% of these ventures led by women or non-binary individuals and 78% by founders of color. Take Wasoko, for example. This venture, led by software developer Daniel Yu, is redefining access to goods and services in Africa. Through a mobile ordering and delivery service, Wasoko empowers small retailers, enhancing convenience and cost-effectiveness in product accessibility. Their remarkable achievement? An annual revenue of $48 million and a groundbreaking $125 million in Series B funding, setting a new record for non-fintech startups in Africa.

This is the power of purpose-driven business: making substantial impacts, creating opportunities, and redefining industries, one venture at a time.

Driving Innovation with Imagination Innovation at Halcyon goes beyond tech and

“What sets us apart is our focus on the founders themselves.”

buzzwords. The Halcyon Fund is a pioneering venture capital initiative with a focus on impact-driven startups. Starting with an initial $5 million, the fund reflects Halcyon’s proactive approach to addressing market gaps, especially for the founders it supports.

Emphasizing the need for action in capital allocation, Dan urges: “We need capital allocators to change their behavior.” This statement highlights Halcyon’s commitment to not just supporting but actively shaping a new era of impact-driven entrepreneurship.

What are examples of this mindset shift required? Halcyon has innovatively established an angels network, attracting investors who are keen on impact-driven ventures. In addition, they have developed a microloan fund designed to offer flexible financial support up to $25,000. This fund is unique in that it requires neither credit nor collateral checks, providing very favorable terms for the founders. By the time these entrepreneurs are eligible for this fund, Halcyon has already mitigated much of the risk through its comprehensive program.

The Future: Scaling Global Impact

As Halcyon House nears its tenth anniversary, it looks towards an ambitious future, aiming to deepen and expand the organization’s transformative work on a global scale.

This expansion is set to include more intensive engagement in Halcyon’s key focus areas, notably in sectors where they have already made significant strides: Health, Climate, and EquityTech. By leveraging their experience and successes, Halcyon plans to replicate

and adapt their model to suit different global contexts. Dan sees this as an opportunity to catalyze a global movement of impact-driven entrepreneurship, where businesses are not just profitable but inherently designed to address the most pressing challenges of our times.

Integral to this vision is the fostering of a global community of innovators, entrepreneurs, and investors who share Halcyon’s commitment to impactful business. Dan imagines a network that spans continents, where ideas, resources, and best practices are exchanged fluidly, creating a rich ecosystem that supports sustainable and scalable solutions to global issues.

Halcyon is a testament to the transformative power of businesses that align profit with purpose, driving positive change in society and the environment.

Intention 2 Impact (I2I) is a dynamic social change organization at the forefront of impact measurement. Founded in October 2018 by the visionary Nina Sabarre, I2I is a minority, women-owned small business known for disrupting the status quo in philanthropy through innovative and equity-centered monitoring, evaluation, research, and learning (MERL) and strategy consulting.

The Birth of a Vision

Reflecting on the early days of I2I, Nina vividly recalls, “I started Intention 2 Impact in October 2018. was working as a freelance researcher and evaluator, but I knew that the way impact was being measured just wasn’t cutting it. To innovate and contribute to more equitable approaches to measurement, I wanted to build something bigger than myself that could eventually influence the field.” With this conviction, she transitioned from a solo freelancer to the leader of a thriving consulting firm with more than a dozen consultants across the country.

Measuring Solutions for Complex Challenges

I2I is renowned for its multifaceted approach to impact measurement, embracing quantitative and qualitative methods that center storytelling and actionable learning. From social enterprises and foundations to donor collaboratives and impact investors, I2I uses data to ensure impact is effective, relevant, equitable, and sustainable.

“We help foundations and social enterprises rethink how they measure impact,” Nina explains. One standout example of I2I’s work is with a coalition of housing advocates in California. Partnering with advocates, I2I is helping to identify and measure indicators to shift mainstream narratives about safe and affordable housing for all. I2I’s work utilizes communications data, the development of shared metrics, and building narrative capacity to influence culture change.

Full-Service Research, Evaluation, Strategy

At the core of I2I’s offerings is the firm’s full-service research, evaluation, and strategy support for purpose driven organizations. They are generalists who work across diverse sectors, issue areas, and geographies; however, the throughline of their practice is meeting clients where they are to measure and communicate impact using data. “We believe evaluation is not about measuring what’s good or bad, and rather about illuminating possibilities and helping communities decide what is most valuable for them,” Kathleen Doll, Partner and COO emphasizes.

One of the firm’s hallmark services is designing and implementing 360° MERL Frameworks™ to help organizations set up systems for

Innovating Social Impact Measurement

comprehensive monitoring, strategic evaluation, purposeful research, and continuous learning.

“We design tailored MERL frameworks to turn data into actionable insights that can be shared and used across every department in an organization,” Blake Beckmann, Senior Evaluation Consultant explains. This holistic approach ensures organizations can make informed decisions that drive sustainable, long-term impact.

Building Capacity for Sustainable Change

Beyond research and evaluation, I2I is deeply invested in capacity building. Through interactive webinars, trainings, and customized workshops, they equip organizations with the skills and confidence needed to collect and utilize data effectively. “We recognize organizations have different data needs and there is no one-size-fits-all approach,” Nina urges, underscoring the importance of adaptive impact measurement.

I2I works with philanthropic foundations of all shapes and sizes – ranging from global funders like Open Society Foundations and the WK Kellogg Foundation; place-based organizations like the The California Endowment or Colorado Health Foundation; and newer foundations or donor collaboratives like the Elevate Prize Foundation and the Audacious Project.

Innovation at the Heart of Impact

I2I is guided by core values that reflect team members’ dedication to a more just and equitable society. These are intention, interdependence, introspection, innovation, integrity, intelligence, ingenuity, and impact. Nina jokes that in addition to “being suckers for alliteration,” these values drive everything they do – from their business decisions, to team culture, and work with clients.

Innovation at I2I is not just about employing cutting-edge methodologies; it’s about challenging the status quo and embracing a collaborative, bottom-up approach to problem solving. They are pushing boundaries when it comes to evaluation for impact investing portfolios and innovative social finance mechanisms.

Redefining Evaluation: From Accountability to Learning

One of the most transformative aspects of I2I’s work is its effort to redefine the role of evaluation. Historically, foundations have used evaluation to hold grantees accountable for their use of funds. Sahiti Bhaskara, Senior Evaluation Consultant, challenges this traditional view: “We are helping rewrite the narrative to use measurement and evaluation for learning and inspiring collective action.”

They see themselves as champions in the shift towards trust-based philanthropy, redefining power dynamics to center communities rather than funder priorities. Even when it means tough conversations, I2I pushes funders to think about how they can use data to understand their role in systems and drive transformation.

“We help foundations and grant-making organizations innovate in the ways they measure impact.”

The Power of Measurement

Nina leaves us with a powerful message for all social innovators: “For all social innovators out there, you can’t maximize your impact without defining and measuring it.”

I2I firmly believes in the potential of data to generate and amplify community knowledge. Because knowledge yields power, I2I recognizes their role in reallocating power to those most impacted by unequal systems. With its unwavering commitment to innovation, equity, and impact, Intention 2 Impact is working hand-in-hand with changemakers to transform the world through data.

Catalysts for Community Change

For over four decades, the Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC) has been a transformative force in the Washington, D.C., area, empowering underinvested communities and fostering innovative solutions to complex urban challenges. As Executive Director Ramon Jacobson eloquently puts it: “Our mission is to help people uncover and shape opportunities for them to better their neighborhoods for themselves and their families.”

Rooted in Community

LISC’s journey began in the late 1970s with support from major foundations like the Ford Foundation. Since opening its D.C. office in 1982, LISC has been dedicated to leveraging local knowledge and resources to drive community development. “Our first name is local,” emphasizes Ramon. “We’ve always endeavored to have this rooted local advisory board, raising local dollars and working with local philanthropies, corporations, and investors.”

This deep local engagement matches national resources, allowing LISC to offer significant financial and strategic support. With 37 offices across the country and various national programs, LISC’s impact is both broad and profound. In Washington, D.C., alone, LISC has invested $589 million to create or preserve nearly 16,000 affordable housing units and 3.7 million square feet of commercial and community space.

“We work with nonprofit organizations, residents, and community leaders to bring neighborhood ideas to life,” says Ramon. By investing in these local entities, LISC helps build the capacity needed to drive systemic change and create thriving communities.

LISC supports a wide range of projects, from small business development to creative placemaking. For instance, the organization’s efforts to promote arts and culture have significantly impacted communities like Historic Anacostia, now designated as Washington, D.C.’s Arts and Culture District.

“Creative placemaking is about using arts and culture to celebrate and preserve community identity, foster collaboration, and envision a new future,” explains Ramon.

Innovative Solutions for Complex Challenges

LISC’s commitment to innovation is evident in its forward-thinking approach to community development. By treating affordable housing as a testing ground for new ideas, LISC is pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in urban revitalization. Ramon explains: “Affordable housing is becoming a testing ground for many of these innovative ideas.” Projects like the net-zero affordable housing initiatives demonstrate LISC’s dedication to environmental sustainability, ensuring that these homes not only provide shelter but also contribute to a healthier planet. Innovations in green building practices, such as incorporating solar power and battery storage, are transforming the way affordable housing is constructed and maintained, setting new standards for energy efficiency and sustainability.

A recent project in The Residences at Kenilworth Park exemplifies this approach. The new assisted living facility, designed to serve elderly African-American residents, combines state-of-the-art environmental sustainability with community-focused services. “This is probably the nicest and newest place any of the residents have ever lived in,” he notes. “It’s welcoming, embracing, and light-filled, with on-site services and a beautiful natural setting.”

Beyond housing, LISC’s innovative spirit extends to economic development and community empowerment. During the COVID-19 pandemic, LISC’s Rapid Relief and Recovery Fund exemplified its ability to adapt quickly to emerging needs.

By providing grants and flexible loans to women- and BIPOC-owned small businesses and community-based organizations, LISC helped stabilize the most vulnerable sectors of the community. This adaptive approach ensures that LISC can respond to crises with agility, supporting local economies and fostering resilience. Whether through creative placemaking initiatives or support for small businesses, LISC’s innovative strategies are building stronger, more vibrant communities across Washington, D.C., and beyond.

A Vision for the Future

As LISC looks to the future, the organization remains committed to its core values of flexibility, adaptability, and innovation. “There’s an adaptability, curiosity, and a sense of purpose and mission that continues to embrace new ideas,” Ramon observes. This forward-thinking approach ensures that LISC remains at the forefront of community development, ready to tackle new challenges and seize emerging opportunities.

LISC’s work is driven by a profound sense of purpose and a desire to make a lasting impact. Jacobson reflects on the organization’s enduring mission: “We’re still committed to doing this work, even after 42 years, in Washington D.C. and the surrounding region.” This unwavering commitment to community empowerment and innovation makes LISC a true catalyst for change.

Join the Movement

LISC’s success is built on collaboration and partnership. Whether you are a small business looking to expand, an artist seeking to engage with your community, a mission-driven investor, or a nonprofit leader eager to collaborate, LISC invites you to join the movement. “Let’s shape the future of D.C. neighborhoods and our region together,” Ramon urges.

In a city known for its political influence and historical significance, LISC stands out as a beacon of hope and progress. By harnessing the power of local initiatives and innovative solutions, LISC is helping to build a more equitable and vibrant future for all residents of Washington, D.C., and beyond.

“Let’s shape the future of D.C. neighborhoods and our region together.”

LISC Staff alongside the 2023 Oramenta Newsome Community Development Fellows on a tour of the Reunion Square development in Anacostia.

LISC DC Executive Director, Ramon Jacobson, alongside other financing partners at the groundbreaking ceremony for Cycle House – a green, deeply affordable mixed-use housing development in Ward 5. LISC

CHANGEMAKERS WELCOME

The Penn West Equity and Innovation District (Penn West) is transforming the landscape of innovation and equity in the world’s capital. This unique collaboration between the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District (BID), the District of Columbia, and The George Washington University (GW) is building an inclusive, collaborative innovation hub in the heart of downtown Washington, D.C.

The Heart of Innovation

Strategically located adjacent to the White House, Penn West boasts unparalleled access to national and global decision-makers. The Golden Triangle is home to prestigious universities, tech institutions, and international development organizations, including the World Bank, the International Monetary Fund (IMF), the International Finance Corporation (IFC), and the Delegation of the European Union to the United States (EU). This prime location offers a unique convergence of policy, innovation, and international business, creating an environment where groundbreaking ideas can flourish.

“We are an inclusive, collaborative innovation hub for big ideas and groundbreaking technology dedicated to solving for a more sustainable, equitable, and vibrant future for everyone,” shares Leona Agouridis, President and CEO of the Golden Triangle BID.

A World Class, Connected Neighborhood

At its core, Penn West is dedicated to fostering an environment conducive to innovation. “Innovation happens when people can come together to pursue new ideas and approaches,” Leona emphasizes.

The Golden Triangle BID ensures Penn West remains an attractive and dynamic place to work and innovate. The BID manages a toptier public art and cultural events program that celebrates the area’s international character. This includes museum-quality art installations in parks, ground-floor windows, and along sidewalks, as well as arts festivals, retail pop-ups, and regular activations, to ensure dynamic and culturally rich public spaces. A sustainability leader, the Golden Triangle is the first business improvement district in the world to be named a LEED-certified community. The area’s unrivalled transit access enables entrepreneurs and innovators across the region to converge and collaborate, driving forward new ideas and solutions.

A Commitment to Equity

As its name suggests, Penn West is as committed to equity as innovation - the district promotes access to opportunities for all. It is dedicated to creating jobs that serve the residents of Washington, D.C. A prime example of this commitment is its partnership with BuildWithin, an organization headquartered in Penn West that focuses on equitable workforce development. BuildWithin’s apprenticeship programs provide D.C. residents with pathways to high-quality jobs in the tech sector. The programs not only help prepare apprentices for new career paths, but also connect employers to emergent talent.

“BuildWithin’s commitment to providing its apprentices with access to training and pathways to high-quality jobs is closely aligned with our

vision for Penn West as a place where innovation and prosperity are available to everyone,” says Leona. “BuildWithin has been an integral part of Penn West, and we’re thrilled to support their growth as they scale their important workforce development programs in D.C.”

The Penn West Global Soft Landing Program

One of the most exciting developments at Penn West is the recently launched Washington D.C. Soft Landing initiative, which streamlines the process for international companies to enter the U.S. market and provides resources to help them succeed and grow in D.C. This initiative, a collaboration between the Golden Triangle BID, Penn West, the Washington DC Economic Partnership, the Office of the Deputy Mayor for Planning and Economic Development, GW, and The Build Fellowship by Open Avenues, currently offers two tracks. The Penn West Global Soft Landing Program provides international startups and companies with flexible, discounted real estate at Studio by Tishman Speyer, a coworking space in Penn West, combined with technical assistance and resources to thrive in the D.C. market. The GW x Penn West Global Build Fellowship offers a competitive visa solution for international entrepreneurs, alongside access to the other benefits of the Penn West Global Soft Landing Program.

“Penn West is the perfect place for this program,” Leona enthuses. “Where else in the country can you find the White House, the World Bank, IMF, IFC, EU, State Department, and a major R1 research university within two blocks of each other? Where else can you leave your office, walk a block to a cross-town bus, or take the Metro to Amtrak or Washington Dulles International Airport? Where else do you have access to so many major companies, a diverse workforce, and some of the most educated talent in the world?”

A Hub for Talent and Innovation

Penn West offers significant competitive advantages including access to one of the most highly educated talent pools in the country. Nearly 90% of the 65,000 residents living within a mile of Penn West have a bachelor’s degree, and more than 55% hold a graduate or professional degree. WalletHub ranks D.C. as the #1 most innovative place in the U.S. for 2024, thanks to its high share of STEM employment, degrees and investments in research and development.

Penn West’s proximity to federal regulators, policymakers, and major international organizations makes it an ideal location for universities and businesses. Anchored by GW, Penn West is also home to six national toptier universities with satellite campuses, drawn by the area’s centrality, transit accessibility, walkability, and abundant amenities.

The Penn West Equity and Innovation District is more than just a place; it’s a thriving community where innovation, equity, policy, and social impact converge.

“We are an inclusive, collaborative innovation hub for big ideas and groundbreaking technology dedicated to solving for a more sustainable, equitable, and vibrant future for everyone.”

CHAPTER SIX

PREVIEWIMAGE INNOVATION IN HR & WORKPLACE SOLUTIONS

Empowering D.C.’s Future Through Workforce Innovation

The Innovation

The Capital Workforce Innovation Consortium is a next generation sector partnership between private and public entities aimed at confronting workforce challenges in the nation’s capital, Washington D.C. In a city brimming with untapped talent and plentiful job opportunities, this initiative is pivotal in channeling skilled labor into high-growth industries.

Founded in 2024, the Consortium sprang from the DC Technology Innovation Apprenticeship Hub funded by the Apprenticeship Building America grant program established by the U.S. Department of Labor in 2022. This grant supported BuildWithin, a technology company and U.S. Department of Labor Technology Industry Intermediary, to expand registered apprenticeships in technology. “This initiative has been a leap forward in reshaping paradigms to equip Washington D.C. metro area residents of all backgrounds with technical skills. Through our collaborative endeavors, we have helped open the door for residents from low-income backgrounds to access IT and techrelated roles.” says Philip Minardi, who leads the Apprenticeship Building America district’s national effort for BuildWithin.

“In the past two years, the local Technology Apprenticeship District has gleaned key insights, the most pivotal being the necessity for alignment of workforce skills with employer needs. Employers are in search of work-ready talent, which necessitates training that is not only relevant but also effective in fostering competency in crucial areas. The capability to contribute from day one is a primary expectation of employers, and we’ve discovered that D.C. talent, even those without a tech background, can excel in their first technology roles,” explains Stephanie Baum, Director of Learning at BuildWithin.

DRAFT

We are applying these learnings into the Consortium fostering collaboration across industry sectors, educational institutions, and workforce development agencies, ensuring that the evolving demands of a vibrant and technologically advancing society are met.

The inaugural members of the Capital Workforce Innovation Consortium include the

Penn West Equity and Innovation District, the Golden Triangle Business Improvement District, the DC Tech and Venture Coalition (DCTAV), the Center for Innovative Research, Technology, and Entrepreneurship (CIRTE), Academy of Hope, Community College Preparatory Academy PCS, the National Association of Returning Citizens (NARC), the District of Columbia Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO), Metropolitan Engineering Inc., Captivate, the Greater Washington Black Chamber of Commerce (GWBCC), Children Focus Foundation (CFF), the Greater Washington Hispanic Chamber of Commerce (GWHCC), and the technology company and Apprenticeship Intermediary BuildWithin.

This diverse coalition collaborates to confront workforce challenges in the nation’s capital by aligning employer needs with workforce skills and fostering collaboration across sectors, educational institutions, and workforce agencies. The Consortium is inclusive and focuses on IT, cyber skills and the skilled trades.

Washington D.C., the United States Nation’s Capital

Washington, D.C., officially known as the District of Columbia, serves as the capital of the United States and its federal district. It embodies the essence of the nation’s rich history, its dynamic political life, and its diverse cultural tapestry, making it a central figure in shaping American identity and heritage. As the seat of the federal government, it is home to some of the most significant institutions of American democracy, including the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Supreme Court, and numerous federal agencies. Washington, D.C. also serves as a hub for international diplomacy, hosting embassies and international organizations, thereby enhancing its global significance. city plays a vital role in shaping policies and dialogues that not only affect the United States but also have far-reaching impacts on the global stage. For national security and the position of the U.S. globally it is imperative that our nation’s capital has a workforce that is

employed in great occupations and an employer community that has the workforce it needs to drive the economy forward.

There is demand and there is untapped supply.

The District of Columbia’s unemployment rate, currently at 5%, stands slightly above the national average. However, this statistic reveals a more nuanced and optimistic scenario upon closer inspection. Across Wards 1-6, the average unemployment rate is notably lower, at 4.4%., Conversely, Wards 7 and 8 report a higher-than-average unemployment rate of 10%, underscoring the necessity for tailored attention and support in these areas.

“In the Nation’s Capital, our vision is clear: to merge history with innovation, ensuring opportunities for all to engage in meaningful work that local employers need. Here, talent fuels our economy, offering everyone a chance to thrive in a future where progress and inclusivity walk hand in hand.”

In a heartening contrast, the Washington, D.C. metro area, which includes Maryland, Northern Virginia, and D.C. itself, is marked by a vibrant demand for skilled professionals, especially in the burgeoning fields of technology and cybersecurity. This area is the proud host of nearly 100,000 jobs in cybersecurity, claiming the title for the highest concentration of such employment opportunities in the country. This reveals a silver lining: a ripe environment for bridging the employment gap through focused training and education initiatives. By aligning workforce development efforts with the booming tech industry, there’s a tangible pathway to not only reducing unemployment rates across all wards but also securing the District’s position as a nexus of innovation and opportunity in the tech sector.

– Dr. Unique Morris-Hughes, Secretary of Labor, Washington DC

Photo by Maria Oswalt on Unsplash

“There lies a vast opportunity in synchronizing the competencies of DC’s residents, from every ward with the ever-evolving job market. The goal of the Consortium is to help align the requirements of employers with targeted training initiatives. As we refine our training processes, we’re also creating a roadmap that guides our residents to the careers they aspire to secure” says Kenneth Walker, Deputy Director of D.C. Department of Employment Services.

“Our students are showing high interest in technology training and our participation in the Consortium is helping us be more aligned and strategic in our education programs. Our students want and need good jobs and the great news is that the region has them”, says Azalia Speight, Chief of Schools at Maya Angelou Adult Education Center in Ward 7 in Washington, D.C..

“In the dynamic landscape of the Washington DC metro area, the shortage of skilled technology and cybersecurity professionals is palpable, with sectors like government, defense contracting, finance, and healthcare facing acute shortages. As evidenced by reports such as CyberSeek, this talent deficit poses significant challenges but also opportunities to train DC residents for these jobs” says Cedric Thompson, CEO of the Center for Innovation, Research and Transformation in Education.

DRAFT

“In the cybersecurity sector, the failure to cultivate a local workforce capable of meeting growing demands could leave critical infrastructure and data unprotected. As cyber threats increase in complexity and frequency, the absence of a competent cybersecurity workforce could lead to heightened vulnerabilities not only for local businesses and government agencies but also for the national security apparatus located within the district” says Kevin Morgan, Executive Director of DC Tech and Venture Coalition and member of the Consortium.

The threat is so urgent, and the need for cybersecurity workers is so critical, that the White House established the National Cyber Workforce and Education Strategy (NCWES) to address both the immediate and long-

term cyber workforce needs. This approach mirrors the strategy employed to tackle the healthcare worker shortage during the Pandemic, showcasing the Executive branch’s urgency in addressing this critical issue.

At the Heart of It All

The Consortium activities take place across the District with a center of operations at Penn West Equity and Innovation District. “Situated in the nation’s capital, Penn West is a part of a close-knit community that is committed to leveraging technology and creative urban planning to chart the future of the American downtown”, says Elizabeth Packer, Manager of Penn West.

With access to low-cost, highly flexible workspace; proximity to diverse tech talent, including local students from George Washington University and seven satellite universities from across the nation, and connections to government and policy makers, Penn West offers an inclusive and accessible location for all innovators. Initiatives like the Consortium make complete sense here!

The Consortium Model

The Capital Workforce Innovation Consortium follows the Next Generation Partnership model that is an evolution of the initial sector partnership model and has proven to be effective across the U.S. in developing effective partnership activities for workforce and economic development. Sector Partnerships allow for building collaborations among employers within the same industry sector, along with other stakeholders like educational institutions and workforce development agencies. A recent paper by Lawrence Katz of Harvard University (Katz et al., 2020) reviewed several rigorous evaluations of effective sector based programs and the following characteristics:

a) Effective training of workers for high paying jobs and sectors

b) The transferable and stackable skills generated by the trainings and obtained by the learners

c) The reductions of employment barriers to highwage sectors for minorities and underserved individuals

This model allows for the Consortium to have systems thinking alignment by being:

• Industry led, driven by a committed group of employer champions

• An organizing vehicle for multiple program partners to respond to industry priorities together

• Local

• Action-oriented with specific outcomes for employers and residents

Activities of the Consortium include:

• Competency Mapping between skills and job functions

• 10-year analysis of jobs

• Relevant Training for DC residents

• Future of Work sessions for the public: Parents, counselors, educators, employers

• Training for Community Based Organizations and Training Providers

• Matching of DC residents and High Growth Occupations

Mission Zero

In the nexus of history and innovation, Washington D.C. is actively preparing for a future that is both inclusive and technologically advanced. The Consortium is at the forefront of this transformation, ensuring that every citizen, regardless of their zip code, has access to fulfilling employment, and that every business can find the workforce it needs within its own community. The advancements in technology, particularly in AI, are making these goals more attainable. They serve as equalizers, providing underrepresented communities the opportunity to quickly gain skills and excel in careers that offer rapid upward mobility.

“Our mission extends far beyond merely filling job openings,” said BuildWithin CEO Ximena Gates. We are committed to fostering a society where progress, inclusivity, and economic empowerment are deeply interwoven, thus securing a prosperous future for all. Our goal is to create an environment in which startups not only survive but thrive, propelled by a local and highly skilled talent pool ready to compete globally. Simultaneously, we envision a region capable of hiring from within, where all employers find themselves filling their vacancies quickly with talent from their own community.”

“We have the jobs, and we have the talent; we won’t stop until we fulfill our mission to create a world with zero vacancies, zero unemployment and zero barriers placed in the way of D.C. residents finding the career they deserve,” she concluded.

In the bustling world of tech innovation within the Washington, D.C. metropolitan region, a pioneering company stands tall: BuildWithin. As a skills technology leader at the intersection of education technology and HR tech, BuildWithin supports organizations leading the shift in how we prepare for the Future of Work.

The company was founded by a diverse team of software engineers, seasoned educators, former apprentices, and professionals from various fields. Together, they created a comprehensive solution to address the skills shortage. BuildWithin goes beyond traditional categories, integrating both ed tech and HR tech in a uniquely innovative way.

own workforce through skills-based hiring, which optimized our team and fostered an energetic, diverse culture. We not only built a powerful team and fantastic culture ,” Ximena explains.

In 2013, Phone2Action launched an on-the-job training program designed for high schoolers, college students, career changers, and anyone eager to learn while working. Over time, this program evolved significantly. By 2021, approximately 30% of Phone2Action’s workforce had emerged from this training pipeline.

When the company was acquired, a group of Phone2Action employees joined Ximena to start BuildWithin. “We were in love with the model, and the magic that it did for our company, so we couldn’t help but take those learnings to a new company,” Steffi Baum. BuildWithin co-founder says.

DRAFT

Crafting the Future

Dr. Ximena Gates and her experienced team launched BuildWithin in January 2022. “BuildWithin was somewhat unintentionally incubated within our previous software company, Phone2Action, “ said Ximena “It was born out of sheer necessity.” At Phone2Action, a technology company which patented the first technology to connect citizens with lawmakers, they developed a unique apprenticeship program to address their own talent shortage.

“In Northern Virginia’s thriving tech scene, where competition for talent was intense, we took an unconventional approach. We chose to mold our

This is how BuildWithin was born, offering a unique suite of solutions in the ever changing workforce and skills development space.

The Cornerstones of Innovation

BuildWithin offers a suite of software solutions tailored to the distinct challenges in workforce management. The company’s main products include ‘Explore,’ a career exploration and job matching platform, and ‘Expand,’ a training management platform that facilitates smooth transitions into various professional and technical occupations.

The co-founding team, composed of former IT apprentices, educators, and apprentice managers, brings a distinct blend of practical experience and technical acumen. In the realm of workforce management solutions, BuildWithin is recognized for its pragmatic, problem-solving solutions.

Gerry Gomez, Technical Co-founder of BuildWithin, elaborates on their approach: “Apprenticeships in fields such as health, teaching, software development, customer success, sales, and operations can significantly address talent shortages. However, despite the enthusiasm to initiate these programs, organizations often face implementation challenges. We blend technology with practice. Our decade-long experience in running professional apprenticeships as a technology company provides us with deep insights into user challenges. As practitioners, we have developed a groundbreaking product that delivers transformative results for our customers.

BuildWithin key products: EXPLORE and EXPAND.

EXPLORE helps individuals showcase their skills and align their abilities and interests with career pathways or roles. Employers can also showcase their open roles and get matched with available candidates. School districts, government agencies, companies, and nonprofits use EXPLORE to match students and job seekers with the right opportunities.

EXPLORE leverages cutting-edge technology to build comprehensive user profiles, highlighting their skills, achievements, and experiences in minutes. Organizations use EXPLORE to efficiently match candidates with job functions and requirements. By utilizing advanced algorithms and personalized matching criteria, EXPLORE ensures an optimal fit.

Whether for internships, apprenticeships, or full-time positions, EXPLORE simplifies the recruitment and placement process, making it easier for both job seekers and organizations to find the perfect match. EXPLORE is used alone or in conjunction with EXPAND.

“Imagine a world of zero vacancies, zero unemployment, and zero barriers Where every job vacancy finds its perfect match, and every person their dream job - that’s our mission.”

Potential over Credential

Ximena Gates, co-founder of BuildWithin

EXPAND is an on-the-job training platform that empowers businesses of all sizes, workforce development entities, cities, school districts, and various organizations to implement effective on-the-job training programs.

“As a tech company, we acknowledge the numerous manual tasks involved in delivering effective internships or apprenticeships,” says William Lopez, BuildWithin co-founder. We have witnessed firsthand the essential steps required for new hires, apprentices, or interns to succeed in their roles. This experience has guided us in developing tools that ease the burden on managers while enhancing productivity and satisfaction for new workers.

EXPAND is your go-to platform for onboarding new hires, managing internships, and implementing apprenticeships efficiently. I wish I had this when I was starting out my career”

EXPAND boosts the productivity of hires through upskilling and personalized AI coaching. The platform enables companies to cultivate their talent internally, fostering an environment of continuous learning and improvement.

Working is Learning

BuildWithin is founded on the belief that learning is a lifelong journey and that true understanding comes from hands-on experience. Emphasizing their philosophy, Jessica Murillo from BuildWithin states: “True learning comes not just from understanding but from doing; it’s in the practice, in the iteration, that knowledge becomes firmly established. Direct, constructive feedback refines this process, enhancing our real-world skills. By being ‘in training,’ apprentices and new hires are given the space to grow, to learn by doing, and to cement their newfound skills.”

EXPAND also offers a Registered Apprenticeship Platform specifically designed to manage official United States Apprenticeship programs.

Apprenticeships: A Rebranding Endeavor

While largely untapped in the U.S., apprenticeships are common in European countries. In Switzerland, which consistently ranks first in global innovation, two-thirds of the population choose apprenticeship pathways over the traditional high-school-tocollege track.

DRAFT

“Apprenticeships are an invaluable resource for job seekers aiming to break into high-paying industries like technology or healthcare,” says Philip Minardi, co-founder at BuildWithin.

“For employers, the value proposition is equally high: you bring on someone eager to learn who will not leave you in two years.

Apprenticeships are not just an alternative to college but a great transition tool. It allows both job seekers and employers to test their working relationship, and that’s an advantage you don’t often come across.”

BuildWithin envisages a future where learning is not linear and companies don’t solely rely on external educational institutions for talent development. “Amidst a job market reshuffle, career changes have become the norm. The 2024 report by the US Chamber of Commerce noted that, although people frequently quit jobs, the rate of securing new roles exceeds the rate of resignations. This indicates that individuals are actively seeking better fits. For employers, this presents a unique opportunity to attract a diverse pool of talent - career changers, veterans, retirees, individuals without degrees, and those returning from a career break. Traditional HR processes often overlook these valuable candidates, favoring credentials over potential. However, many forward-thinking employers want to change this approach, aiming to discover the untapped potential in this diverse talent pool—and that’s where we come in,” she says.

The Future of Work

Stephanie Baum, BuildWithin co-founder, emphasizes the importance of introducing young people to potential career paths early in their educational journey. She states, “Since the internet’s inception, the world has rapidly changed. It’s essential to introduce children to various occupations starting in elementary school. Jobs traditionally seen as manual labor, like construction, now incorporate virtual reality and robotics, making them more appealing through technological advancements. As students progress through middle and high school, formal on-the-job training opportunities should be integrated into their curriculum. Some of BuildWithin software engineers, like Liam Rathke, began working with us as high school sophomores. Today’s youth are better equipped than ever to explore different careers and find their interests. It’s disheartening

to meet college graduates who believe they’ve chosen the wrong field. Waiting 16 years to test a career path is simply not effective.

BuildWithin has tools for every phase of the career journey and some of their most avid users are career changers transitioning into new roles. “We are seeing time and time again through our users that everyone, regardless of age and education background, has valuable skills that are transferable into well paying jobs. Using these tools in the workplace not only improves the culture but also transforms the company into a learning organization. In such environments, mentoring and learning are synonymous, allowing employees to grow in tandem with the product and the needs of their customers. The companies that will navigate this period of significant talent shortages successfully are those willing to adopt bold strategies and prioritize skill-based hiring,” Liam Rathke says.

The Future of Work is Skilled

Addressing the so-called ‘talent shortage crisis’, Jessica Murillo, former Phone2Action apprentice and now Data Scientist in the founding team of BuildWithin, sheds light on the situation. She states, “What we are facing is not a talent or jobs shortage, nor job displacements due to technology. Instead, it’s a normal evolution of life, seen more prominently in the world of work. Work once done manually out of necessity can now be technologically assisted. Upskilling is a must, and careers are no longer static; they are fluid and evolving. The traditional notion of a single lifelong occupation is giving way to a dynamic journey of continuous learning and adaptation.”

The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs 2020 report suggests that while about 85 million jobs may be displaced by the integration of

humans and machines by 2025, around 97 million new roles are expected to emerge, fitting the new paradigm.

In light of this, it has become essential for employers to not only recognize this shift but actively participate in it. The way forward is not clinging to outdated methods but embracing the transformation, formalizing on-thejob training practices and adopting company-wide talent development strategies. This approach allows employers to take control of their own destinies and build their workforce assets, creating a solid foundation for future growth and success.

BuildWithin stands as a symbol of innovation in workforce development, driven by the vision of a dedicated team. By valuing potential over credentials and embracing change, BuildWithin is not just preparing for the future of work; it is actively shaping it, fostering a culture of continuous learning and internal development. With this visionary approach, BuildWithin is redefining the landscape of workforce development and upskilling.

BuildWithin Dr. Ximena Hartsock

JoinBuildwithin ximenahartsock joinbuildwithin

If you’re a young person in the District of Columbia, this is where your aspirations take shape. Skills Nation is your go-to source to explore a variety of innovative tools and resources designed to elevate your potential and uncover exciting career opportunities.

Skills Nation, an initiative of the federal workforce programs of the Department of Employment Services, features highly effective initiatives for D.C. youth.

HBCU Public Service Program

Launched in 2024, this program places 25 outstanding seniors from Howard University and the University of the District of Columbia in apprenticeships hosted at D.C. government agencies and DC Water. Participants combine full-time work assignments with practical, hands-on training, gain valuable mentorship, and engage in ongoing professional development opportunities. They also benefit from a competitive salary, excellent benefits, and paid time off.

This partnership aims to harness D.C.’s diverse energy and channel it into the public service sector. We seek individuals who can introduce fresh ideas and new perspectives. In return, participants receive an education that not only instructs but propels their careers forward. “Together, we’ll work to build stronger neighborhoods and a more inclusive, equitable District of Columbia,” states Kenneth Walker, Deputy Deputy Director of Federal Workforce Programs.

Participants in the Public Service Apprenticeship join a close-knit cohort, forge valuable connections, engage in community service projects, and enhance their professional skills. You’ll have the flexibility to explore various career paths and find your perfect fit. The best part? Upon

DRAFT

completing the program, you’re guaranteed a position within the D.C. government, becoming a crucial part of shaping the city’s future.

“The HBCU Public Apprenticeship is a pathway to a career in government. It is an amazing opportunity,” said Montrell Nelson, HBCU Class of 2024, apprentice at the Office of the Chief Technology Officer (OCTO).

Out-of-School Program

The Out-of-School Program offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to equip young adults with the skills and knowledge needed to

thrive in today’s job market. The program includes occupational skills training, career awareness counseling, work readiness modules, basic education, GED preparation, and various on-the-job training experiences. Participants also receive vocational skills training in diverse fields such as retail services, hospitality, administrative assistance (including MOS certification), information technology, culinary arts, and automotive services.

Targeted at young adults ages 16-24 who are not currently enrolled in secondary or post-secondary education, the Out-of-School Program is dedicated to helping participants achieve both short-term and long-term educational and employability goals. Through a blend of practical training and personalized guidance, the program empowers youth to navigate their career paths effectively, offering real-world experience that enhances their employability. Each participant benefits from targeted training that meets industry demands, ensuring they are well-prepared to enter the workforce with a strong foundation in their chosen vocational area.

Youth Apprenticeships

The Youth Apprenticeship Program is an educational initiative that offers students the opportunity to begin learning a profession by integrating on-the-job experience with relevant academic and technical classroom instruction. Traditional apprenticeship careers include fields such as construction, electrical work, glazing, and welding, while nontraditional paths cover professions like information technology, hospitality, healthcare, and green energy jobs.

This unique blend of hands-on learning and classroom education equips students with the practical skills and theoretical knowledge needed to excel in their chosen occupations. Students also benefit from mentorship from industry professionals, who provide guidance and support throughout their apprenticeship journey.

DeErika Joi Smith, 18, a healthcare apprentice with Howard University Faculty Practice Plan, shares her experience: “A team member from the

Department of Employment Services visited my high school to introduce the program. I thought, ‘That’s something I could do,’ and took the initiative to reach out. I feel very proud to be working in a large hospital setting in D.C. and functioning as a regular employee.”

Liam Rathke, co-founder and software developer at BuildWithin, began his journey as a youth apprentice while still in junior high school, demonstrating the immense potential and impact of early apprenticeship opportunities.

Pre-Apprenticeships

Quality pre-apprenticeships are designed to prepare individuals for entry into Registered Apprenticeship Programs by combining practical experience with foundational training.

Luis Sarno, a software developer apprentice learned about a preapprenticeship opportunity from Randall Shannon, a D.C. Department of Employment Services workforce development specialist. “I’ve always loved computers, but I never had the chance to attend college or take classes,” Sarno said. “After the 7-week pre-apprenticeship, I was hired as a web developer apprentice. Now I’m coding, and my employer has already informed me that I’ll be staying with the company after my apprenticeship ends. The pre-apprenticeship truly changed my life.”

SHRMLABS

Spearheading Workplace Innovation Globally

As the pioneering innovation lab and venture capital arm of SHRM, headquartered in Alexandria, Va., SHRMLabs drives the development of revolutionary and ethical technologies tailored to solve pressing realworld workplace challenges. By connecting a global community of over 325,000 HR professionals with leading startups and innovators worldwide, SHRMLabs spearheads collaborative projects that touch the lives of more than 362 million workers and their families globally while reshaping the future of work.

Driving Groundbreaking HR Technologies

Since 2020, SHRMLabs has been instrumental in bringing to life technologies that transform employee experiences, including data-driven talent optimization platforms, predictive HR decision-making intelligence, and AI-powered support chatbots. SHRMLabs connects stakeholders across backgrounds and industries to facilitate creative collisions that spark lasting innovation in enhancing employee experience, improving talent assessment, and reducing management burden.

“We are living at the intersection of technology and work like never before. As the world leader in all things work, SHRMLabs is strategically positioned to be on the front edge of where these trends are moving. On a daily basis, we engage with HR leaders, technology leaders, futurists, and founders to shape our trusted, objective perspective on what the future holds for workplace technology,” says Andy Biladeau, Chief Transformation Officer at SHRM.

Accelerating Workplace Innovation Through Strategic Initiatives

As the pioneering innovation arm of SHRM, SHRMLabs advances its mission to reshape the future of work through four key programs:

• WorkplaceTech Accelerator: This 12-week hybrid program provides selected HR tech startups with extensive training, introductions to elite networks, and a $200,000 investment to fund hypergrowth trajectories. Participants refine their products and strategies while engaging directly with end users and advisors. The startups that graduate from the program are poised for exponential impact in transforming the workplace.

• Better Workplaces Challenge Cup: This pitch competition showcases bold innovations that tackle the workplace’s biggest evolving challenges, from skills gaps to mental health support for hybrid teams. Competitors present their breakthrough ideas to elevate the workplace to leading HR experts and tech enthusiasts from around the world. Winners unlock piloting opportunities, access to the SHRM community, and potential funding to bring concepts to life.

• Impact Investing: SHRMLabs provides capital to seed bold ideas that are spearheading positive social change through HR tech. These investments prioritize innovations advancing next-generation people practices, technologies accelerating the growth and careers of workers around the globe, and solutions addressing the most complex workplace challenges.

• WorkplaceTech Community: This global forum facilitates connections among peers to discuss trends and imagine future solutions. Members learn from leading workplace experts, discover new technologies, and collaborate to guide the ethical evolution of work powered by tech.

These programs link international innovators with the funding, networks, and resources they need to drive leading-edge HR technology development with real business impact. SHRMLabs also convenes diverse thinkers at events, meetups, and workshops worldwide to develop revolutionary solutions tailored to evolving practitioner needs.

Empowering the Global Workforce of the Future

SHRMLabs’ goal is to arm HR leaders across borders with cutting-edge, ethical technologies that create empowering, equitable, and productive work environments for the global workforce of the future. By giving voice to international practitioner pain points and uniting world-class partners, SHRMLabs fosters innovations that solve needs on the ground level while transforming employee experiences from the inside out.

From international startups and global 500s to investors and business leaders across emerging markets, SHRMLabs welcomes all who share its mission to reshape the future of work through technology. Together with its partners across industries and geographies, SHRMLabs leads the way in building a bright outlook through human-centered technologies that create more empowering and equitable workplaces.

Fem Equity’s Vision is to Close the Pay Gap for Career Women by $1 BILLION DOLLARS by 2030

Fem Equity, a pioneering career & workforce platform driven by artificial intelligence, has reached a significant milestone by generating over a million dollars in salary impact since its establishment. With a vision to narrow the pay gap for career women by $1 billion by 2030, Fem Equity is dedicated to driving meaningful change and fostering greater equity in the workplace. This groundbreaking achievement founded by Adeola Ajani is a testament to the platform’s effectiveness in empowering individuals, particularly women of color, to advance their careers and achieve financial success.

Before the year 2023, less than 100 black women had successfully raised $1 million or more in venture capital funding. This disparity highlighted the systemic challenges faced by women of color in accessing capital and resources to grow their businesses. However, Fem Equity’s success story signifies a positive shift in the landscape, as it demonstrates the potential for black and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) women to thrive in both corporate and entrepreneurial spaces.

The Fem Equity team, consisting of Adeola Ajani, Malir Burks, along with senior coaches Natahcia Scott and Rachel Fry, has showcased outstanding leadership and innovation by developing a platform that addresses the unique needs and challenges faced by marginalized groups in the workforce. By leveraging artificial intelligence technology, Fem Equity provides tailored career support, resources, and opportunities to help individuals navigate their professional journey and achieve their goals.

The platform’s ability to generate significant salary impact underscores its effectiveness in facilitating career advancement and economic empowerment for its users. By helping individuals secure higher-paying job opportunities, negotiate better salaries, and access career development resources, Fem Equity is making a tangible difference in the lives of women, particularly those from underrepresented communities.

With this milestone achievement, the Fem Equity team is poised to capitalize on its momentum and pursue further growth and expansion. By leveraging their success to attract funding and strategic partnerships, they can scale their platform and amplify its impact on a larger scale. This includes expanding their reach to serve more users, enhancing their technology infrastructure, and launching new initiatives to address emerging needs in the workforce.

Furthermore, Fem Equity’s success under the leadership of Adeola Ajani serves as a beacon of inspiration and empowerment for women of color aspiring to pursue leadership roles not only in the tech industry but also in business, finance, and other sectors.. By showcasing the achievements of black and BIPOC women in corporate spaces, Fem Equity is breaking down barriers and challenging the status quo, paving the way for greater diversity and inclusion in the tech ecosystem and beyond.

In conclusion, Fem Equity’s milestone achievement of generating over a million dollars of salary impact within 36 months is a testament to the platform’s transformative impact on the careers and lives of women, particularly those from marginalized communities. As the team continues to innovate and expand, they are poised to drive even greater change and empower individuals to achieve their full potential in the workforce. As the platform continues to grow and expand, it has the potential to make a significant impact on the lives of women, particularly those from underrepresented communities, and pave the way for a more inclusive and equitable financial future.

Fem Equity founder, coaches, and partners at annual Fem Equity (Black Women Equal Pay Day) Conference Fem Equity founder, Adeola

CHAPTER SEVEN

PREVIEWIMAGE INNOVATION

IN LIFE SCIENCES, HEALTHCARE & MEDICAL TECHNOLOGY

Illuminating Actionable Insights From Complex Medical Data with the Sorcero AI Platform™

The pharmaceutical industry invests billions in drug development and research, but the journey doesn’t end with regulatory approval. Postapproval, medical affairs teams in life sciences companies bridge the gap between clinical research and commercial activities. These teams leverage scientific expertise to support product development, educate healthcare professionals, and maintain regulatory compliance. However, the tools and solutions available to these teams often fall short, resulting in slow, siloed processes and delayed discoveries. Sorcero addresses this challenge by using AI to help doctors, patients, and drug manufacturers uncover medical insights faster, ultimately resulting in better patient outcomes worldwide.

The problem Sorcero tackles is monumental. In oncology alone, over 4,000 new publications emerge every week – a volume that would require dozens of full-time professionals just to read the abstracts. This data overload creates significant bottlenecks in the healthcare industry, leading to missed opportunities, inefficient use of expertise, communication breakdowns, slower innovation, and increased costs.

Recognizing the urgent need for a solution, Sorcero has developed a suite of AI-powered tools designed to empower medical affairs teams and bridge the gap between groundbreaking research and its practical application in patient care.

The Sorcero AI Platform revolutionizes how Life Sciences companies ask – and answer – their most critical medical strategy questions

In an era of rapidly expanding medical knowledge, Sorcero stands at the forefront of innovation, leveraging cutting-edge AI technology to transform how the healthcare industry processes, analyzes, and utilizes vast amounts of medical data. As a trailblazer in Medical Insights Management (MIM), Sorcero addresses one of the most pressing challenges faced by medical affairs organizations worldwide: the overwhelming deluge of scientific information that threatens to impede progress in healthcare delivery and patient outcomes.

At the heart of Sorcero’s innovative approach is the Sorcero MIM solution. This comprehensive solution unifies and organizes both structured and unstructured medical data from diverse sources into a single, collaborative platform. By consolidating this information, Sorcero enables medical affairs teams to extract more value from their data, facilitating faster and more informed decision-making to drive medical strategy.

One of the most exciting features of the MIM platform is the Instant Insights Engine™. This AI-powered tool utilizes advanced natural language processing to allow users to query their data using simple language, mimicking the experience of consulting with an expert colleague. By enabling medical professionals to ask complex questions and receive high-quality, evidence-based answers instantly, Sorcero is dramatically accelerating the pace at which critical medical knowledge can be accessed and applied.

nearly 9 out of 10 adults lack the skills needed to manage their health effectively.

Sorcero’s commitment to innovation is further exemplified by the introduction of Scientific Sentiment™, a groundbreaking feature that quantifies product perception across key opinion leaders (KOLs), healthcare providers (HCPs) and the market. This tool provides medical affairs teams with a deeper understanding of efficacy and safety information, allowing them to measure trends, identify evidence gaps, and quantify the ROI of outreach efforts.

Recognizing the growing demand for accessible medical information, Sorcero has also developed Sorcero PLS™ for Plain Language Summaries. An AI-powered tool that automatically generates high-quality, patient-accessible summaries of scientific publications. This innovative solution not only reduces the manual workload for medical writers but also plays a crucial role in bridging the gap between complex medical information and patient understanding. By producing summaries that are more readable than the industry average, Sorcero is directly addressing the health literacy challenge, where

The impact of Sorcero’s innovations has been remarkable. In collaboration with industry leaders like UCB and Lumanity, Sorcero’s PLS solution has increased the readability of medical literature from under 1% to an impressive 51% for both patients and providers.

Furthermore, Sorcero PLS abstracts have been rated higher in quality by subject matter experts compared to manually written ones, with physicians preferring the AI-generated outputs for use with patients.

The excitement surrounding Sorcero’s contributions to the healthcare industry is palpable. Their platform is utilized by 23% of the top global pharmaceutical companies, a testament to its value and reliability in the life sciences sector. This widespread adoption is accelerating the dissemination of critical medical information and empowering patients to participate more actively in their healthcare decisions.

Sorcero’s innovative approach has not gone unnoticed. Fast Company recognized the company as the #1 Most Innovative Company in the Small and Mighty category for 2024, validating their impact on the industry and potential for future growth. Strategic partnerships with industry leaders have further expanded Sorcero’s reach and capabilities, enabling them to leverage advanced AI technologies while ensuring responsible AI use in life sciences.

As Sorcero continues to push the boundaries of what’s possible in healthcare technology, they remain committed to their ultimate goal: improving patient outcomes and accelerating the adoption of breakthrough therapies.

Image source: Ron Cogswell Flickr

Dipanwita Das, Sorcero Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder. Richard Graves, Sorcero Chief Commercial Officer and Co-founder. Walter Bender, Sorcero Chief Scientific Officer and Co-founder.

How NasaClip is Changing Nosebleed Treatment

In the crowded landscape of medical devices, NasaClip is making a bold statement with its novel approach to treating nosebleeds. Founded by Dr. Elizabeth Clayborne, an emergency physician with firsthand experience in the frustrations of traditional nosebleed treatments, NasaClip offers a revolutionary, practical, and effective solution. The company’s flagship product is an adjustable nosebleed rescue device that provides constant, comfortable, hands-free compression with intranasal sponges that can be medicated, making nosebleed treatment quicker and easier in any setting.

The Inspiration Behind NasaClip

Dr. Clayborne’s journey to creating NasaClip began during her residency at The George Washington University, where she served as chief resident. During this time, she frequently encountered patients with nosebleeds, a seemingly minor issue that often required significant time and resources to manage.

“As an ER physician, I’ve seen countless nosebleeds and witnessed the frustration of both patients and healthcare professionals with existing treatment methods,” she says. “I wanted to create a device that makes nosebleed treatment quicker and easier, both inside and outside of the hospital.”

Addressing a Common Problem

Nosebleeds, while typically not serious, can be surprisingly difficult to manage. Traditional methods are often timeconsuming, invasive, and painful, leaving patients dissatisfied with their care. NasaClip’s innovative design combines external nasal pressure and intranasal sponges into one hands-free device, providing a better way to treat nosebleeds in clinics, schools, homes, and more. Dr. Clayborne explains, “NasaClip provides the uninterrupted pressure your body needs to complete its natural clotting process. With our device, any child or adult can manage a nosebleed without the need for a doctor.”

Growing Demand and Expanding Reach

Overcoming Challenges and Breaking Barriers

Dr. Clayborne’s journey with NasaClip has not been without its challenges. As a biracial Black woman in a predominantly white and male-dominated industry, she has had to overcome significant barriers to bring her vision to life. However, her determination and resilience have been key to her success. “I really want to knock it out of the park with NasaClip to show other women and people of color they can be successful in business,” she shares. “Investing in people from my demographic is not charity. I’m here to bring a return on their money and have a successful business, and I am very confident that I’ll be able to do that.”

Trusted by ER Doctors

“As physicians, treating nosebleeds is typically straightforward, but it can become cumbersome because we lacked an effective solution for patients to use while they waited,” Dr. Clayborne explained. “Since these patients often have lower acuity, they sometimes had to wait for hours.” Maryland has some of the highest ER wait times in the country; data from 2024 showed that patients spent an average of more than four hours in ERs before being discharged.

The response to NasaClip has been overwhelmingly positive. The company engaged several big names in the NBA, NFL, travel and event medicine, as well as hundreds of healthcare systems and clinics. The company is raising a $4 million seed round to onboard these B2B customers, launch a reusable and subscription consumer product line, and scale revenue. NasaClip has raised over $3.5 million from venture and physician angel investors and received $300,000 in non-dilutive grants from NSF I-Corps and SBIR Phase I programs.

“We are committed to making NasaClip a household name in nosebleed treatment,” asserts Dr. Clayborne. “Our goal is to empower individuals and healthcare providers with a simple, effective solution that improves care and reduces costs.”

NasaClip has gained the trust of ER doctors and healthcare professionals who see the potential of the device to improve patient care and reduce emergency room wait times. Dr. Maurice Reid, an investor in NasaClip and founder of ExpressCare Urgent Care Centers, emphasizes the impact: “This product could immediately be applied and control the bleed in the waiting room, which would help decompress the ERs and get other patients with more serious conditions seen quicker.”

Looking Ahead

NasaClip is not just a medical device; it is a movement towards more efficient and patient-friendly healthcare solutions. Dr. Clayborne envisions a future where NasaClip is available on airlines, cruise ships, and EMS departments, making effective nosebleed treatment accessible to all. She is also exploring future iterations of the device that serves as an intranasal drug delivery platform.

“NasaClip takes the pressure off healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers and puts it where it belongs: on nosebleeds.”

NasaClip is revolutionizing nosebleed treatment with its innovative, hands-free device. Dr. Elizabeth Clayborne’s vision and determination have driven the company to the forefront of medical technology, providing a better way to manage a common yet cumbersome medical issue. With continued growth and expansion, NasaClip is set to become an essential tool in medical and consumer settings, offering fast, effective relief from nosebleeds.

Dr. Clayborne sums it up best: “NasaClip takes the pressure off healthcare professionals, patients, and caregivers and puts it where it belongs: on nosebleeds.”

NasaClip DrElizPC Pictures all courtesy of Dr. Liz Clayborne NasaClip.com

A Vanguard of Healthcare’s Transformation

“Grassroots physician leadership will be vital for patient-centered transformative innovation.”

Cubismi is redefining the frontiers of healthcare through the synergy of AI, cloud, and physician-led human-centered design. Guided by the visionary leadership of Dr. Moira Schieke, Cubismi is leading transformative innovation to usher in a new epoch of personalized patient care and patient empowerment.

Leading with Purpose: A Physician’s Perspective

Dr. Schieke, the CEO, CMO, and founder of Cubismi, is a successful change-maker in the medical field. A board-certified clinical radiologist with a rich cancer imaging and MRI expertise, Dr. Schieke’s journey has fueled and equipped her to transcend the confines of healthcare’s misaligned market. Today’s market is not properly aligned with the consumer (as markets should be). In the case of healthcare, the market should be operating for the patient’s benefit first and foremost, yet it is doing the absolute opposite today. Quality of care is plummeting and physicians face a burn-out crisis while costs escalate. Those costs are being shouldered by patients while large corporations grow in profitability. Today, medical bills are the US’s number one cause of bankruptcy, while patients and physicians

of physician engagement in driving the future of healthcare. “Grassroots physician leadership will be vital for patient-centered transformative innovation.” she implores, envisioning a future where technology and medical expertise converge to create a high-quality, cost-efficient, and empathetic healthcare system. Cubismi’s mission is a testament to the power of visionary leadership and the transformative potential of aligning technology with the human element of healthcare.

are increasingly disempowered. According to Dr. Schieke, successful change to reclaim our healthcare system for the sake of patients requires foundational new technology innovation coupled with physician and patient empowerment.

Leading with Vision: Decision Flow-3D™

“A renaissance for physician experience will drive a new era of personalized patient care outcomes,” is Cubismi’s core belief that propels its mission forward. The Decision Flow-3DTM platform employs AI-cloud technology to introduce innovative decision augmentation capabilities for physicians. This allows for a significant advancement in making efficient and high-quality patient care decisions in fast-paced environments, leveraging datasets from the precision-era. Designed using human-centered principles, Decision Flow-3D™ will serve as a conduit for optimal focus, allowing clinicians to navigate the complexities of patient data with unprecedented clarity and speed. In particular, Cubismi was the first known platform designed for “decision intelligence” capabilities for “best routes” identification to optimize patient care outcomes while assuring proper patient controls. “We want to augment the physician

“decision link” at the point-of-care to establish novel “decision flows” that reconnect today’s massive data and analytics resources to patient care outcomes.” This visionary tool is a testament to Cubismi’s commitment to transforming healthcare through technological elegance and intuitive design that re-empowers the patient-physician relationship.

A Leap Towards Personalized Care with AI and Cloud

“Imagine a platform where all users – primarily radiologists, physicians, and patients - have core new functionality at their fingertips thanks to modern technology to manage massive data sets easily and make fast, efficient, good decisions – using various apps and tools customized for each,” she states. Cubismi’s unique platform AI-cloud capabilities stem from its patented “hypercube computer vision” foundational technology. It is the only known company pioneering the creation of a virtual, highly interactive 3D avatar for each patient enabling expert users to zoom-out for the big picture and zoom-in for key details. It will enable innumerable digital twin use cases, allowing physician users to powerfully filter out unnecessary normal tissue information. The core technology will also enable more powerful

granular biomarkers of innumerable diseases. The creative leap of unique innovation utilizes AI to weave a 3D-time map that integrates a myriad of data points into a cohesive, highly interactive model at various levels of anatomical resolution.

Disrupting Legacy Barriers

The genesis of Cubismi was motivated by Dr. Schieke’s realization of the dire need for a shift away from legacy healthcare IT systems that stifle innovation and personalization, which are critical need for diseases such as cancer.

The frustration with the status quo stems from real-world clinical experience: “We have a legacy healthcare IT that’s creating enormous barriers for physicians at the point-of-care and completely lacks the basic functionality expert users need, leading to declining decision performance. This horrendous problem at the point of care carries downstream by breaking

the human expert “decision link,” leading to declining outcomes.” Through Cubismi, Dr. Schieke is challenging the status quo and laying the groundwork for systems-level evolution into the future. “Google Maps similarly started with structuring and mapping all the globe’s data to geographical locations by a start-up in the 1990s. Today’s Google Maps shows the enormous power of systems-level evolution of successful human-information interaction design based on better data structuring. Despite the wisdom of success in other domains, healthcare’s data remains 80% unstructured today,” she states.

The Horizon of Healthcare Revolution By harnessing AI, cloud, and physician-led human-centered design, Cubismi’s top team is not just navigating the future of healthcare but actively sculpting it. As a start-up taking a leadership position, success demands a more complex and higher level of business validation. Cubismi’s business challenge is not to prove efficiency gains with AI, as seen with virtually all other “efficiency innovation” AI point solution “workflow improvement” competitors in their space. Cubismi must instead prove the success of a new platform business model with new value propositions and entirely new growth engines. With each step forward in progress to this goal, Cubismi reiterates its commitment to a world where every patient is empowered to control their high-value personalized healthcare experience to optimize their personal and family’s health and well-being.

As Cubismi continues to evolve, its story is a source of hope and inspiration for all who believe in the transformative power of technology when wielded with compassion and vision. In the bustling innovation landscape of Washington D.C., Cubismi shines brightly as a harbinger of a new dawn in healthcare.

A Future Forged by Physician Leadership

At its core, Cubismi is a clarion call for physician and patient empowerment for successful personalized care in the future. Dr. Schieke’s journey underscores the paramount importance

– Dr. Moira Schieke

Leading the Charge in Decoding Human Behavior for Healthcare Innovation

Surgo Health, a behavioral AI company based in Washington, DC, is transforming the healthcare landscape with its innovative approach. The company is driven by a mission to empower the healthcare ecosystem with the deepest understanding of human behavior, utilizing proprietary data and AI technology to produce intelligence, analytics, and recommendations. This enables biopharmaceutical companies to drive product uptake, address inequities, reduce costs, and improve outcomes.

The Journey of Surgo Health

The story of Surgo Health is deeply intertwined with the journey of its CEO and co-founder, Dr. Sema Sgaier. A neuroscientist by training, Dr. Sgaier’s 20-year career has been dedicated to studying and leveraging the underlying drivers behind human behavior to design healthcare solutions that meet people where they are. Her extensive work with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation in HIV prevention, reproductive and maternal health, and immunization programs revealed critical insights: “Perceptual drivers, such as beliefs and attitudes, as well as structural and contextual

barriers, play a significant role in determining a person’s behavior and, consequently, their health outcomes. However, these factors are often overlooked or considered too late in many health programs, leading to suboptimal outcomes.”

This realization led Dr. Sgaier to co-found Surgo Health with a vision to integrate socio-behavioral data into healthcare strategies. She recognized that while clinical data provides the “what” about patients’ conditions and medical history, there was a need for a deeper understanding of the “why” behind human engagement with healthcare.

Innovation at the Core Surgo Health’s innovative approach is rooted in its novel socio-behavioral data, which is unmatched in its comprehensive scope and depth and complemented by its proprietary AI technology platform. “Innovation is the cornerstone of our company’s identity,” says Dr. Sgaier. “Our novel socio-behavioral data, unmatched in its comprehensive scope and depth, complemented by our proprietary AI technology platform, empowers the healthcare ecosystem with the deepest understanding of human behavior.”

“To truly enhance patient outcomes and drive progress, we must break free from conventional thinking.”

“Innovation embodies a willingness to take risks and explore uncharted territories, all with the aim of enhancing human well-being,” elucidates Dr. Sgaier. “It means embracing failure as a stepping stone to rapid learning, fostering adaptability, prioritizing collaboration, and setting aside personal ego for the collective benefit of society.”

The company’s commitment to innovation is evident in its dynamic environment, which enables swift pivots and enhancements to its offerings as circumstances demand. The ultimate goal is to empower the healthcare ecosystem with the most profound, holistic understanding of human behavior, nurturing a new wave of innovators dedicated to advancing global health.

Pivotal Partnerships

A significant catalyst for Surgo Health’s growth has been its partnerships with top pharmaceutical companies. These collaborations have allowed Surgo Health to gain invaluable insights into the industry’s most pressing challenges, enabling the co-creation of precise, personalized solutions.

“These partnerships have been the catalyst for our innovation, propelling us to swiftly adapt, iterate, and tailor our offerings with unparalleled precision and purpose,” she states.

The Power of AI

The advancement of AI technology is a particularly exciting aspect of Surgo Health’s work. “The advancement of AI presents compelling opportunities to scale and enhance the impact of our solutions,” says Dr. Sgaier. The company is continuously evolving its AI-powered technology platform, exploring new ways to apply its insights and expand its global reach.

Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion

Surgo Health is a women-led company committed to supporting women and people of color in tech and science. “With a strong focus on diversity, we are building our team and expanding our foundations in Washington, DC, leveraging the rich ecosystem of healthcare organizations in the area,” asserts Dr. Sgaier. The company believes that Washington, DC., is uniquely positioned to be a hub of innovation in healthcare, including in the forprofit/corporate sector.

Contributing to the Innovation Ecosystem

Surgo Health actively engages with and supports fellow innovators in the DMV community. The executive team collaborates with policy, public health, and biopharmaceutical sector stakeholders to explore innovative solutions for addressing health disparities and enhancing outcomes. She states: “We are deeply engaged with local startup event organizers such as DC Startup Week and DCA Live, constantly seeking new avenues to contribute to and connect with our vibrant DMV community.”

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Surgo Health is poised for continued growth and innovation. Dr. Sgaier shares: “We are incredibly excited about the trajectory ahead. While we focus on empowering the ecosystem with the deepest understanding of human behavior, we are equally inspired by our work’s wide range of potential applications.” The company is enthusiastic about the ongoing expansion of its global team, recognizing the crucial role its talented and dedicated employees play in shaping its future.

“Lasting, meaningful innovation in healthcare thrives on collaboration,” emphasizes Dr. Sgaier. “To truly enhance patient outcomes and drive progress, we must break free from conventional thinking. By fostering strategic partnerships, promoting cross-sector collaboration, and embracing transformative technologies, we can elevate healthcare to new heights.”

Surgo Health’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, collaboration, and a deep understanding of human behavior. As the company continues to grow and evolve, it remains steadfast in its mission to create a healthier, more equitable world for all.

NANOBIOFAB

Pioneering the Future of Medical Sensing Technology

NanoBioFab blends nanotechnology with artificial intelligence to create innovative solutions for early infection detection and personalized healthcare.

Founded by Dr. Xiaonao Liu, this medtech company is revolutionizing the medical industry with its AI-driven smart sensors and high-throughput 3D nano-printing technology. NanoBioFab is on a journey fueled by personal motivation, cutting-edge technology, and a relentless drive for innovation.

From Personal Tragedy to Technological Triumph

NanoBioFab’s inception is rooted in a deeply personal story. Dr. Liu’s father-in-law succumbed to leukemia, a tragedy that ignited her and her husband’s desire to combine their expertise in nanosensors and AI technology to evolve early disease detection technology. Originally, the mission was to focus on cancer, but the complexities of cancer detection prompted a pivot. The company’s first target became the early detection of infections in chronic and acute wounds, a decision driven by both technological feasibility and urgent medical need. Dr. Liu shares: “This pivot has allowed us to develop non-invasive devices that provide continuous, real-time monitoring of bacterial growth, enabling early intervention and significantly improving patient outcomes.”

Innovative Technology at the Core

NanoBioFab’s breakthrough lies in its unique blend of nanotechnology and AI. The company employs patented technology to produce ultra-fast, high-throughput 3D nano-prints and screen nanosensors capable of detecting minute amounts of gases from the skin and the breath. This technology is poised to transform telemedicine and personalized healthcare, particularly with the advent of 5G connectivity.

“Our AI-powered high-throughput experimentation in nanosensors shortens the time to market and enhances the quality of R&D in all phases of sensor and process

development,” Dr. Liu explains. “We support our customers from idea generation to sensor development with dedicated project teams, state-of-the-art technology solutions, and integrated analytical software.”

The high-throughput 3D nano-printing synthesis and screening platform NanoBioFab has developed is the fastest large-scale sensor R&D technology in the world. It drastically reduces R&D time from several years to mere months, offering a significant competitive edge in the medical and defense markets. The platform allows for the creation and rapid screening of hundreds to thousands of unique materials, streamlining the experimental process and reducing personnel costs.

Real-World Applications and Impact

One of NanoBioFab’s flagship products, WoundSentry, exemplifies the company’s

innovative spirit. This product integrates nanosensors into smart bandages and dressings to continuously monitor bacterial growth and track antibiotic treatment effectiveness. This technology is not only revolutionary but essential for high-risk patients, particularly in military and medical settings.

“WoundSentry can be compatible with various types of wound dressings and provides real-time data on bacterial growth,” says Dr. Liu. “This capability is crucial in preventing infections and ensuring timely and effective treatment.”

The company’s innovative solutions have garnered significant attention and investment, including a $3.3 million contract from the Defense Health Agency. This funding underscores the critical need for advanced infection detection technologies in civilian and military healthcare.

A Team of Visionaries

NanoBioFab’s success is driven by a diverse team of experts, including material scientists, sensor engineers, microbiologists, AI experts, and medical device specialists. This multidisciplinary approach is fundamental to smart sensors’ high-throughput development and successful deployment in various applications, especially in wound care.

“We have eight PhDs on our team, each bringing unique expertise in chemistry, chemical engineering, microbiology, and AI,” Dr. Liu notes. “Our team’s diversity in background and thought is our strength, enabling us to tackle complex challenges and drive innovation forward.”

Its leadership team comprises Dr. Liu, Dr. Ruoting Yang (Co-Founder and CIO), Dr. Robert Hopkins (Chief Medical Officer), Dr. Christopher Steele (Business Development Officer), and Carrie Zhang (Marketing Officer). Its technical team comprises Dr. Taejun Ko (Head of Project Management), Dr. Averell Gnatt (Senior Biosensor Scientist), Dr. Deyu Liu (Director of Sensor R&D), Dr. Yifeng Shi (Senior NanoMaterial Scientist), Buyu Yeh (Senior Development Scientists), Daniel Watson (Software and Data Analysis Engineer).

“The potential to impact millions of patients globally is what drives us every day.”

Looking Ahead: A Vision for the Future

Dr. Liu envisions a future where NanoBioFab’s technologies become next-gen medical diagnostics tools. The goal is to obtain FDA clearance for their products within the next two to three years and significantly impact wound care and infection management. “My goal is within ten years, Nanobiofab will become a leader in the next-generation diagnostic market,” adds Dr. Liu. “The potential to impact millions of patients globally is what drives us every day.”

NanoBioFab’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of a vision. From a personal tragedy to groundbreaking technological advancements, Dr. Liu and her team are redefining what’s possible in the realm of medical sensing technology. Their story is not just one of scientific achievement but of hope, determination, and the unwavering belief that technology can change lives.

liuxiaonao@nanobiofab.com

“ZAMA’s robust

advisory board features experts from global technology, mental health, and fitness organizations”

ZAMA Health (translated “to exist”) serves as the premier mental wellness hub for athletes and the fitness community. The company was founded by D.C. resident, Brendan Sullivan, based on his experiences as the captain of Yale’s track team, where he witnessed first-hand how severe mental health challenges and eating disorders affected many of his teammates.

This systemic problem extended far beyond Yale, however, as mental health challenges have been rapidly increasing among collegiate athletes. According to a TimelyCare survey of 1,200 college and university students, 70% of student-athletes nationwide are experiencing mental health issues such as stress, anxiety, and depression – a greater rate than that of their non-athlete peers.

Consequently, the National Collegiate Athletics Association (NCAA) has introduced new mandates that require colleges to provide additional resources to teams, such as mental health training for coaches, clinical support for athletes, pre-participation screenings, and proper crisis protocols. ZAMA’s B2B SaaS platform enables athletic departments to meet these requirements affordably and effectively.

The company’s mission is supported by prominent backers, including the premier technology accelerator, Techstars, the leading brain health organization, One Mind, and professional soccer star, DeAndre Yedlin. ZAMA’s robust advisory board also features experts from global technology, mental health, and fitness organizations. Notable advisors include Jen Huberty, the former Head of Science at Calm, and Gene DeFilippo, a veteran in the college athletics industry who previously served as the Athletic Director at Boston College and Villanova.

Extending beyond collegiate athletics, ZAMA also works with fitness companies and gyms, so they can provide additional wellness benefits to their members at a low cost. ZAMA was recently acquired by Volt Athletics, a leader in performance training technology that serves over two million individuals, including thousands of collegiate and professional teams. This acquisition enhances Volt’s AI-powered athlete development platform, making it the premier athlete development company worldwide.

When the acquisition was announced publicly in April 2024, Brendan said “our collective goal is to build the world’s foremost athlete development platform by adding mental health and wellbeing offerings into the Volt Athletics ecosystem. Athletes need more than just operational systems or clinical care–they require a holistic solution.”

Prior to founding ZAMA, Brendan worked as an investment analyst at Goldman Sachs, served as the Chief Revenue Officer for a 40 person consulting firm in D.C., and was the fractional Chief of Staff for two Series C healthcare startups.

Brendan continues to influence the startup ecosystem as the mental health and wellness lead for DC Startup Week and as a volunteer for Yale’s Startup Index, where he helps oversee investments and manage portfolio operations.

An outdoor enthusiast himself, Brendan enjoys spending his free time traveling with friends and family, hiking with his dog Fenway, and engaging in various water sports.

OxiWear Revolutionizing Health Monitoring with Innovation and Perseverance

“I developed OxiWear for myself to demonstrate that I could live a normal life without letting the disease define me.”

In 2019, Shavini Fernando, a visionary innovator and determined entrepreneur, founded OxiWear - a groundbreaking company dedicated to transforming how we monitor and respond to critical health metrics. Diagnosed with severe pulmonary hypertension (PH) due to Eisenmenger Syndrome, Shavini faced life-threatening challenges, including cardiac arrests and strokes triggered by undetected drops in oxygen levels. Refusing to let her condition dictate her life, Shavini set out to create a solution to save her life and empower millions of others facing similar health challenges.

“OxiWear is a wearable pulse oximeter for blood oxygen monitoring during still and motion to give a timely proactive alert when someone’s oxygen levels are dropping below their safe thresholds to prevent hypoxic injuries and ultimately save lives,” Shavini explains.

A Journey Fueled by Determination

Shavini’s journey with OxiWear began as a personal mission. Confronted with the reality of her condition, her doctors advised her to alter her lifestyle drastically. But Shavini, an adrenaline junkie and a dedicated student at Georgetown University, was not ready to compromise. She created the first prototype of OxiWear to prove that she could live independently and continue her education despite the physical challenges.

“I developed OxiWear for myself to demonstrate that I could live a normal life without letting the disease define me.” she recalls. “They had said my issue wasn’t my heart rate but my oxygen levels. Since there was nothing available on the market to address this, I developed OxiWear for myself to demonstrate that I could live a normal life without letting the disease define me.”

The initial success and positive feedback from her doctors spurred Shavini to commercialize her invention. In 2019, she pitched OxiWear at Georgetown’s Bark Tank competition, winning both first prize and the people’s choice award, securing $40,000 in prize money. This pivotal moment marked the official launch of OxiWear.

Innovating for a Better Tomorrow

OxiWear’s innovative approach to health monitoring has garnered significant attention and acclaim. The device, designed as an ear-wearable accessory, offers continuous oxygen monitoring and emergency alerts, providing users with peace of mind and enhancing their safety. Its sleek, modern design ensures it can be worn comfortably and discreetly, fitting seamlessly into the user’s daily routine.

The company’s mission extends beyond individual health monitoring. OxiWear aims to reduce healthcare costs by preventing hypoxic injuries, ultimately saving lives. This commitment to innovation and social impact is evident in the numerous accolades OxiWear has received, including awards from the Leonsis Foundation, CTIA Wireless, and the American Heart Association.

Transforming Lives, One Device at a Time

Since its inception, OxiWear has made a profound impact on the lives of its users. Initially marketed as a wellness device for the fitness market, it has also become a lifeline for patients with chronic conditions. Shavini shares heartwarming stories from users who have regained confidence and independence thanks to OxiWear.

“We’ve received numerous emails and letters from people sharing their experiences. Some have taken their first flight and gone on a trip since their diagnosis. Others are now going to the gym. Many express that they can finally enjoy life with their kids without constantly checking their oxygen levels with a pulse oximeter on their finger,” she reflects.

For Shavini, the true measure of success lies in the positive impact OxiWear has on people’s lives. “A chronic condition should not define anyone’s life. Providing people with the confidence to live their normal lives, change their lives, and ultimately save lives is what excites me the most,” she states.

The Road Ahead: Challenges and Triumphs

Building a startup and bringing a new idea to market is fraught with challenges. Shavini’s journey with OxiWear has been no exception. She acknowledges the hurdles but emphasizes the importance of perseverance and resilience.

“Starting a new business and running with a fresh idea is not easy. When you begin, everyone thinks you’re crazy. For every two ‘yeses’ you get, you’ll receive 80 ‘nos.’ Don’t let those ‘nos’ undermine your confidence; instead, use them as catalysts to become stronger,” Shavini advises.

Despite the setbacks, Shavini’s unwavering determination and adaptability have been vital to OxiWear’s success. She encourages aspiring innovators to remain steadfast in their pursuits, drawing inspiration from every challenge they face.

A Message of Gratitude and Inspiration

As OxiWear continues to grow and innovate, Shavini remains deeply grateful to those who have supported her journey. “I want to thank everyone who helped me, stuck with me and my team, funded us, and believed in us. The entire OxiWear team, who stayed with me through thick and thin. At the same, I also want to thank those who said no to us, as they were the driving force that made us give 200% and helped us get where we are,” she expresses.

OxiWear is a testament to the power of innovation, perseverance, and the unwavering belief in the potential to change lives. Shavini Fernando’s journey is not just a story of personal triumph but an inspiration to all who dare to dream and work tirelessly to turn those dreams into reality.

Innovating PostMastectomy Care

At the heart of Myya lies a deeply personal mission inspired by the life and challenges faced by the Founder and CEO, Jasmine Jones. Witnessing her grandmother’s battle with breast cancer and the subsequent difficulties in finding supportive, well-fitting post-mastectomy bras and prostheses ignited a passion within Jasmine to create a solution that would transform the post-mastectomy experience for women everywhere.

“At Myya, we are revolutionizing postmastectomy care by providing a personalized, insurance-billable shopping experience for bras and breast forms,” Jasmine shares. “Our innovative platform connects women nationwide with certified mastectomy fitters, bringing comfort and dignity directly to their homes.”

From Inspiration to Innovation

The seeds of inspiration bloomed during Jasmine’s grandmother’s treatment when

Jasmine met Dr. Regina Hampton, a breast surgeon, at a breast cancer walk. This chance encounter led to a partnership that would become the cornerstone of Myya’s innovative approach. “When I met Dr. Regina Hampton, we knew that we needed to partner to make a difference in the lives of breast cancer survivors,” she says. Together, they opened the doors of Cherry Blossom Intimates, a groundbreaking lingerie boutique and fully accredited medical center aimed at serving breast cancer survivors with dignity.

In 2020, Jasmine took Cherry Blossom Intimates a step further by designing a collection of postmastectomy bras and prostheses in inclusive sizes and skin tones and relaunching the business under the Myya name. By 2024, the company had fully embraced a remote model to serve survivors nationwide more effectively.

“Today, Myya offers beautiful, comfortable, and practical post-mastectomy care solutions,” she asserts. “Our mission is to empower women, ensuring they feel seen, understood, and celebrated. We believe every woman deserves to feel beautiful and confident, especially after such a challenging journey. By embracing innovation and inclusion, we strive to make a positive impact, transforming the post-mastectomy experience for thousands of women.”

Embracing Change and Telehealth

The COVID-19 pandemic presented Myya with an unprecedented challenge that demanded swift adaptation. The need to pivot was clear, and Jasmine embraced the opportunity to innovate further. “The pandemic pushed us to create a telehealth branch of our business. It was either pivot or fail. I knew it was time to take the leap, and we never looked back,” Jasmine recalls.

This transition allowed Myya to continue serving its customers and expanded its reach, making high-quality post-mastectomy care accessible to women nationwide. The telehealth model enabled personalized consultations and fittings, bringing comfort and dignity directly to the homes of those who needed it most.

The Heart of Innovation

For Jasmine, innovation is not just about technology or products; it’s about making a tangible difference in the lives of those she serves. “Innovation means being the change I wish to see in the world. It begins with me,” she says. Myya’s commitment to inclusivity, personalization, and community support sets it apart in the post-mastectomy care industry.

Myya’s dedication to innovation is evident in its philanthropic efforts as well. The company focuses on early detection of breast cancer, particularly in the Washington, D.C. area, which

has the highest mortality rate for breast cancer in the nation. Through partnerships with local cancer organizations and healthcare providers, Myya is building a supportive network that empowers and uplifts everyone involved. “We are deeply committed to our community, particularly in focusing philanthropic efforts on early detection of breast cancer,” she emphasizes.

As Myya continues to grow, Jasmine remains steadfast in her goal of positively impacting the lives of one million breast cancer survivors.

“That’s a dream that has been on my heart since the first day, and I believe it is absolutely possible,” Jasmine affirms. The company’s innovative approach to post-mastectomy care

and strong community ties position it for a bright and impactful future.

Contributing to the Innovation Ecosystem

Myya’s influence extends beyond individual survivors to the broader community and economy. By creating jobs, collaborating with local suppliers, and fostering partnerships, Myya contributes significantly to the region’s economic vitality. “As we grow, we continue to expand our team and foster local businesses, enhancing the economic landscape of our community,” Jasmine notes.

Through its innovative products, personalized care, and unwavering commitment to

“Our mission is to empower women, ensuring they feel seen, understood, and celebrated.”

community support, Myya is not just a company but a beacon of hope and empowerment for breast cancer survivors. Jasmine’s journey, driven by a personal mission and sustained by relentless innovation, inspires all who seek to make a meaningful impact in their industries and beyond.

In the world of post-mastectomy care, Myya is a testament to the power of innovation, compassion, and unwavering dedication to making a difference.

info@myya.com WeAreMyya myya.com

THE LEADER IN EARLY CHILDHOOD TRAUMA CARE

The Lourie Center exists to help young children and their caregiving adults overcome adversity and live to their fullest potential.

The Lourie Center story is reflected in the heroic stories of our families, like Liliana’s story. Listen to Liliana tell her family’s journey and how The Lourie Center changed her son’s life, her family’s life and helped to “break the curse of generational trauma that has been in her family for generations.”

Who We Are

Adventist HealthCare The Lourie Center for Children’s Social & Emotional Wellness (The Lourie Center), founded in 1982, is named for the late Dr. Reginald Lourie, a distinguished child psychiatrist. Together with leaders in the field of child development, Dr. T. Berry Brazelton and Dr. Stanley Greenspan, and their colleagues, the Center began as a six-year National Institute for Mental Health clinical research study. The study explored the efficacy of identifying and treating social, emotional, and developmental problems in early childhood, birth through age 5.

This landmark research demonstrated the importance of early intervention for healthy social and emotional development in children and the key to strengthening families and building strong parent-child relationships. For more than 40 years, the Center has impacted more

than 100,000 children, parents and families using an evidence-based, attachment-centered, trauma-informed, equity advancing, team-based care therapeutic and educational model. The Center’s specialized, multidisciplinary team provides home-based, clinic-based, and school-based care to children, birth to 12 and their families in the Washington, D.C. region.

Training, Research, & Partnerships

In addition, the Center provides training and consultation services to early childhood professionals across the country, through regional and national partnerships. In the past five years, the Center has advanced the knowledge and skills of more than 1,500 early childhood mental health students and professionals through clinical placements, and best practice trainings through innovative platforms, such as Project ECHO and Noni.

Innovation to Prevent the Lifelong Consequences of Adversity

The Lourie Center is developing innovative programming to better meet the mental health crisis that is impacting our nation’s children. The consequences of ‘doing nothing’ present untold burdens, from the outcomes of a child’s life to its cost impact on business and society.

Adverse Childhood Experiences (ACEs) occur during a person’s most formative years, which has profound and lasting effect on a person’s physical and mental health creating lifelong challenges with learning, socialization, and ability to earn a living. Center for Disease Control research documents that six of the 10 leading causes of death, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers, are linked to untreated adversity experienced in a child’s earliest years.

The Lourie Center’s best practice early intervention model and partnerships have demonstrated proven success in helping children and families overcome adversity to learn and grow within the context of supportive nurturing relationships.

Young Children & the Workplace: Why Companies Care

Research has identified a clear link between the mental health crisis of children and the worsening well-being of their parents, and the significant impact this is having in the workplace:

The Lourie Center hears from parents everyday how stressful their child’s difficulties are, often disrupting their work, including advancement. Employers are increasingly looking to better support their workforce through early childhood supports for working parents.

48% of working parents said their child(ren)’s mental health has impacted their performance at work in some way.

60% of parents who are concerned about their child(ren)’s mental health say it negatively affects their own mental health.

You Can Help: Join Us

The children’s mental health crisis is real. It is also a future workforce crisis and an economic development crisis. Early intervention matters. It is the difference between a life of hope or a life of cumulative consequences.

You are a child’s hope. Join us and help the first years of a child’s life be the foundation for lifelong learning, health, and happiness.

Liliana’s Story

EIS

CREATING A MORE ATTENTIVE LEVEL OF CARE FOR MEMORY CARE RESIDENTS

EIS

(Early Intervention Systems) was founded by two graduates of George Washington University, Nathalya Ramirez as CEO, Krishan Shah as CFO, and current GWU Medical Student Rohan Patil as CTO. The team was motivated to create a digital well-being software platform that could tangibly improve the tracking of Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) for early onset and Alzheimer's residents, allowing caregivers to better assist residents before agitation escalates into angry outbursts and possible negative health outcomes.

The team's personal experiences and observations of caregivers and residents in the memory care environment were the driving force behind the creation of EIS. Rohan, having witnessed patients physically attacking healthcare staff members while working in the Emergency Department, was inspired to develop a solution that could reduce violent actions. Nathalya had to watch her grandmother suffer from cognitive decline and lack of attentive care she should have been provided, while Krishan was impacted by his friend Jeff Borghoff early stage Alzheimer's diagnosis and struggles with agitation and significant decline in day-to-day activities.

Frank Hogan, VP of sales, also observed the challenges caregivers face in keeping up with residents' everchanging states of mind and needs, having watched his uncle suffer from

the advancement of Alzheimer's in his last three years spent in a memory care facility. The team believes that their personal and professional experiences make them the right team to provide caregivers with the tools to accurately track the well-being of elders to ensure aging with dignity and grace.

In addition to the support from mentors, advisors, and family members, EIS has received funding and in-kind prizes from pitch and grant-winning organizations, including UBS, AWS, MIT, Techstars Chicago Accelerator Program, and Draper. The company has also actively engaged with The George Washington University through funding, mentorship, and meaningful partnerships.

EIS offers an innovative digital log that tracks ADLs, behaviors, and other relevant information about the elderly in memory-care settings. The system enables caregivers and

administrators to identify changes in the dayto-day life of their residents, update care plans accordingly, and offer the needed support. The platform also utilizes predictive models and a suggestion feature based on clinically proven proactive interventions that support caregivers in assessing residents' patterns of behavior, improving their quality of life.

The team at EIS aims to become the leader in measuring well-being, predicting health outcomes, and implementing proactive interventions that increase the level of care in healthcare facilities. By offering an easy-touse digital log to track ADLs, behaviors, and other relevant information about the elderly, EIS is revolutionizing dementia care through technology. The team's dedication to ensuring the safety and well-being of memory care residents has led to the creation of a platform that will allow caregivers to provide a more attentive level of care, assuring residents of aging with dignity.

Left to right: Rohan Patil - CTO, Nathalya Ramirez - CEO and Krishan Shah - CFO

Allowing amputees to regain/maintain their active lifestyles

Seamless Transition, headquartered in Arlington, Virginia, is dedicated to transforming the lives of warfighters and Veterans. Led by CEO and Founder Sarah Malinowski, the company’s mission is to introduce groundbreaking prosthetic solutions that go beyond mere functionality, offering unprecedented mobility and freedom to its users.

At the core of Seamless Transition’s innovation lies the Rugged Redemption prosthetic knee. It uses cutting-edge technology designed to seamlessly transition between walking and running. Inspired by the natural movement of the knee, this modernized design minimizes the risk of injuries associated with uneven gaits at high speeds. This provisionally patented prosthetic uses a linkage design, dynamic suspension, and sensors to make this possible.

Rugged Redemption is a versatile prosthetic knee. Unlike traditional prosthetic limbs, Rugged Redemption eliminates the need for multiple devices. Ultimately, reducing longterm medical costs and simplifying the user

“Growing up I was always interested in prosthetics. I knew I wanted to do more than simply use the ones off the shelf. Which sparked my drive and ambition to create my own, and make an impact.”

experience. The retrofit design allows for easy integration with most current prosthetic limbs, promoting a more natural gait and empowering users to regain and maintain their active lifestyles.

Sarah has her bachelor’s in Mechanical Engineering and while in school, she worked part-time at a local prosthetic clinic. Here is where she met remarkable Veteran amputees. They shared with her the limitations of their current prosthetics and all the activities they had to forgo. “I have always had a fascination of prosthetics and after these experiences I knew what I wanted to do, make a prosthetic that mimics our natural leg.” Since then, she has dedicated herself to designing a prosthetic knee possible of such achievements. Most notably, through her Master thesis in Biomedical Engineering at George Washington University.

There is a growing demand for advanced prosthetic solutions among active individuals worldwide. To understand the reality of such a need in current warfare, Sarah ventured through Ukraine in June 2023. In Ukraine

alone, at least 100 warfighters require an above-the-knee prosthetic weekly. Most of these amputees are in their early 30’s. Sarah recalls vividly, “Every amputee that I spoke to smiled immediately when they talked about their hobbies. They ranged from jogging with their dog to gardening to boxing.” The need for such advancements is clear. Due to significant advances in both field and emergency medicine, the direct result leads to more warrior survivors. This includes countless young amputees.

With a full-scale prototype due for completion by the end of June and testing scheduled in July 2024, Seamless Transition is on track to achieve its objectives. There is no better location for this medical device startup than Arlington, Virginia. In addition to a top-notch location, there are undeniably valuable resources and amazing individuals willing to help in every program. Led by CEO Sarah Malinowski and a dedicated team with expertise in medical device technology, business development, and project management, the company is poised to make a meaningful impact, ushering in a new era of mobility and freedom for its users.

JLABS @ WASHINGTON, DC

Accelerating Innovation in the Capital Region

Where the corridors of power intersect with groundbreaking research, JLABS @ Washington DC is a haven of innovation. As part of the global Johnson & Johnson Innovation network, JLABS is more than just a stateof-the-art facility; it’s a thriving ecosystem designed to accelerate life sciences innovation. Since its inception, JLABS has played a pivotal role in fostering the growth of early-stage companies and strengthening the region’s burgeoning biotech sector.

A Nexus of Opportunity

JLABS @ Washington, DC opened its doors in 2021, strategically located at the Children’s National Research & Innovation Campus in Northwest D.C., on the historic site of the former Walter Reed Army Medical Center. This 32,000-square-foot facility provides startups with access to capitalefficient lab space, cutting-edge equipment, and a robust support system. It is a place where entrepreneurs, innovators, and startups in the healthcare spectrum - including pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and health techcan transform their ideas into realities.

“The proximity to federal research institutions, universities, and academic research centers makes JLABS @ Washington, DC an ideal hub for life sciences innovation,” says Rachel Rath, Interim Head of JLABS @ Washington, DC. “We are positioned at the crossroads of scientific discovery and policy, allowing our resident companies to capitalize on the wealth of resources available in the nation’s capital.”

The Power of Partnerships

One of the critical strengths of JLABS @ Washington, DC lies in its collaborative approach. Through strategic partnerships with regional stakeholders like Children’s National Hospital, the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA), and other institutions, JLABS has created a network that supports early-stage companies from inception through commercialization.

“Unlocking the collective power of the global community is key to addressing 21st-century health threats.”

These collaborations are exceptionally vital for initiatives like BLUE KNIGHT™, a joint effort between Johnson & Johnson Innovation and BARDA. Blue Knight aims to stimulate early-stage companies that are strategically aligned to mutual areas of interest between BARDA and the Johnson & Johnson Family of Companies, with a particular interest in multi-use technologies with commercial and preparedness applications. JLABS @ Washington DC serves as the central hub for this initiative, offering residency opportunities and expert programming to stimulate innovation in this critical field.

“We’re proud to support Blue Knight companies through access to the JLABS ecosystem, including modular lab units, office space, shared core laboratory equipment, and business facilities,” notes Rath, who also serves as the BARDA Alliance Director for Johnson & Johnson Innovation. “Our unique offerings, such as fee assistance for access to JLABS and limitedcompetition non-dilutive funding opportunities, are critical in helping companies advance their innovations.”

A Platform for Success

JLABS @ Washington, DC operates under a no-strings-attached model, allowing companies the freedom to partner and collaborate without restrictions. This approach has proven successful, with the site supporting over 55 early-stage companies in just three years. Collectively, these

the Potential of Antibody Drug Conjugates in Oncology.” These events provide a platform for innovators to engage with experts and investors, fostering a culture of continuous learning and collaboration.

companies have raised over $600 million in financing and strategic relationships, fueling their growth and expanding the region’s life sciences ecosystem.

Recent success stories include Nanochon, which raised $4 million in a Series Seed Prime round, and Acclinate, which secured $7 million in a Series A round. Additionally, companies like Astek Diagnostics have forged strategic partnerships with organizations such as MedStar Health, respectively, further validating the impact of JLABS @ Washington, DC.

Driving Scientific Thought Leadership

Beyond infrastructure and funding, JLABS @ Washington, DC recognizes the importance of driving scientific discussions and investor networking. The site regularly hosts panel discussions and symposia, such as the Pediatric Medical Devices symposium in partnership with Children’s National and CobiCure, and a thought-provoking session on “Harnessing

JLABS @ Washington, DC hosts an annual Investor & Partnering Day. The 2024 event connected early-stage companies with investor groups, resulting in over 300 one-on-one meetings. These events are instrumental in helping companies secure the capital needed to advance their research and development efforts.

Expanding Access to Innovation

Recognizing the need for broader access to specialized resources, JLABS @ Washington, DC recently launched a program allowing external innovators to access certain research equipment and instruments at the facility. This initiative aims to support early-stage biotech companies that may not have the resources to invest in high-end equipment.

A Bright Future Ahead

JLABS @ Washington, DC is more than just a place for startups to set up shop; it’s a launchpad for innovation. By providing access to toptier facilities, expert mentorship, and a global network of partners, JLABS is empowering the next generation of life sciences leaders to

tackle some of the world’s most pressing health challenges.

As JLABS @ Washington, DC continues to grow, it remains committed to its mission of accelerating innovation and transforming healthcare. With a focus on collaboration, cutting-edge science, and strategic partnerships, the future is bright for the innovators who call JLABS home.

“Unlocking the collective power of the global community is key to addressing 21stcentury health threats,” says Rath. “JLABS @ Washington, DC is at the forefront of this effort, and we are excited to see what the future holds.”

JLABS @ Washington, DC is not just a part of the capital’s innovation landscape - it’s helping to shape it. Through its unwavering commitment to supporting startups and driving life sciences forward, JLABS is setting a new standard for what’s possible in the world of healthcare innovation.

The Guardians of Health: Mission to Secure the Future

On a quiet morning in August 2020, as the world grappled with the relentless surge of a pandemic, a new force solidified its presence in Washington, DC, with a singular focus: to protect global health by anticipating the next crisis before it even begins. However, this initiative, known as BLUE KNIGHT™, was not born out of the pandemic. Its roots trace back to 2019 when Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS and the Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA) first announced their collaboration in conjunction with the launch of the Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS site opening in Washington, DC. The initiative was conceived with a forward-thinking mission, set before the world knew of the impending crisis, demonstrating a proactive commitment to global health preparedness.

Blue Knight is not your typical public-private partnership. It’s an initiative designed to do more than just respond to health emergencies. Its mission is to stay several steps ahead, identifying potential threats and nurturing innovators who can develop versatile, multi-use solutions with commercial and preparedness potential. In a world where the next health crisis could be just around the corner, Blue Knight has taken on the mantle of a modern-day guardian – one that doesn’t wear armor but wields the power of innovation.

A New Kind of Alliance

The story of Blue Knight begins with two organizations that recognize the power of collaboration. Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS, known for fostering life sciences startups, and BARDA, the US government’s health security agency, joined forces believing the best way to combat emerging health threats was to combine their strengths. Together, they envisioned an initiative to anticipate future crises and activate the global innovation community to respond.

“Blue Knight catalyzes a new community of high-potential early-stage entrepreneurs who are working to improve global health security, which goes hand in hand with the JLABS mission of tackling the world’s toughest health challenges,” says Melinda Richter, Global Head of Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS.

This partnership wasn’t just about pooling resources. It was about creating a platform where the best minds could come together to solve our time’s most pressing health issues. By blending the agility of the private sector with the reach of the public sector, Blue Knight became a beacon of hope for entrepreneurs aiming to make a global impact.

The Entrepreneurs Behind the Shield

At the heart of the Blue Knight mission are the innovators who dare to imagine a world where diseases are prevented before they spread, where health security is as essential as national defense. These are the entrepreneurs who come to Blue Knight with big ideas and the determination to turn them into reality.

“When it comes to addressing current and future health threats, identifying the most promising early-stage companies and giving them the support they need to realize their innovations is a top priority,” says Ashim Subedee, Director of the Catalyst Office at BARDA DRIVe.

Since its inception, Blue Knight has grown from supporting seven companies to more than 47, with more than $1 billion raised in secured and contingent funding. But perhaps more remarkable than the numbers is the entrepreneurs’ diversity – more than half of the companies are led by women and minorities. This inclusivity is not by accident; it’s a deliberate effort to bring a wide range of perspectives to the table because solving global health challenges requires every voice.

Support to Reach Inflection Points

In the world of innovation, timing is everything. For early-stage companies, reaching key milestones can mean the difference between success and failure. That’s where the Blue Knight Resident QuickFire Challenges come in. These competitions offer non-dilutive funding to help companies push past critical inflection points – whether that’s completing preclinical studies, scaling up manufacturing, or securing regulatory approval.

To date, more than $12million of funding has been provided through these challenges. It’s money that goes directly to where it’s needed most, allowing companies to accelerate their progress and bring life-saving technologies to market faster.

Building a Global Network

While the Blue Knight hub is located within JLABS @ Washington, DC, its reach is global. Through its network of JLABS locations, Blue Knight connects entrepreneurs with experts, investors, and collaborators worldwide. The goal is simple: to build a community that can respond to health threats no matter where they arise.

One of the ways Blue Knight fosters this global network is through its programs and symposia. These events bring together thought leaders and innovators to share knowledge and explore new solutions. It’s a collaborative approach that has drawn thousands of participants from across the globe, all united by a common goal – protecting the world’s health.

But the influence of Blue Knight doesn’t stop with established professionals. The initiative is also committed to inspiring the next generation of innovators. In 2023, Blue Knight partnered with BARDA to host the SPRINT Program, a STEM outreach initiative that gives high school students a firsthand look at science and public health careers. For many of these students, the experience was transformative – opening their eyes to the possibility of a future where they could be the ones developing the next breakthrough technology.

“Blue

Knight is a testament to the

The Road Ahead

As Blue Knight continues to evolve, its mission remains as urgent as ever. The threats to global health are not going away; they’re multiplying. But with every new entrepreneur that joins Blue Knight and every breakthrough that emerges from its labs, the world becomes a little safer and a little more secure.

For those who are part of Blue Knight the work is personal. It’s about more than just technology or funding: it’s about making a tangible difference in the world. As Rachel Rath, BARDA Alliance Director at Johnson & Johnson Innovation – JLABS, puts it: “Blue Knight is a testament to the power of collaboration in driving innovation and safeguarding public health.”

The Blue Knight initiative invites applications from innovative companies aiming to make a significant impact in the field of health security. Each application is evaluated by reviewers from Johnson & Johnson with input from BARDA. The process ensures we select next generation solutions that align with both the Johnson & Johnson and BARDA missions, while also helping to advance end-to-end solutions that demonstrate the potential to address technological gaps and fulfill unmet need. Blue Knight seeks to support companies developing solutions across five critical pillars for preparedness: enabling technologies that support development, detecting potential threats, preventing infection and/or transmission, treating infections and disease, and facilitating equitable access to and supply of medical countermeasures.

And so, the story of Blue Knight continues – diligently and with unwavering resolve. Blue Knight will continue to source the best and brightest science that is strategically aligned with both Johnson & Johnson and BARDA and champion the current Blue Knight companies that are making tangible progress in advancing health security.

CHAPTER EIGHT

PREVIEWIMAGE COMMUNITY ORGANIZATION

So Kids SOAR (SKS)

WHAT IS ONE THING SHARED BY ALL OF THE INNOVATORS WITHIN THESE PAGES? THEIR DESIRE TO IMPACT THIS WORLD.

One of the most fulfilling ways to feel that impact is by watching the beneficiaries of that impact excel in their lives – and making their own ripple of change in the world.

Like a successful rocket launch into space, So Kids SOAR (Formerly Dreams For Kids DC) understands the many components our youth with disabilities need to flourish. The name So Kids SOAR (SKS) not only reflects their refreshed vision and expansion (the organization rebranded in 2022), but there is also a meaningful duality to the word SOAR. Within the acronym, each of the letters serve a purpose - to take you on a journey through the organization. Within all of their programming, the goal for SKS’ youth is to Strive, Own, Achieve and ultimately Realize their full potential.

“Kids with disabilities often already experience isolation due to the lack of adaptive options for engaging with other children,” said Glenda Smith, the Executive Director of So Kids SOAR who has served at the helm of the organization for 11 years.

“When the pandemic started, we pivoted to ensure that our kids would continue to experience the sense of community and support they get through our programs. What we didn’t realize is how vast our community was, and could be. With a clear goal of looking to achieve what’s possible, So Kids SOAR was born.”

So Kids SOAR is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit that has offered in-person clinics to youth in the Greater Washington DC community for over a decade. Since its founding in 2009, SKS has served over 1,200 youth, thanks to a dynamic community of 2,200 volunteers, dozens of corporate partners, an all-volunteer Board of Directors that also serves as auxiliary staff, and the generosity of hundreds of donors. It offers free in-person and digital programs like athletic clinics (from waterskiing to yoga) and social activities (proms and talent shows); and mentorship opportunities for youth aged 4-30. In 2017, Glenda conceptualized a new program named “Your Path to Success”, an extensive mentorship program that empowers older youth with disabilities to learn valuable life skills and secure gainful employment.

Your Path To Success is the program that truly shows the trajectory of what SKS’ participants are capable of when given the right tools (and mentors) to succeed. The program concept derived from the need to provide young adults with disabilities with resources to expand and grow after their time in SKS’ adaptive clinics.

Over the course of three-months, the program offers participants both skillbuilding workshops on topics such as resume development, interviewing, and formal e-mail communication as well as off-site group community service projects, site visits to places that employ those with disabilities, and opportunities to network.

Participants walk away with meaningful relationships, new confidence, and real skills that allow them to pursue independence and employment. And most importantly, make THEIR mark and impact on the world. The employment-population ratio for persons with a disability has slowly increased from 17.8% in 2011 to 19.1 % in 2021 (https://www.bls.gov/ opub/ted/2022/19-1-percent-of-people-with-adisability-were-employed-in-2021.htm)

A large proportion of persons with a disability –about eight in 10 – were not in the labor force in 2018, compared with about three in 10 of those with no disability. “We want to contribute to economic growth by utilizing a sector of the population that has trouble finding employment… and giving them the training and resources they need to succeed,” said Smith. Your Path To Success is SKS’ answer to helping these young adults find personal and financial independence.

As a mother of a vivacious 3-year old girl and energetic 1-year old boy, Glenda understands

the need for proper youth programming all too well. Her family has given her a new drive and passion for helping her SKS youth see their potential to fruition.

“It’s been incredible to see how much our kids have grown through our programs,” said Smith. “Getting to witness that growth is one of the greatest joys of my job. Our kids have learned valuable new skills, realized their individual abilities, and gained remarkable self-confidence. We have evolved so much together. I learn just as much from them as they do from me.”

Smith has been a one woman show since 2011, driving all of the programming with support from volunteers and the Board of Directors. But it doesn’t seem that she will be the only staff member for long. “The most exciting development over the past year is that we have carved out funding to hire our own Your Path To Success (YPTS) graduates. We first test ran this idea in 2021 by hiring our 2020 YPTS graduate Patrick to teach adaptive cooking clinics to his peers and younger kids with disabilities. We are hoping to hire one of our 2022 graduates to be a programs officer starting in 2023. It really just shows you how full circle our mission has come and what can happen when you invest in youth.”

As for the future? Smith plans to take the nonprofit’s impact international. She aspires to build on the global reach it achieved through the virtual programming introduced in 2020 by expanding its in-person programming presence to new U.S. cities and abroad over the next 5-years.

About So Kids SOAR: So Kids SOAR, a not-forprofit section 501(c)(3), provides life-changing programs that empower youth with physical and developmental disabilities to Strive, Own, Achieve and Realize their potential. We enable participants to SOAR through a suite of adaptive programming that includes athletic, recreational, and skill-building activities. The self-confidence and skills gained through these programs inspire each child to realize that their disability will not prevent them from fulfilling their potential.

Kierra Johnson Programs Coordinator

Visit our website and follow @sokidssoar on Instagram and Facebook to learn more.

Kierra Johnson, a 2022 graduate of SKS’s vocational program ‘Your Path To Success,’ was hired as the organization’s part-time Programs Coordinator in January 2023. In her first year with SKS, she’s achieved remarkable success, including television appearances, obtaining her driver’s license, and completing an advanced statistics professional development course at Montgomery College. Before joining SKS, Kierra graduated from Montgomery College in 2019 and continued her education at St. Mary’s College of Maryland, earning a bachelor’s degree in math in 2022. Kierra, a former college basketball athlete who played for Montgomery College and St. Mary’s, also holds a gold medal from the Special Olympics USA Games. Due to her outstanding performance, SKS is thrilled to announce that Kierra will be transitioning to a full-time role as the SKS Programs Analyst in January 2024, reflecting her dedication and contributions to the organization.

OUR ALL-VOLUNTEER BOARD OF DIRECTORS SERVES AS OUR GOVERNING BODY AND EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE, GUIDING US IN ALIGNING OUR ACTIVITIES WITH OUR OVERALL MISSION AND STRATEGIC VISION. THANKS TO THEIR GUIDANCE, SKS HAS DEVELOPED SUCCESSFUL PROGRAMS, PROCESSES, AND IS POISED FOR GROWTH. YOUR VISION AND DEDICATION MADE SKS INTO ONE OF THE LEADING ORGANIZATIONS IN THE DMV PROVIDING PROGRAMMING FOR YOUTH WITH DISABILITIES.

Rachel Merritt

Outgoing Board Chair and Emeritus Advisory Council Founder, Senior Business Process Analyst

Hometown: Miami Beach

Joined: April 2013

Favorite SKS Memory: Towards the end of a Cooking Clinic with the Peruvian Brothers, a participant’s mother approached me with tears in her eyes. She told me her son is a very picky eater and refuses to eat vegetables and new foods, resulting in increased health concerns. During the clinic, her son willingly and independently ate a quinoa and chicken dish the participants learned to prepare and told her he wanted to cook at home. He was empowered to try new foods and learn new skills with his friends in a safe and fun environment. It was the first time his mother was hopeful her son would overcome his food aversions.

Christi Main

Incoming Board Chair, Director of Global Consulting Operations, Unit 42 by Palo Alto Networks

Hometown: Washington D.C.

Joined: 2011

Favorite SKS Memory: The opportunity to watch the kids grow through our programs, feeling empowered and more confident.

Will Cole

Incoming Board Chair and Director, Capital Markets Risk Management, Fannie Mae

Hometown: Rockville, MD

Joined: 2022

Favorite SKS Memory: Being a mentor every year for Your Path To Success.

Chloe Stewart

Vice President, Bespoke Sports & Entertainment

Hometown: Atlanta, GA

Joined: 2015

Favorite SKS Memory: One of my fondest memories was our first-ever cooking clinic at Scarlet Oak in SW, DC. had just joined the organization and was expecting to help with registration and admin, but it was a small clinic, and Glenda needed me in a volunteer capacity. was so fortunate to be paired up with Frankie – we had the most incredible time making omelets and having fun in the kitchen. It has been a joy to watch Frankie grow throughout the years at our programs – and looking forward to many more!

Seye Iwarere

General Counsel, Patent Attorney

Hometown: Silver Spring, MD

Joined: 2015

Favorite SKS Memory: Leading the adaptive soccer clinics.

Kaushik Rath

Senior Vice President, Realtor, Compass

Hometown is kind of hard because of all the moving - but I think I’ll go with NYC as I lived there for nearly 20 years.

Joined: 2023

Favorite SKS Memory: I loved the prom! But I also really enjoyed the soccer day.

Jay Chesley

US Office of Personnel Management

Hometown: Columbia, MD

Joined: 2018

Current Role: Chair Parents Committee

Current Professional Role: Federal Investigator (Department of Defense)

Favorite SKS Memory: The first time I volunteered for SKS at waterskiing. I had the pleasure of partnering with Jonah. His attitude, joy, and determination inspired me to get more involved with SKS. Just thinking about him inspires me even today.

Rachel Goldschmidt

Preschool Teacher, Edlavitch DC Jewish Community Center

Hometown: I moved from New Jersey to Washington DC NW, now call DC my home

Joined: 2017 as a volunteer mentor with YPTS, and 2023 to the Board

Favorite SKS Memory: The first prom volunteered at.

Kiel Chesley

GovCon Professional, NJ3Q

Hometown: Columbia, Maryland

Joined: 2015

Current Roles: Fundraising Chair

Current Professional Role: Principal at NJ3Q Technology

Favorite SKS Memory: Working with my friend and participant, Richard, during the inaugural Your Path to Success mentorship program.

Senior Vice President, Lincoln Properties

Hometown: Chevy Chase, MD

Joined: 2022

Current Professional Role: Commerical Real Estate ProfessionalLincoln Property Company

Favorite SKS Memory: Leading the adaptive lacrosse clinics.

Stoddert Nibley

+ADD IMPACT NETWORK

IS A COMMUNITY-DRIVEN INITIATIVE THAT AIMS TO EMPOWER INDIVIDUALS, NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATIONS, AND COMMUNITIES.

The foundation of our mission lies in the collective capacity building of local non-profits, and the engagement of community members through events like Bike to the Beach, a renowned national cycling series that raises funds for autism and disabilities.

This initiative began as a small gathering of friends who shared a passion for cycling and a drive to make a difference in their community. Their solution to the lack of a car for transportation evolved into an annual tradition that grew in size and impact each year. Today, the event has grown into a platform that unites countless non-profits in a common goal.

What began as a 100+ mile bike ride to the Delaware Shore, led by Ben Dalley and Joey Schmitz, has become a country-wide phenomenon. The brothers’ commitment to the cause inspired others to get involved, with Joey’s brother Tommy being the first to join in on the ride. As it grew in popularity, Bike to the Beach attracted people from all backgrounds, including cyclists of all ages and skill levels, educators, service providers, parents, nonprofits, and corporate supporters.

Despite the varied backgrounds and abilities of those involved, everyone shared a deep commitment to raising awareness and funds

for autism and related disabilities. Through their annual ride, these individuals not only contributed to a worthy cause but also demonstrated the transformative power of community. What began as a simple idea to reach their destination, evolved into a powerful force for good that impacted their community for years to come.

As the event grew in popularity, the founders realized that they were doing more than just hosting a bike ride - they were building a community of support for families and individuals affected by autism, and they were also building a support network for local nonprofits to scale and grow. They decided to formalize their efforts by creating a nonprofit organization to better serve local nonprofits supporting those with autism and disABILITIES by providing opportunities collaboration, capacity building and community.

From this need, grassroots growth and passion for impacting those who serve the broad spectrum of needs within the autism and disABILITIES community, the +ADD (“Autism and Developmental Disabilities”) Impact Network was born, with Bike to the Beach as its flagship event series.

+ADD Impact Network’s mission is simple but powerful: unlock the limitless possibilities within individuals, organizations, and communities. We champion the strength and unique abilities of every individual.

To achieve this, the +ADD Impact Network supports local nonprofit organizations in four key areas: funding, collaborative solutions, operations support, and capacity building for sustainable operations.

Through its events and partnerships with corporate sponsors, +ADD Impact Network raises funds to support small and local nonprofits that are working to improve the lives of people with autism and disABILITIES. But the organization is more than just a fundraising machine - it also provides coaching, HR support, and volunteer engagement to help these nonprofits build their capacity and expand their services.

+ADD Impact Network is focused on building a scalable system of support that includes cyclists, community members, nonprofits, service providers, and corporate sponsors. They all work together to make a difference in their communities, fueled by a deep commitment to improving the lives of people with autism and disABILITIES.

But what makes +ADD Impact Network truly special is the people behind the organization. They are a passionate and dedicated team of individuals who refuse to let obstacles stand

in their way. Their core values of support, collaboration, and progressiveness guide everything they do, making them an inspiring and innovative force for change.

At the +ADD Impact Network, adaptation is key. They constantly evolve and take risks to meet the changing needs of their community. Whether you are a cyclist seeking a fun and rewarding ride, a nonprofit in need of support and resources, a service provider looking to connect with other professionals, or a corporate sponsor eager to make a positive impact, +ADD Impact Network supports you in reaching your goals.Impact Network welcomes you with open arms.

Join them in their vision to increase access to resources and services for people with autism and disABILITIES. Together, we can create a brighter future for everyone on the spectrum.

Left to Right: Matt Butterman, David Lamay, Terri Neal, Hector Garcia, and Benjamin Dalley

MIDTOWN YOUTH ACADEMY

Fighting for youth through boxing and books

In establishing Midtown Youth Academy in 1977, Golden Gloves champ Eugene “Thunder” Hughes began with a make-shift boxing ring and a noble goal: draw at-risk youth away from the mean and drug-infested streets of Washington, D.C., and guide them to a successful path in life.

“We let them knock themselves out in the gym,” he would say. “After they get that frustration out of them, we work with their minds.”

That vision – call it boxing and books – has stood the test of time. Over four decades, Midtown has served as a community sanctuary, training the bodies and minds of thousands of teenagers in the District’s urban core.

Walking through the doors of Midtown, learning what makes a champion in the ring, at school, and in life are not disconnected. They all require discipline, grit and hard work – plus a lot of support and encouragement from adult mentors.

From the early days, Hughes and his co-workers partnered with community leaders and recruited volunteers to invest in the future of young people. They helped give instruction, not only in boxing but also an array of after-school, weekend and summer activities, including tutoring, music lessons and even sewing instruction.

Among its notable successes, Midtown counts boxing champions Sugar Ray Leonard and former Richmond Police Chief Marty Tapscott as its alumni. Below the radar, countless others who signed up with Midtown went on to complete high school and beyond, despite formidable economic and social challenges.

“I was out on the street, didn’t know which way to go, selling nickel bags up here on 14th and Chapin,” Glenn Jordan said of his youth during a 2017 radio interview. But he recalled how he and a buddy then found their way to Midtown. “I could hear the punching bag and Gene’s voice… I stayed.” Today, Jordan is a city transit employee.

For most of its existence, Midtown was based in the so-called 14th Street corridor in an old rowhouse. But as that area gentrified and its two-story facility needed extensive repairs, Midtown moved during the pandemic to a new neighborhood in the District, which has pressing needs and four times the number of youth than in Midtown’s previous location.

According to Census Bureau zip code data, Midtown’s new community is home to more than 67,300, nearly one-fourth under the age of 20. The area is rich in diversity – Blacks and Latinos comprise about 75% of the population, many of them immigrants. One out of seven children are living in homes under the federal poverty line.

Midtown’s strategy, though, remains the same: Use boxing and the gym as a vehicle to attract and engage with youth, and keep them off the streets by providing a rich platform of innovative activities that will be life transforming.

Midtown’s academic offerings align with the sport of boxing under a T.E.A.M. concept, including Tutoring, Entrepreneurship, Arts and Technology, and Mentorship, along with legislative advocacy and other practical skills.

Then there’s boxing of course. It may be an individual sport but takes a TEAM to be successful. Midtown’s experienced trainers provide personalized programs for each boy and girl, whether the prize is to win a Golden Gloves tournament, to build endurance or just to stay out of trouble.

As Hughes, who passed away in 2018 once said, “In order to break the pattern and to enable young men to develop self-discipline and goal-oriented activities, I recruited the sons of several narcotics addicts to become my boxing team. Boxing is a discipline that encourages respecting the body as a Temple.”

Today, Midtown is managed by Gloria Lee, who volunteered at the gym and assisted with the after-school programming for 20 years before becoming the executive director.

Coach: Charles Price

Founder: Eugene “Thunder” Hughes

Board of Directors: Darien Headen, Alex Shaw, Khalia Jackson, Ronald Simms, Gloria Lee, Patrick Kibbe

A Vision Realized

The Anacostia Business Improvement District (BID) is dedicated to fostering a thriving, safe, and vibrant commercial and arts district in the designated BID area. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, it ensures that local businesses have the resources they need to succeed while promoting economic development that aligns with the unique character and needs of the community.

The BID operates with the belief that a wellsupported and vibrant business and arts community is essential for Anacostia’s overall health and prosperity. By providing resources to businesses and facilitating thoughtful economic development, the BID aims to create a sustainable environment where commerce and creativity can flourish, ultimately benefiting all district residents, businesses, and visitors. Established in 2012, the Anacostia BID has since marked a significant milestone for Washington, D.C.’s southeast quadrant.

Mission-Driven Innovation

The mission of the Anacostia BID is straightforward yet profound: to support a clean, safe, and vibrant community. This is achieved by supplementing the services

provided by the D.C. government, enhancing street cleaning, sponsoring special events, and advocating on behalf of stakeholders.

The BID’s priorities are clear: attracting and retaining commercial office and retail tenants, increasing sales, creating jobs, and boosting occupancy rates in commercial properties. Additionally, the BID aims to utilize technology for training and marketing and foster a community where local residents and visitors become returning customers.

The Anacostia BID has worked tirelessly to ensure that economic development is inclusive and reflects the community’s needs. These efforts have fostered a vibrant commercial and arts district while maintaining the area’s cultural and historical essence. This dedication ensures that Anacostia remains a dynamic and welcoming place for residents and visitors. The Anacostia BID’s mission is to drive positive change and growth in one of D.C.’s most historically significant neighborhoods.

A Thriving Cultural Hub

One of the pivotal moments for Anacostia BID was its designation as the Arts & Culture

District of Washington, D.C., by Mayor Muriel Bowser. This recognition, known as ‘Art to Go-Go,’ highlights the district’s dedication to celebrating all forms of art, particularly go-go, the official music of the city. This initiative has transformed Anacostia into a vibrant cultural hub, attracting visitors and supporting local businesses. “This recognition has enhanced our visibility and provided us with additional resources, strengthening our dedication to honoring the district’s vibrant cultural heritage,” Kristina explains.

Councils and Programs

The Anacostia BID leads a series of innovative programs and working groups to enhance the community:

• Art to Go-Go: Designated by Mayor Muriel Bowser, Art to Go-Go is Washington, D.C.’s official Arts & Culture District in Historic Anacostia. This initiative celebrates and integrates various art forms into the community, preserving the vibrant culture of local residents and businesses. It also nods to go-go music, the heartbeat of Washington, DC, symbolizing the area’s rich cultural heritage. The programming includes events, public art, professional development, transformational placemaking, public safety, and transportation.

• Arts, Cultural & Entertainment Advisory Council: This council nurtures the Anacostia Arts and Entertainment District, promoting community involvement through arts, entertainment, and cultural activities.

• Integrated Safety and Security Council (ISSC): Comprised of safety professionals, local businesses, and community stakeholders, ISSC focuses on preparedness, prevention, management, and education around safety and security.

• Food Access Consortium: This initiative ensures inclusive access to necessities for a sustainable, healthy life, particularly for those most vulnerable to food insecurity.

• Small Business NGO Group: Formed in 2018, this group conducts needs assessments, analyses data, and develops action plans to support small business development.

• Pathways to Careers Alliance: This initiative creates job opportunities for the under and unemployed in Ward 8, breaking down barriers and providing sustained employment support.

• Restaurant and Late Night Alliance: An association of Ward 8 businesses that remain open past 8 pm, focusing on marketing, promotion, and support.

Innovation at Its Core

Innovation at the Anacostia BID involves blending tradition with forward-thinking strategies. The BID leverages technology to enhance business operations, improve safety, and increase community engagement.

Technology is crucial in the BID’s initiatives, from smart waste management systems to digital outreach platforms. Kristina explains:

“Innovation means continuously finding creative and effective ways to support our community, preserve its unique cultural heritage, and foster economic growth.”

“Innovation means continuously finding creative and effective ways to support our community, preserve its unique cultural heritage, and foster economic growth.”

Supporting Local Entrepreneurship

The BID places a strong emphasis on supporting local entrepreneurs. The BID empowers local talent by providing resources, training, and opportunities, fostering sustainable economic development. “We believe empowering local talent is key to sustainable economic development,” says Kristina.

Community Engagement and Collaboration

The spirit of Anacostia BID is deeply rooted in community engagement and collaboration. The BID co-creates solutions that address specific challenges and aspirations by actively listening to residents and business owners. This approach ensures that efforts are inclusive and impactful.

“Our innovative spirit is rooted in collaboration with residents, businesses, and stakeholders,” Kristina highlights.

A Legacy of Impact

Kristina’s leadership has been a transformative force for the Anacostia BID. Her strategic initiatives, partnerships, and dedication to innovation have driven significant economic development and community engagement.

“Under her leadership, the BID has executed strategic initiatives, cultivated key partnerships, and fostered a culture of innovation, transforming the Anacostia BID,” she reflects.

Looking Ahead

The future of Anacostia BID is bright. The organization is excited to continue building upon its foundation as Washington, D.C.’s official Arts & Culture District. “We look forward to deepening our engagement with Anacostia’s community. Our commitment to innovation remains strong,” Kristina asserts. The BID aims to create a district where art, commerce, and community intersect to create opportunities, inspire creativity, and preserve cultural legacy.

“Ultimately, we strive to create a district where every individual can thrive,” she concludes.

The Anacostia Business Improvement District is a testament to the power of community-driven innovation. Through its dedication to cultural preservation, economic growth, and community empowerment, the BID is shaping a brighter, more inclusive future for Anacostia.

The Napkin Network

LINDSAY GILL IS THE FOUNDER OF THE NAPKIN NETWORK, A NON-PROFIT ORGANIZATION THAT STRIVES TO HELP MOMS IN NEED WITH FREE AND EASY ACCESS TO BASIC BABY ESSENTIALS.

Headquartered in D.C., the social network of moms spans all 50 states with the help of Lindsay’s specialization in social media, strategic communications, fundraising, and the natural inclination for moms to help other moms in need. Unfortunately, children are expensive and not everyone is in the same position to provide for their children. We may all be in the same storm of “motherhood” but not the same boat. We all weather this journey with different access to support, and The Napkin Network believes it is important to collectively help so no baby has to suffer, and no mom has to choose between a meal or a clean diaper.

In less than three years, the organization has hosted hundreds of events promoting the well-being of moms in their communities. Every event has a dual purpose: to bring moms together, and to collect unused baby items and repurpose them back into the community. The Napkin Network partners with underfunded, but well-established non-profit organizations already rooted deep in the community and donates all items to those groups. The Napkin Network plays on their strength of bringing moms together and effectively acts as a middleman, identifying the needs and gaps, and collecting those items where needed.

During the height of the formula shortage crisis that impacted Moms around the country, The Napkin Network organized large scale formula drives that garnered the attention of the national media and was highlighted on MSNBC, The Washington Post, and BBC News. Mrs. Gill has been invited to roundtable discussions with senators and members of congress, has been interviewed by various news sources on the highs and lows of the motherhood journey, and continues to build ongoing partnerships with businesses and people who support not only the need to mission to help mothers, but the desire to make the motherhood journey less isolated.

In their first two years, The Napkin Network donated over 100,000 diapers, 500,000 wipes, thousands of cans of formula, and countless other baby essentials such as diaper rash creams, new clothing, strollers and car seats. Currently, The Napkin Network has eight drop off locations around the

Washington, D.C. area and is all volunteer-run by moms. All the donated items are stored as needed but donated as quickly as possible to ensure items are used in real time for real life needs. The Napkin Network strives to increase funding so they can assist moms who are not local to the Washington. D.C. area and desires a pantry or open storage area where moms can come and pick up items on a monthly basis as needed. In the end, the goal of The Napkin Network is to bring moms together to create a social, and impactful, community that makes life a little easier.

THE DC WHEELS

FOUNDED IN 2007, THE DC WHEELS SKATEBOARD TEAM AND CHARITY ORGANIZATION USES THE POWER OF SKATEBOARDING TO CHANGE AND SAVE LIVES.

Their mission is to overcome longstanding stereotypes that surround skateboarding by helping others, reinforcing positivity, and supporting a healthy lifestyle.

Also known as the Skate Crusaders, they have handpicked talent from across the metropolitan region and dedicate themselves to meaningfully help those in need. The team is comprised of girls/ women and boys/men ranging in ages from seven to seventy-one, from diverse backgrounds. The wheelers place of gathering is just a few blocks from the White House. A city block of marble called Freedom Plaza. It's home for all local skateboarders in D.C, Maryland and Virginia area.

The team is committed to help out the community, the homeless, at-risk youth and the elderly throughout the year. In the spring and summer time they perform in parades and at malls showcasing their skills. On Earth day, the crew celebrates the annual Trash-A-Thon by traveling via skateboards with grabbers in hand picking up trash throughout the city.

In the fall, riders also skateboard 47 consecutive miles to annually raise funds and awareness for a different cause. Thus known as the Skate-A-Thon. In the brisk winter Skatin’ Santa and The DC Elves ride all throughout downtown Washington, D.C. supplying the homeless with food, clothes and money during the holidays. The organization has a global reach partnering with Dream House Uganda where they have supplied their youth center with skateboards and clothes.

With the support of community members, The DC Wheels consistently surpasses its financial and in-kind donation goals. The team gives great thanks for partnerships of past, and those of future. To learn more about this organization you can follow them at:

Bridging Gaps, Reuniting Families and Ending Recidivism

“We want to create a footprint in this community that kicks in doors to give access to folks like me.”

When Marcus Bullock was just 15, he faced a life-altering challenge. Arrested and sentenced to eight years in adult maximum security prison for carjacking, he found himself in a place where hope seemed distant. Two years into his sentence and struck with darkness and despair, his mother rescued him from the dark with simple letters. “Those letters saved my life!” Marcus recalls, reflecting on the promise his mother made to send him a picture or letter every day for the remaining six years of his imprisonment. This consistent connection to the outside world through his mother’s letters became a lifeline for Marcus, providing a vision for a future beyond the prison walls.

Innovative Solutions to a Persistent Problem

Marcus’s journey from incarceration to innovation is nothing short of inspiring. As the Founder and CEO of Flikshop, Marcus has channeled his experiences into creating a platform that connects incarcerated individuals with their families through personalized postcards. Each Flikshop postcard symbolizes love, hope, and resilience, filled with words of encouragement, emojis, and even confessions of yearning.

“We want to create a footprint in this community that kicks in doors to give access to folks like me,” says Marcus. “People who come from neighborhoods like mine or have been in prison cells like I was, they want to come home to a thriving community and economy. When we’re

thinking about building innovative solutions, it’s very important to learn how to jump out of the window and build a parachute on the way down,” Marcus advises.” This mission is at the heart of Flikshop’s innovative approach to combating recidivism.

From Incarceration to Innovation: The Genesis of Flikshop

Marcus’ path to founding Flikshop began while in maximum security prison. “By the time I served the first two years, I became very dark and depressed,” Marcus recalls. His life took a pivotal turn during a visit from his mother, Ms. Bullock, who made a promise that would ignite the spark of hope he desperately needed.

“Marcus, I’m going to write you a letter or send you a picture every day for the remaining six years of your sentence,” his mother vowed. True to her word, Ms. Bullock sent daily letters and photos, creating a lifeline for Marcus that extended beyond the prison walls, providing a window to the outside world and a vision for a life beyond incarceration.

This profound experience of receiving love and support through letters became the foundation for what would later become Flikshop. Marcus realized that the simple act of staying connected to loved ones could transform the lives of incarcerated individuals, just as it had transformed his own. The idea of Flikshop was born out of this understanding: a platform designed to help others maintain connections with their families, providing hope and reducing the sense of isolation that often accompanies incarceration.

Flikshop allows users to create personalized 4” x 6” full-color postcards featuring photos and messages, which are then printed and shipped directly to their loved ones in prison. This innovative approach leverages technology to bridge the communication gap in the prison system.

By transforming his personal experiences into a powerful tool for connection, Marcus has created a platform that supports incarcerated individuals and works towards ending recidivism. Flikshop proves that innovation’s light can shine even in the darkest places.

Redefining Communication in Prisons

Flikshop is more than just a postcard service; it’s a revolutionary communication tool. The Flikshop app allows users to send 4” x 6” full-color postcards, complete with personal photos and messages, directly to their incarcerated loved ones. With over 3,700 correctional facilities approving these postcards, Flikshop ensures that families can maintain their bonds despite physical separation. The postcards are shipped within 48 hours, providing a timely and consistent means of connection.

Security and Innovation Hand-in-Hand

Understanding the stringent security measures within correctional facilities, Flikshop goes the extra mile. Their machine learning technology scans each postcard for inappropriate content, ensuring safety and compliance with facility regulations. This dedication to security does not compromise the personal touch that makes each Flikshop postcard a cherished memento for its recipient.

Empowering Through Education and Employment

But Flikshop’s innovation doesn’t stop at communication. Marcus and his team are passionate about addressing the larger systemic issues contributing to high recidivism rates. “We’re excited about innovating around how people think about the future of work,” Marcus explains. “We’re introducing companies to the talent from these marginalized communities.”

The Flikshop School of Business (FSB) epitomizes this commitment. Founded in 2016, FSB offers justice-involved individuals and their families access to courses that prepare them for careers in technology and entrepreneurship. Partnering with esteemed institutions like Georgetown University, Princeton University, and major corporations such as Google and Slack, FSB provides free education, ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder personal growth and development.

A Vision for the Future

Looking ahead, Marcus has ambitious plans for Flikshop. “We’re going to bring 100,000 formerly incarcerated people into the tech-based and

knowledge-based skills industries,” he states, reflecting a goal that is as inspiring as necessary. This vision extends beyond mere employment; it is about creating a sustainable future where formerly incarcerated individuals can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.

Flikshop Angels and The Neighborhood Flikshop also ensures that the financial burden of staying connected does not fall solely on the families. Through initiatives like Flikshop Angels, credits are provided so families can send photos for free. The Neighborhood program connects community organizations and secondchance employers with incarcerated individuals, fostering stronger and more equitable communities.

As Flikshop continues to grow and evolve, its impact on the lives of incarcerated individuals and their families becomes more profound. Through technology, education, and a steadfast commitment to ending recidivism, Flikshop is not just changing lives but rebuilding communities and redefining the future for those who need it most.

Mintwood Strategies

THE INNOVATORS OF UNOFFICIAL WASHINGTON

There is official Washington you see on TV, which features the National Mall, Congress, and the White House, and there is unofficial Washington, which is home to 700,000 citizens who are denied the ability to electorally participate in official Washington. Mintwood Strategies has carved out a niche in the media landscape of both official and unofficial Washington. In a Venn diagram of activism and public relations, Mintwood Strategies holds space in the small area where they overlap.  “Traditional public relations is about getting a story into the media. From drafting a press release to calling reporters and pitching the story with the hope that the story gets picked up by journalists. But activists don’t always get their story in the press,” says Adam Eidinger, the founder of Mintwood Strategies. “They toil away at changing the world, but often are overlooked and their efforts ignored. Mintwood Strategies began as a lesson on how to upend traditional public relations: be an activist first and the media will follow.”

From anti-globalization demonstrations to drug policy reform to raising the minimum wage to having a giant Burning Man-inspired bonfire on the grounds of the Washington Monument, Mintwood Strategies has navigated the bureaucracy of electoral politics, National Park Service, and over time, drafted and passed more local laws via ballot measures than any single firm in unofficial Washington. Axios recently put Mintwood Strategies’ founder Adam Eidinger on the top of their list of unofficial Washington’s power players.

Less than half of the states in the United States

Taken April 28, 2021 on the National Mall, with the U.S. Capitol in the background. The 51 foot inflatable joint says “Biden Cmon Man!” and has been used at demonstrations to pressure President Biden to reform cannabis laws. This prop, with different messaging on the sides of the joint, has been used since 2016. It has appeared outside of the White House, the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia, DC’s Funk Parade, the National Cannabis Festival, NYC Cannabis Parade, the Maryland State Capitol, Boston Freedom Rally and many places in between

Taken November 2017 on the Washington Monument grounds of the National Mall at the Mintwood Strategies organized annual vigil “Catharsis on the Mall.”  This Burning Man-inspired event took place every year from 2015 to 2020. The National Park Service remarked that the physical permit, which contained information about all the artwork, was their second largest permit after the presidential inauguration

allow their citizens to create their own laws, overturn laws, or remove elected officials from office. Mintwood Strategies is the only organization in Washington that successfully worked to do all three.

• 2014: Mintwood Strategies spearheaded the first law on the East Coast to legalize the cultivation, distribution, and possession of cannabis with ballot Initiative 71

• 2018: Mintwood Strategies was able to oversee the collection of over 35,000 signatures from registered DC voters in 6 days in order to thwart the DC Council’s attempt to overturn a ballot Initiative 77

• 2019: Mintwood Strategies organized the recall of a corrupt DC Council member, who ultimately resigned

• 2020: Mintwood Strategies was behind the first law on the East Coast to decriminalize entheogenic plants and fungi with Initiative 81

• 2022: Mintwood Strategies facilitated the passage of Initiative 82, which will eliminate the subminimum wage for tipped workers by 2027

All of the ballot initiatives Mintwood Strategies instigated passed by at least 70%. This could not be done without a thorough understanding of the laws, the aptitude to organize workers, the ability to fundraise, and the wherewithal to raise awareness about these issues through earned media.

The overarching strengths of Mintwood Strategies are creativity, persistence, and patience. Doing the same style of protest, demonstration, or press conference in a town where these happen on a daily basis will not yield many news articles. In a crowded media landscape, creativity is the best way to generate press. From hoisting a giant 51’ inflatable joint outside of the White House to giving away over 10,000 joints at Donald Trump’s inauguration to organizing “Joints For Jabs” in New York City and Washington, DC, Mintwood Strategies has excelled in creative approaches to raise awareness about important social issues.

One creative demonstration will not change entrenched interests, but photos and videos taken at that demonstration can be a persistent reminder that support for reform exists.

Today every news article about cannabis and Congress or the White House features a photograph from a demonstration organized by Mintwood Strategies over the last decade. From a cannabis flag waving over the White House to the aforementioned 51’ joint displayed across the National Mall, the stock photos Mintwood Strategies has generated live on as a constant reminder.

With over 25 years of experience in Washington, DC, Mintwood Strategies knows that nothing happens overnight. Change takes years, sometimes generations. Patience is the final key to Mintwood Strategies success.

In 2002, shortly after Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps switched to using hemp oil in their infamous soap, the George W. Bush administration sought to remove hemp oil from all food and body care products.

Mintwood Strategies organized a bagel taste test to show that the U.S. government allows Americans to eat poppy seeds, which contain trace amounts of opiates, so why not allow hemp? It was successful and hemp was allowed to remain in food and body care products, but American farmers were prevented from growing hemp. In 2009, Mintwood Strategies organized a planting of hemp seed on DEA’s

Taken December 5, 2018 outside of the John A. Wilson Building, Washington, DC’s City Hall.  The custom trailer was designed to look like a vote shredder to highlight the DC Council’s repeal of ballot Initiative 77

lawn in Arlington, Virginia, resulting in arrests and numerous news articles. Three years later, with the help of Mintwood Strategies, the CEO of Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps locked himself inside of a custom-built jail cell with twelve hemp plants. It took the fire department three hours to extricate him from the jail, but landed the action on the front page of the Washington Post’s Metro Section. Two years later, in 2014, Congress legalized the domestic cultivation of hemp in the United States and now Dr. Bronner’s Magic Soaps is able to utilize hemp seed oil grown by American farmers. Without a lot of patience, persistence, and creativity, hemp might still be illegal in the United States.

Sometimes the work within unofficial Washington bubbles up to official Washington, but this can only be done by those skilled enough to do the hard work. Mintwood Strategies is one of those groups. 2448 Massachusetts Ave. NW Washington, DC 20008

Taken July 1, 2020 during the signature collection period for the Campaign to Decriminalize Nature DC, known officially as Initiative 81. During the height of the coronavirus pandemic, Mintwood Strategies oversaw the hiring and training of over 150 petition circulators who collected enough signatures in 60 days to put the initiative on the ballot. Mintwood Strategies worked with members of the DC Council to change how petitions could be signed and collected, which resulted in the first effort in DC to allow the signing of ballot access petitions in the comfort, privacy, and safety of one’s home. Mintwood Strategies mailed every household with a registered voter the petition and nearly 10% mailed them back

Tel: (202) 733-4640

Mintwood Strategies founder, Adam Eidinger

MAKING COMMUNITY A COMMON ENTERPRISE

The Harwood Institute for Public Innovation equips people, organizations, communities and networks with tools to bridge divides, build capacity and tackle shared challenges. By Turning Outward, people enable communities to become a collective force for change.

Catalyzing Hope

The Harwood Institute exists in a long tradition of catalytic organizations throughout American history that have worked to strengthen and advance our society to create a more hopeful future for all. Since its founding in 1988 by Richard C. Harwood, it has created breakthroughs in addressing the most critical societal challenges and strengthening America’s civic culture.

Its work is defined by a community-driven practice developed by President and Founder Richard C. Harwood from decades of on-the-ground experience, rigorous research, and constant innovation.

The Harwood approach has spread to all 50 U.S. states and 40 countries worldwide. It is rooted in a practical philosophy of civic faith. This holds that placing people, community, and shared responsibility at the center of our shared lives will create a more just, fair, inclusive, and hopeful society for all. To make civic faith a reality, society needs to ‘Turn Outward,’ which is a mindset and posture of using the community – not our conference rooms – as reference points for creating change.

The Harwood Institute’s task is to get society on a more equitable, fair, just, inclusive, and hopeful path forward.

Fault Line Communities

The Harwood Institute works deeply with a select group of communities to demonstrate that Americans have the public will and ability to bridge divides and come together to address challenges. Individually, these communities represent the different fault lines in society. As a whole, they demonstrate society’s innate capacities to change how we work together and create a new trajectory of hope by applying the Harwood approach.

The Harwood School

The Harwood School makes its road-tested practices available to everyone, everywhere. The Virtual Public Innovators Labs teach community leaders to ‘Turn Outward.’ The Catalytic Community Guide Program trains individuals to use catalytic mindsets and tools to guide their communities. And the CIRCLE of Catalytic Funders is a cohort of national funders using the Harwood approach to accelerate and deepen their impact in communities.

The Harwood Studio on Community

The Harwood Studio on Community – established to explore new ideas and innovate around complex civic challenges – is its engine for innovation, writing, and special research projects.

A Growing Network of Public Innovators

The Harwood Institute is committed to growing and supporting its national network of public innovators by constantly innovating and refining tools and resources to help community leaders effectively grow civic faith.

National Thought Leadership

Rich’s most recent book, Unleashed: A Proven Way Communities Can Spread Change and Make Hope Real for All, illustrates the impact of The Harwood Institute’s strategies over time by highlighting nine different communities across the U.S. and how they created a chain reaction using the Harwood approach. In addition, reports like ‘Civic Virus: Why Polarization is a Misdiagnosis,’ articles, podcasts, media appearances, and newsletters offer alternative messages that welcome Americans back to public life and seek to grow civic faith.

About The Founder

Having founded The Harwood Institute in 1988 at the age of 27, Rich has dedicated his career to revitalizing the nation’s hardest-hit communities, transforming the world’s largest organizations, and reconnecting institutions like newsrooms and schools to their role in society. He has been recruited to solve some of the most difficult problems of our time, including being called into Newtown, Connecticut, after the Sandy Hook

Rich is an inspiring, sought-after speaker who regularly keynotes major conferences. He appears regularly in the media in outlets such as MSNBC’s Meet the Press Daily, NPR, CNN, Forbes, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The Washington Post. He is also the author of six books, scores of articles, and numerous groundbreaking reports.

Rich often says: “Communities move forward when enough people intentionally choose to step forward, turn outward toward one another and set in motion meaningful actions that spread like a positive contagion.”

Elementary School massacre. Thousands of community leaders, public officeholders, foundation and corporate executives, clergy, journalists, and government officials use his approach to drive community-led change.

CHAPTER NINE

INNOVATION IN URBAN PLANNING & REAL ESTATE

The Power of Modern Technology In Home Improvement and Real Estate

“Curbio is a trusted and endorsed real estate concierge service.”

DRAFT

Curbio is revolutionizing the real estate sector by making home improvement a seamless, modern experience for agents and clients. As the nation’s leading pay-at-closing contractor, Curbio enables agents to prepare homes for sale without upfront costs, enhancing marketability and success.

In a changing industry, Curbio delivers unmatched transparency and reliability, specializing in swift, quality home preparations. Its cuttingedge technology and professional team ensure projects are completed on schedule with top-tier craftsmanship, providing peace of mind and significant time savings.

Curbio’s turnkey approach and innovative pay-when-you-sell model have made it the go-to contractor for thousands of top real estate professionals. Trusted by agents from over 800 brokerages, including eXp Realty, RE/ MAX, HomeServices of America, and Compass, Curbio operates in more than 50 markets, leading to a future where efficiency and dependability are guaranteed.

From Dream to Execution

Since its inception in 2017 by Rick Rudman, Curbio has revolutionized home improvement for real estate agents and their clients. Rick, the visionary President and CEO, drives Curbio’s mission to provide a seamless solution for getting homes market-ready. “Curbio is the most trusted and endorsed pre-listing home improvement provider in real estate for a reason,” Rick asserts. “Home repairs and improvements are integral to real estate transactions. Updated, move-in-ready listings sell faster and at higher prices. Our mission is to ensure real estate agents have a smooth, fully-managed home improvement experience, especially when their reputation and transactions are at stake.”

The All-In-One Advantage: The Curbio App

Traditionally, obtaining estimates for home repairs and updates involves extensive back-and-forth with contractors, taking weeks or even months. Curbio identified the need for quick pricing to expedite home sales and enhance the client experience. The result is a tool that provides instant home improvement and repair pricing within seconds.

The Curbio App offers immediate, market-specific pricing and direct access to professionals ready to complete work on schedule. With a few taps, agents receive instant quotes for pre-listing projects like painting, landscaping, and more.

This app also converts lengthy home inspection reports into client-friendly summaries with market-specific repair pricing. Agents can use these for negotiation or contracting with Curbio, with no payment required until closing. Chief Product Officer Darren Stewart states, “Curbio is setting new standards with upfront and transparent pricing, challenging an industry notorious for hidden costs.”

Beyond estimates, the Curbio App provides peace of mind with realtime project tracking. Stakeholders can manage improvements without frequent site visits. A dedicated Curbio Project Manager gives frequent updates directly to agents and clients. In an industry plagued by unreliable contractors, quality concerns, and delays, Curbio sets a new standard in home improvement and real estate readiness.

A Real Estate Agent’s Go-To Contractor for Every Listing

Every home needs work before hitting the market, and every real estate agent needs reliable partners to get it done. “If the home is being sold and is represented by a real estate agent, Curbio will tackle any work necessary to get it ready, with no minimums or maximums tied to our pay-at-closing model,” says Rick. “We have completed over 5,000 projects ranging from under $500 to over $800,000. Every listing is unique, and we handle everything from simple repairs to whole-home makeovers.”

Curbio is a crucial partner for agents needing a fast, efficient, and dependable contractor. Chief Revenue Officer Norm Weissberg underscores their unmatched efficiency: “Real estate agents build their business on their reputation, the solutions they provide, and the experience they deliver.”

In a competitive real estate landscape, agents must enhance their services to provide exceptional value. Norm adds, “Having a tool that offers immediate quotes for pre-listing repairs and improvements and helps navigate the home improvement landscape is invaluable. Entrust your project to our dedicated manager, freeing you to focus on your real estate business. Your clients will enjoy fast, dependable service, exemplary results, and no payment required until the deal closes.”

A Responsive Team That Delivers Every Time

Curbio understands that time is essential in the real estate market. Specializing in pre-listing home updates, Curbio’s team is ready to start work immediately, helping agents meet their clients’ selling goals.

Aaron Glines, a California-based Curbio project manager with over 20 years of construction experience, emphasizes the importance of a reliable team. “I’m only as good as my contractors are. It’s crucial to have trade partners who take pride in their work and adhere to our quality standards,” he explains.

Beyond his expertise, Aaron focuses on building lasting relationships. “Part of my job is to build relationships with real estate agents and homeowners and help them achieve their project goals,” he says. These relationships require time and patience. “When I meet a client, I try to understand what matters most to them. Once I have that understanding, I can deliver what

they need.” A key aspect is being available. “As a project manager, one of the most important things we can do is be there for homeowners and Realtors. Sometimes, it’s as simple as answering your phone and listening to their concerns,” Aaron notes.

Curbio works alongside real estate agents as partners to deliver the best results for their clients, ensuring a successful and seamless experience.

A Team That Cares

CEO Rick Rudman and his family have long supported Interfaith Works, a non-profit serving over 35,000 people annually. Raised in Montgomery County, MD, Rick has always prioritized giving back.

Interfaith Works’ Priscilla’s House, a long-term living solution for elderly women experiencing homelessness, had been used for 18 years without updates. Recognizing the need for an improved facility, Curbio stepped in.

Curbio renovated Priscilla’s House free of charge, updating bathrooms and the kitchen, replacing appliances, flooring, painting, landscaping, and deep cleaning. After the renovation, Curbio volunteers assembled new furniture and added finishing touches.

“As a growing company, Curbio is responsible for giving back to the communities in which we operate. Updating IW Priscilla’s House was a perfect fit. We welcome opportunities to use our home improvement skills to help our community,” said Rick.

DRAFT

Award-Winning Service

In 2023, Curbio’s exceptional performance earned numerous awards, highlighting its industry excellence and commitment to employee wellbeing. CEO Rick Rudman received the Alumni Excellence Award for EnTERPreneurship and was named an RISMedia Newsmaker.

Curbio’s technological innovations earned a spot on the Housing Wire Tech 100. Its growth was recognized by Deloitte Technology Fast 500™ (No. 328), Inc. Magazine Top 5000 (No. 1467), and Washington Business Journal’s Fastest Growing Companies (No. 25). It was also celebrated as PropTech Breakthrough’s Overall Home Improvement Platform of the Year and included in the Northern Virginia Technology Council Tech100.

Curbio’s positive work environment was acknowledged by Inc. Best Workplaces 2023, and it received multiple Comparably awards for Best CEO, Best Compensation, Best Perks and Benefits, Best Work-life Balance, and Best Leadership Team. These accolades affirm Curbio’s leadership in innovation, growth, and employee satisfaction.

A Culture of Support

Curbio fosters a supportive company culture with a comprehensive benefits package prioritizing employee well-being and satisfaction. Standout benefits include unlimited PTO for work-life balance, free health benefits, stock options, and 401k matching for long-term financial security.

Curbio enhances employee well-being with Talk Space and Head Space subscriptions for mental health, paid maternity and paternity leave, and twice-yearly in-person meetups to foster team cohesion. These benefits reflect Curbio’s commitment to a positive, inclusive company culture.

At the forefront of innovation, Curbio revolutionizes real estate, home improvement, and technology. Their REfresh Virtual Conference equips real estate professionals with cutting-edge strategies and insights through educational sessions and networking opportunities with industry experts like Coach Michael Burt, Glennda Baker, and Sherri Johnson. The conference highlights the latest tools and trends, positioning agents at the forefront of solutions-driven real estate practices.

Curbio’s revolutionary approach and technology-driven solutions are not just transforming homes; they’re redefining market-ready properties. Embrace the future of real estate with Curbio, where every project is a step toward a stress-free, successful home sale.

Testimonials

Darice Eppinger REALTOR® Keller Williams, Philadelphia, PA

“When I became an agent, I wondered, ‘How am I going to position myself as a Realtor?’ I wanted to be unique. Discovering Curbio was a game-changer. I started using it in my listing presentations, unaware of the extensive range of projects they could handle - everything from power washing to staging and roof work. Curbio can efficiently take care of all my needs with just one call. Along with other community partners, Curbio helps me set up my clients for tremendous success.”

“True story: I lost a $1.8 million listing because my competitor offered a concierge service, and I did not. The home needed improvements, and I couldn’t match their service.”

Pascale Mercier REALTOR® eXp Realty, San Diego, CA

Tiffany White Home Seller, Chicago, IL

“When my father passed away, I had to sell his home as the executor of his estate. It was a challenging role, but my Realtor and I decided to work with Curbio. I was elated to learn about Curbio’s pay-at-closing model; the final product was amazing. Knowing that Curbio was on the job allowed me to focus on other important matters while still preparing the home for sale. Curbio truly was a lifesaver, saving me time and bringing in more money in the end.”

Tel: 844-908-5061 curbio teamcurbio CurbioHQ curbiohq

WA

“For me, real estate is about helping people reach their goals and treating them with respect. Many buyers would have overlooked my client’s home in its current state, so I called in Curbio to help prepare it for sale. Pre-sale updates are nothing new but can be a hassle, often falling on the agent. I loved having a Project Manager from Curbio oversee the work I would have otherwise had to manage. With Curbio’s help, I could focus on winning listings and promoting my business instead of managing home improvement projects.”

About Curbio:

Curbio is the leading pay-at-closing contractor working with real estate agents to get homes ready for sale reliably and without hassle. Curbio has modernized home improvement with an easyto-use mobile app and a five-star project management team that streamlines project work and communication while eliminating the delays and uncertainties that have made home improvement so frustrating, especially for agents and home sellers. Our turnkey approach and pay-when-you-sell model have made Curbio the most trusted contractor for real estate agents and brokerages nationwide, including eXp Realty, RE/MAX, HomeServices of America, Long & foster, and many more. Curbio operates in more than 65 real estate markets across the US.

Danan Powell REALTOR® Compass, Seattle,

Building Sustainable, Attainable Communities

Changing the way we live – and build our homes and lives – is no mean feat. That is precisely what iUnit sets out to do. It is a visionary real estate development/tech start-up spearheading a revolution in sustainable housing. Founded by Brice Leconte, iUnit is a trailblazer in merging cutting-edge technology with sustainable building practices to build what they ambitiously describe as the ‘electric car of housing.’

“We are building sustainable communities, where cutting-edge technology intersects with sustainable building practices,” says Brice Leconte. This forward-thinking ideology translates into iUnit’s ambitious mission: creating attainable, sustainable communities at the forefront of the smart grid revolution.

“A manifesto for the future of sustainable living.”

By harnessing smart technologies, iUnit’s residential solutions aim not only to alleviate the utility grid load but also to decentralize the energy grid. These communities aspire to be NetZero, and even NetPositive, pioneers in an era where buildings generate power and feed it back into the grid.

From the ground up, iUnit developments integrate energy-efficient mechanics such as heat pump HVAC, water heaters, solar production, and battery storage into their design. The result is an internal microgrid designed to efficiently manage and distribute power generated within the community. But it doesn’t end there. iUnit’s vision takes the sustainable model further.

“Generating Power,” states Brice. His vision sees iUnit playing a crucial role in the new SmartGrid, creating communities that operate as MicroGrids with the capacity to generate and store their own energy. “Building MicroGrids” - it’s not just a phrase; it’s a manifesto for the future of sustainable living.

An interesting side effect of this model is the incredible energy efficiency it promotes. “We have a dated energy grid that is essentially designed and sized for about a couple hours of a couple of days of yearly peaks, usually in the summer,” Brice points out. iUnit’s MicroGrid-ready buildings aim to change that.

Innovation is nothing without practical application, and here is where iUnit excels. Its solution is a range of modular units, from urban studios to suburban cottages. Current projects include a five-story affordable housing community in Loudoun County and a cottage community in Shenandoah and Jefferson County. These developments are built with factory precision, minimizing waste and promoting optimal conditions for materials, creating higher efficiency and a more sustainable process.

Partnering with the Department of Energy’s National Renewable Energy Lab, iUnit ensures its energy-efficient initiatives are bold and scientifically sound. One of iUnit’s modular units has resided at the NREL campus for seven years, undergoing countless tests to optimize its energy efficiency.

However, iUnit knows that the battle for sustainable living is not fought by technology alone. It requires a team approach where the residents play an active role. “Help make our SmartUnits NetZero,” Brice urges.

He emphasizes the need to educate residents about their energy consumption and provide the right incentives. “We can do a good job building an energy-efficient building, but without resident engagement and help, the results will always be limited,” he shares.

Through innovation, collaboration, and a steadfast commitment to a sustainable future, iUnit is driving change in Washington – and beyond. In the hands of trailblazers like iUnit, the future of housing looks not only sustainable but also innovative and attainable. “That is the goal of this company, to solve this problem and build a solution that will create MicroGrid-ready buildings,” says Brice. As we chart the course of innovation in Washington, iUnit stands out as a beacon of a sustainable future.

iUnit is a true pioneer on the frontier of smart, sustainable living. Brice Leconte and iUnit are innovators, game-changers, and forward thinkers daring to redefine the boundaries and reshape the future.

Email: info@iunit.co

Tel: 703-867-1549

44679 Endicott Drive, Suite 300 Ashburn, VA, 20147, U.S. iunit iunit.co

Building the Future of Urban Living

Redbrick LMD is reshaping Washington, D.C.’s skyline and redefining urban living. This organization is at the forefront of innovation and sustainability, transforming the region’s real estate development landscape. With a focus on long-term societal trends and a commitment to community, Redbrick is not just constructing buildings; it’s crafting legacies.

A Visionary Approach to Real Estate

Redbrick LMD’s philosophy is rooted in the belief that responsible development and value creation are not only complementary but essential. As one of the largest private landowners in Washington, D.C., Redbrick has a development pipeline of approximately 8 million square feet, including 4 million in opportunity zones. “Our philosophy is simple - connect investor capital to compelling real estate development projects with sustainability, economic opportunities, and health and wellness features that far exceed other buildings in the D.C. metropolitan area,” shares Co-Founder and Managing Partner Thomas Skinner. “Redbrick LMD is at the forefront of sustainable design, development, construction, and operations in the United States. Our team is gathering inspiration from around the world and incorporating innovative solutions to maximize efficiency and futureproof our buildings.”

The company’s projects, such as the transformative neighborhoods at the Navy Yard, the Bridge District, and St. Elizabeths, embrace the trends of sustainability and health and wellness. By aligning with societal, demographic, and technological trends, Redbrick aims to maximize the efficiency and operation of its developments. The Redbrick LMD team considers itself to be unapologetic advocates of clean energy, environmental responsibility, and healthy living spaces, with sustainability at its strategic core.

Pioneering Sustainability in Construction

This firm is setting new benchmarks in sustainable construction, with more than ten buildings designed to achieve Zero-Carbon standards. These projects are pursuing International Living Future Institute (ILFI) and LEED

“Redbrick LMD is at the forefront of sustainable design, development, construction, and operations in the United States.”

and increasing access to affordable housing. Opportunity Zone investing is a unique investment vehicle that combines tax incentives with the chance to be part of a city’s revolution, facilitating positive change in underserved communities.

Innovation: The Catalyst for Growth

A clear vision for the future drives Redbrick’s innovative approach to real estate development. The company communicates this vision internally, aligning the entire organization toward achieving its goals.

“Having studied economics with the late great Nobel Laureate Robert Solow, I view innovation as transforming creative concepts into tangible outcomes that improve efficiency and effectiveness or address unmet needs,” Skinner shares. “Innovation is not a single leap forward but a series of continuous improvements. It is an iterative process as optimizing one element of a system can more often than not result in a need to reoptimize another element.”

Five years ago, the company’s commitment to decarbonization set a longterm objective to design a CLT (cross-laminated timber) residential building that could achieve net-zero carbon certification at a cost comparable to a concrete structure. Today, Redbrick LMD is just months away from achieving this goal, placing it in an industry-leading position.

Looking Ahead: A Legacy of Innovation

Platinum certification, placing Washington, D.C., on the map as a leader in reducing carbon emissions. It evaluates, utilizes, and tracks construction materials and techniques to reduce embedded carbon emissions by more than 30%. The company is currently constructing the largest multifamily building in the world to seek Net Zero certification, a testament to its commitment to decarbonization.

Redbrick employs state-of-the-art energy systems in its buildings, reducing operational energy by over 40% compared to the 2021 D.C. multifamily median. The holistic approach to decarbonization optimizes design, construction, and operational systems, pushing the envelope on a reduction-first approach.

Community Engagement: The Heart of Redbrick LMD

Redbrick’s commitment to community engagement is the cornerstone of its success. “Centering community is key in our formula for success. This means deeply listening to understand the vision and values held by neighbors,” emphasizes Lindsay Morton, Vice President of Community Engagement and Corporate Impact. The company works closely with community and faith leaders, neighborhood groups, and elected officials to ensure its plans are inclusive and aligned with community goals.

The company’s focus on community includes creating job and career pathways, partnering with local businesses, providing missing resources,

Redbrick’s future is bright, with a clear path to develop transformative neighborhoods that showcase the future of urban living. “It is incredibly rewarding to have the opportunity to leave a long-term legacy in the city one calls home,” Skinner says. The company is also exploring the possibility of fostering an innovation district on a portion of the land it owns or controls, further contributing to the innovation ecosystem locally and nationally.

“We have encountered many people who have questioned our direction. And then, when one finally achieves one’s goals, everyone looks to jump on the bandwagon or say it was obvious all along,” Skinner reflects. His final message is a powerful reminder to “stay true to oneself and one’s vision.”

Redbrick LMD is more than a real estate development company; it’s a catalyst for change, fostering sustainable and inclusive communities in Washington, D.C. Through its visionary approach, commitment to sustainability, and deep-rooted community engagement, Redbrick is paving the way for a future where urban living is not just about structures but about enhancing the quality of life for all. Redbrick is a testament to the power of vision, perseverance, and the belief that responsible development can transform cities and lives.

Skinner adds: “By embracing the future, we bring a sense of mission and purpose to our stakeholders’ daily lives (employees, customers, and local communities).”

Bridging Divides: Transforming Washington D.C.

Where the echoes of history and the pulse of modern life intersect in Washington, D.C., a groundbreaking project is taking shape: the 11th Street Bridge Park. Led by Scott Kratz, Senior Vice President of the non-profit organization Building Bridges Across The River and partnering with the District Department of Transportation, this innovative endeavor is transforming an old freeway bridge into the city’s first elevated park.

“We are building the 11th Street Bridge Park – a once-in-a-generation new civic space that is the first elevated park in Washington DC. The Bridge Park will literally and metaphorically bridge long-divided neighborhoods and stitch together the nation’s capital,” says Scott, encapsulating the endeavor’s mission to bridge long-standing divides and foster community resilience.

Community at the Core

The 11th Street Bridge Park demonstrates the power of community-driven development.

Informed by over 1,000 meetings with local residents, the park is designed to reflect the needs and aspirations of those it serves. “The

emphasizes Scott. This inclusive approach ensures that the park features amenities that resonate with the community, including an environmental education center, a 250-person outdoor river amphitheater, public art installations, an interactive playspace known as “Mussel Beach,” kayak and canoe launches, and urban agriculture gardens.

Innovating for Equity and Inclusion

At its core, the 11th Street Bridge Park is about more than just creating a beautiful space; it’s about fostering equity and inclusion. The project’s equitable development plan, launched in 2015, is a cornerstone of this mission. The plan includes a Ward 8 Home Buyers Club that has helped 153 renters become homeowners, the establishment of the Douglass Community Land Trust with over 260 permanently affordable units, and workforce training programs that have provided construction jobs to over 250 local residents and supported small businesses and entrepreneurs with technical assistance, loans, and cash grants. “We are extending the life of this original federal investment to create an iconic new space that will bring together residents who otherwise might not connect,” asserts Scott.

A vital aspect of the 11th Street Bridge Park’s mission is its Equitable Development Plan. This comprehensive strategy ensures that long-time residents can remain in their neighborhoods

“The

Bridge Park is for, by, and with the community.”

and benefit from the park’s development. “By centering the project with local residents, we have created a national template for how to invest in under-invested communities without displacing the same residents we are trying to serve,” Scott asserts. To date, the equitable development plan has invested over $92 million in nearby neighborhoods, matching the park’s construction costs.

Collaboration and Innovation

Collaboration has been a critical driver of the 11th Street Bridge Park project’s success. The project regularly partners with the District of Columbia government to pilot and scale innovative strategies. For instance, the team helped stand up the Douglass Community Land Trust, which included creating a community advisory board, raising millions for early property acquisition, and setting up a separate non-profit. “We spent three years standing up the Douglass Community Land Trust, a key request by local residents to put decision-making power back in the hands of local residents.

across North America, from Dallas to Toronto. These projects are learning from the Bridge Park’s strategies to build their own anti-displacement plans and foster community resilience. “We are currently advising nearly a dozen similar projects across North America on how to build their own anti-displacement plans,” Scott explains.

Addressing Critical Needs

During the pandemic, the Bridge Park team demonstrated its commitment to addressing critical community needs. Partnering with three placebased non-profits, the Bridge Park launched the largest privately funded unconditional cash transfer program ever attempted in the US, distributing $5,500 each to over 650 families, weekly groceries, and monthly dry goods. This initiative provided crucial support during an unprecedented crisis based in the premise to trust the community to make their own decisions.

The Power of Trust

The journey of the 11th Street Bridge Park is deeply rooted in trust. By placing decision-making power in the hands of local residents, the project has built a strong foundation of trust and ownership. “Change moves at the speed of trust,” reflects Scott. The community’s input shaped every element of the park, from its programming to its design. This collaborative approach ensures that the park meets residents’ needs and fosters a sense of ownership and pride.

A New Landmark for Washington, D.C.

Located on the piers of the old 11th Street Bridge, the park will serve as a vibrant space for recreation, environmental education, and the arts. Bound by the Washington Navy Yard on one side and the National Park Service’s Anacostia Park on the other, the Bridge Park will be a destination for some, a pedestrian or bicycle route for others, and for the city, an iconic new archway across the Anacostia River. The park’s design, developed through extensive community input and collaboration, includes various features that cater to diverse interests and needs.

National Impact and Recognition

The innovative approach of the 11th Street Bridge Park has garnered national attention. The project advises nearly a dozen similar initiatives

Looking to the Future

The excitement is palpable as the 11th Street Bridge Park moves towards its public opening in the first half of 2027. “After ten years of working with residents at every step, we are breaking ground later in 2024. We can’t wait to walk across the Bridge Park in a few short years and realize the community-driven vision,” smiles Scott. The park promises to be a space where residents from all walks of life can come together, connect, and thrive.

A Message of Hope and Unity

Scott’s message is one of hope and unity. “Martin Luther King Jr. instructed us to build bridges, not walls. Let’s think big. Act with intention. Put the community at the center. You will do great things,” he says. This ethos is at the heart of the 11th Street Bridge Park, a project that embodies the power of community, collaboration, and innovation. The 11th Street Bridge Park is transforming not only the physical landscape but also the social and economic fabric of Washington, D.C. By fostering equity, inclusivity, and collaboration, the Bridge Park is creating a model for community-driven development that can inspire other cities and communities. As the project progresses, it promises to be a space where residents can come together, connect, and thrive, building a brighter, more inclusive future for all.

Source: OMA+OLIN

CHAPTER TEN

PREVIEWIMAGE INNOVATION IN FOOD & BEVERAGE SERVICES

PROXY FOODS INC.

Feeding

the Future

Washington, D.C., is a bustling food and beverage innovation hub. Proxy Foods Inc. stands out for its groundbreaking technology and profound mission to reshape how we think about and create food. Founded by Panos Kostopoulos, a visionary who migrated from Athens, Greece, with a dream to revolutionize food systems through biotechnology and artificial intelligence, Proxy Foods is more than a company – it’s a movement.

Proxy Foods’ pursuit is straightforward, shares Panos: “We introduce Food & Beverage companies to the era of AI recipe formulation.”

Panos’s mission began with a pivotal moment that occurred during his chemical engineering studies, when he started living with Enzo, a Black Labrador. Influenced deeply by the companionship he felt with Enzo, he became dedicated to the advancement of animal welfare and food ethics, leading him to pivot his career towards addressing global food challenges. “Behind every product is a creation, and behind every creation, a recipe,” says Panos, underscoring the philosophy that drives Proxy Foods’ innovations.

Pioneering with AI in the Kitchen

“As we strive to feed 8 billion people, it is imperative that we produce healthier, delicious, ethically sourced, and sustainable food through better recipes.”

Proxy Foods has developed a first-of-its-kind digital toolbox that leverages AI and Machine Learning to transform the food and beverage industry. This platform empowers R&D teams with tools for recipe generation and management, flavor, sensory, and cost analytics, nutritional value analytics, and more. By simplifying the complex, often cumbersome process of recipe formulation – which traditionally relies on slow, trialand-error methods – Proxy Foods enables companies to develop superior products with unprecedented speed and accuracy.

“Innovation amplifies the stature of these giants, enabling us to see even further,” remarks Panos, quoting Isaac Newton to highlight the transformative impact of their work. The company’s AI-driven platform is designed to meet the rapidly evolving consumer needs and trends, allowing for quick adaptation to market demands and exploring new flavor profiles.

Challenges Transformed into Opportunities

Despite the high failure rates of new food products and the extensive time typically required for development, Proxy Foods has set new industry benchmarks. “We are at the ideal moment to harness AI effectively, transforming data into insights almost instantaneously,” Panos states, emphasizing the readiness of the technology to make a significant impact.

The journey hasn’t been without challenges, but each hurdle has only strengthened the team’s resolve. Winning the first prize of $30,000 at Bark Tank, a prestigious entrepreneurship prize, marked a critical turning point for Proxy Foods, validating their innovative approach and attracting key investors and mentors like Ted Leonsis, a Greek-American billionaire who quickly became a guide and mentor to Panos.

Building a Sustainable Future

The core of Proxy Foods’ mission is to accelerate product innovation by empowering creators, changemakers, food and beverage companies to develop better recipes, faster. “As we strive to feed 8 billion people, it is imperative that we produce healthier, delicious, ethically sourced, and sustainable food through better recipes,” Panos explains. The focus on sustainability is not just about improving food production techniques but also about enhancing food’s nutritional quality and environmental impact.

This mission extends beyond the laboratory and into the global community. Proxy Foods is deeply embedded in the dynamic ecosystems of both Washington D.C. and Athens, contributing to local and international discussions on food sustainability and innovation. Proxy Foods is actively shaping the future of food through partnerships with educational institutions and participation in global food conferences.

A Global Impact Driven by Local Roots

The strategic position in D.C. offers Proxy Foods unparalleled access to networks of influential individuals, regulatory bodies, and a vibrant food scene that fuels continuous innovation. This location is fertile ground for developing groundbreaking products that address the myriad challenges facing our food systems today.

Panos concludes with a powerful message that encapsulates the ethos of Proxy Foods: “In this game of life on this moving blue rock, our wisest strategy is to maximize value for all stakeholders; to enhance the collective welfare of all living beings.” This statement reflects the company’s commitment to innovation and underscores its broader vision. In this world, every recipe advances the well-being of all life and future generations.

Proxy Foods Inc. is not just innovating for today but is paving the way for a sustainable, ethically conscious future, demonstrating that the intersection of technology, vision, and values can transform industries and improve our world.

RASA Igniting Culinary Passions

A culinary revolution is brewing in the D.C. area, led by two visionaries, Rahul and Sahil, whose destinies were intertwined by their heritage and an indomitable spirit to redefine Indian cuisine. RASA, their brainchild, emerged from the rich tapestry of their upbringing, deeply rooted in the vibrant flavors and traditions of Indian cooking passed down through generations. Born out of a desire to break the stereotypes surrounding Indian food, RASA became a beacon of innovation in the fast-casual dining scene.

Co-founders Rahul and Sahil’s journey, spanning six years and expanding into five locations across the D.C. metropolitan area, is rooted in a story that begins with their fathers. Both pioneers in their own right, their fathers embarked from India to the U.S. in 1985, sowing the seeds of culinary excellence in the rich soil of Washington D.C.’s dining landscape, and opened their own restaurant in 1991. This lineage not only inspired their venture but also instilled in them a profound understanding of the power of food. Growing up within the walls of their fathers’ restaurant, Rahul and Sahil’s upbringing was imbued with the flavors, stories, and traditions of Indian cuisine - a stark contrast to the misconceptions they encountered outside.

Confronting and Redefining Stereotypes

“In the early ’90s, people were like, ‘I’ve never had Indian food before,’ or ‘I hear everything is spicy,’ or ‘I don’t like curry,’” Rahul recalls, highlighting the cultural disconnect. This bewilderment at the American public’s hesitation towards Indian cuisine fueled their ambition to dismantle barriers and introduce a concept that was as inviting as it was revolutionary. By inviting friends and acquaintances to experience their fathers’ cooking, they witnessed firsthand the transformative power of authentic Indian meals, turning skeptics into advocates, one dish at a time.

RASA: A Culinary Epiphany

RASA was conceived as a bridge between tradition and accessibility. Stripping away the intimidation factor of a vast menu and unfamiliar terms, they opted for a simplified, build-your-own model. “At RASA, we’ve created a unique fast-casual type restaurant with a warm, inviting atmosphere. RASA captures the different colors of India, the vibrancy of the food, and also the flavor,” Rahul explains.

RASA has an open kitchen, which becomes a stage for culinary interaction. It guides patrons through a flavorful journey to pick and choose their ingredients, from rice, meats, sauces, and more, all named for ease and familiarity. By transforming traditional dishes into customizable bowls, RASA invites patrons to explore the diversity of Indian cuisine without feeling overwhelmed. Their strategy is simple yet revolutionary: demystify Indian food, make it accessible, and, above all, make it enjoyable for everyone.

Beyond the Plate: A Mission of Unity

At its core, RASA is more than a dining establishment; it’s a mission to unite people in divisive times through the universal language of food. “How can we use food as a vehicle to bring people together?” Rahul muses. This ethos extends to their approach to cultural exploration, leveraging their cuisine as an introductory passport to the world for their patrons.

“RASA captures the different colors of India, the vibrancy of the food, and also the flavor.”

Through RASA, Rahul and Sahil not only offer a taste of India but also foster a broader curiosity and openness to create stronger communities.

Sustainability’s Sake

RASA champions the philosophy that food is medicine. In a world where fast food is often the go-to, contributing to widespread unhealthy eating habits, it strives to counteract this trend with its restaurant offerings. Recognizing that accessibility and affordability often steer people towards less healthy options, Rahul and Sahil have been meticulous in curating a menu that balances healthfulness with flavor.

Over 80% of its menu is vegan, eschewing gluten stabilizers, added chemicals and food coloring, and heavy use of butter and cream. Says Sahil: “Everything is cooked fresh. Sustainability is a cornerstone of our sourcing philosophy, with all our proteins, including chicken, lamb, and shrimp, being sustainably grown and locally sourced, incorporating seasonal produce like sweet potatoes, lettuce greens, and eggplant into our dishes. Our dedication to quality ingredients underscores our mission: to offer food that nourishes the body and soul, making healthy, delicious eating an accessible choice for our community.”

Innovation at the Heart

“India is such a diverse country; you go 10 miles in any direction, the food is different,” Rahul explains, highlighting the foundation of RASA’s everevolving menu. Seasonal rotations of chutneys and vegetables, alongside menu innovations, reflect RASA’s commitment to adapting to the evolving American palate, increasingly inclined towards spicier flavors.

Beyond the menu, RASA’s innovative spirit extends to operational efficiencies, particularly in managing the complexities of catering orders across multiple locations. This challenge prompted the adoption of a new software system, simplifying prep work and streamlining the ordering process. Furthermore, partnering with tech companies like Choco has revolutionized how they place orders with vendors, moving from voicemails to an integrated app-based system, showcasing RASA’s forward-thinking approach in embracing technology to enhance their operational workflow.

Unity Through Food

Perhaps the most remarkable aspect of RASA’s journey is its unwavering dedication to community service, especially highlighted during the challenging times of COVID-19. By partnering with initiatives like Feed the District and World Central Kitchen, RASA extended its hospitality beyond the confines of its restaurants, nourishing bodies and spirits alike. This altruistic spirit reflects the essence of RASA – food not just as sustenance, but as a means to heal, unite, and celebrate our shared humanity.

RASA stands as a testament to the vision and resilience of its founders, their families’ legacy, and the power of food to connect, educate, and inspire. In the bustling landscape of Washington D.C., RASA is not just a restaurant; it’s a vibrant culinary invitation to explore, enjoy, and embrace the rich tapestry of the world’s flavors, one bowl at a time.

Feeding Innovation in the Heart of D.C.

Homemade in DC is innovating on the staid corporate catering and gifting scene, combining local sourcing, diverse founders and small businesses, storytelling, and rich data all on one platform. Founded by Mackenzie Loy, this growing organization is not just an online marketplace; it is a vibrant hub for corporate catering and custom gift boxes, meticulously sourced from local women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. Homemade in DC is on a mission to close the racial and gender wealth gap in Washington, D.C. through small business and food entrepreneurship.

Innovative Roots and Delicious Growth

The journey of Homemade in DC began in Mackenzie’s apartment, where she baked and sold cinnamon rolls prior to going back to graduate school for Public Policy and her MBA. “Before grad school, I recognized a universal challenge for small food entrepreneurs making amazing food,” she shares. “Being able to share one’s products beyond their friends, family, and social media networks and build a consistent, high-volume pipeline of orders was immensely difficult. I also loved learning about cottage food entrepreneurs baking and selling from their own homes, the stories behind these businesses, and turning family recipes and one of your largest expenses, housing, into an income-generating asset.” This problem and belief that delicious food and stories could foster economic equity were the seeds of Homemade in DC, piloted while pursuing her double master’s degrees at Georgetown University. “I started Homemade in DC as a market-based solution to tackle the persistent racial and gender wealth gap within D.C. and the US,” she elucidates.

“Eventually, we hope that our ‘innovation’ becomes the status quo, the norm, and then others will continue to imitate, imitate, imitate, and then innovate to continue to build the impact.”

Above:

in DC

box for The Anacostia Bid’s Board featuring female entrepreneurs and Black-owned small businesses from Ward 7 and 8 and the surrounding DC area. Included within the curated box were cookies by Pies on the Side, jam by JackiCan Jams, popcorn by Pop’s Praiseworthy, custom tea blend by Blum Tea, custom body butter by Mane Rhodes, handpoured soy candle by the Beautiful Brown Rainbow, and honey by the Kitchen Physician.

Insert left: Homemade in DC’s founder, Mackenzie Loy, holds up an article highlighting her work and social entrepreneurship after graduating from the McCourt School of Public Policy and the McDonough School of Business.

The impact of each transaction extends beyond revenue; it introduces dozens, sometimes hundreds, of new customers to the unique flavors and stories of food entrepreneurs. “Each order doesn’t just generate net new revenue for that food entrepreneur. It turns into free marketing, new customers, and other opportunities I might not even be able to imagine!”

Impact Through Inclusivity

Scaling Dreams and Sailing to Success

Mackenzie recalls a pivotal piece of advice from her college sailing coach, which has shaped her approach to innovation: “Imitate, imitate, imitate, innovate.” To Mackenzie, innovation isn’t about inventing something entirely new. Instead, it involves assembling the same pieces everyone else might have but in a slightly different way, executing projects with an extra flourish for the customer or utilizing everyday business expenses to create real, tangible social impact. “Eventually, we hope that our ‘innovation’ becomes the status quo, the norm, and then others will continue to imitate, imitate, imitate, and then innovate to continue to build the impact,” Mackenzie asserts.

Looking ahead, Mackenzie envisions a network of Homemade hubs across the United States. By building the platform that can expand to each city, Mackenzie is growing Homemade in DC while planting the seeds for growth by city. “Our first hub is Homemade in DC, with a vision to scale by city. We can’t wait for a Homemade in Baltimore, a Homemade in Kansas City, a Homemade in Oakland - and beyond. Through this vision, we will begin to close the racial and gender wealth gap through food entrepreneurship and small business,” she states with contagious enthusiasm.

Building Hyper Local Economies

The significance of supporting local economies is not by chance for Mackenzie and Homemade in DC. She highlights that 68% of every dollar spent with a local business continues to circulate within that community. Homemade in DC is committed to bolstering small businesses, particularly in food deserts and historically marginalized areas such as DC’s Wards 7 and 8 while driving diversity throughout the supply chain. “We’re making it easier for those corporate dollars to come and stay within the local economy,” Mackenzie emphasizes.

A Future Fueled by Community and Connectivity

As Homemade in DC continues to grow, Mackenzie’s excitement is palpable. “I love meeting new food entrepreneurs, trying their delicious creations, and seeing their faces light up when we send them new orders that are their biggest to date,” she reflects. The dream of thriving food scenes led by diverse entrepreneurs is becoming a reality, transforming the culinary landscape one order at a time. For Homemade in DC, the weekly team lunch, corporate sponsored event, and holiday gifting season is an opportunity to support your local community and businesses while creating an extra delicious and memorable moment for your guests and recipients. “Let’s continue to build this impact together. Every meal, every gift, every story is a step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.”

Homemade in DC is driven by a vision that resonates deeply with Mackenzie’s ethos. “We help small businesses grow into sustainable, wealth-generating businesses by connecting them to corporate customers,”

Mackenzie explains. She believes in the power of small businesses to create generational wealth, having watched her mom build TeamCFO, providing fractional CFOs to small to mid-sized businesses, many owned by BIPOC women.

Innovation at Homemade in DC is about more than creativity; it’s about intentional impact. The organization turns corporate catering and gifting into powerful supplier diversity initiatives with measurable, significant, and meaningful economic impact within local communities centered around women, BIPOC, and LGBTQ-owned small businesses. “That’s why we are an online marketplace – to not just to make this a onetime occurrence, but to build a platform that helps generate and speed up these orders - now that’s beginning to create the impact we’re looking for,” says Mackenzie. By focusing on storytelling and the personal journeys behind each culinary creation, Homemade enhances the value of every bite and each gift box. Their quarterly impact reports showcase the direct benefits of this model, breaking down expenditures by gender, ethnicity, and local wards.

Snapshots of Homemade in DC’s online marketplace.

Curated Homemade

gift

Homemade in DC’s founder, Mackenzie Loy, with one of the first food entrepreneurs featured on the platform, Maggie Kamara of District Chop Bar, at an event catered by Homemade in DC.

CAVA CAVA’s Recipe for Success

From Mediterranean roots to nationwide expansion, CAVA brings heart, health, and humanity to food. CAVA isn’t just another restaurant chain. It’s on a mission not just to serve food but to serve a movement.

It is a beacon of innovation, health, and Mediterranean flavors, transforming the way America eats.

The Genesis of a Culinary Innovator

CAVA’s journey began in 2006 with the opening of the first full-service Cava Mezze restaurant in Rockville, Maryland, founded by three childhood friends, all sons of Greek immigrants. They had a vision to bring their modern perspectives to their families’ rich, healthful traditions of Mediterranean cuisine to the United States. When CEO Brett Schulman later joined the company as their fourth partner and co-founded the fast-casual concept in 2010, he and his team weren’t content with merely introducing a new flavor to the market. They sought to intertwine taste with health, offering a dining experience where every meal is a delight to the senses and a boon to well-being. With the Mediterranean diet’s growing acclaim, CAVA positioned itself at the intersection of

“CAVA is codifying Mediterranean food in a fast, convenient format for unique cuisine where taste and health unite.”

culinary delight and modern health trends, promising satisfaction without compromise.

In Brett’s words: “CAVA is codifying Mediterranean food in a fast, convenient format for unique cuisine where taste and health unite. The Mediterranean diet has been the number one ranked diet in the United States for seven years running. As our country gets more diverse and people’s palates are shifting, seeking bolder and more adventurous flavors, that, when married with modern health and wellness trends, that’s where CAVA comes in.”

More Than Just Food

CAVA is more than a restaurant – it’s a lifestyle. Emphasizing that CAVA’s offerings naturally boast a nutritious profile, Brett speaks to the ancient traditions of Mediterranean eating, which prioritize balance and enjoyment over restrictive dieting. “Customers appreciate the health benefits of our cuisine and the fact that they don’t need to compromise or sacrifice to enjoy it,” Brett elucidates. “Adhering to strict diets can be challenging for many, but at CAVA, the process is simple. You choose your preferred dishes, enjoy a satisfying meal, and leave feeling good about your choices.”

The brand’s assembly line format not only ensures efficiency but also allows for personalization, making each meal uniquely satisfying.

The Future is Bright

Looking ahead, CAVA sets its sights on exponential growth, with plans to expand to 1,000 restaurants by 2032. Yet, despite this ambitious expansion, Brett emphasizes the importance of maintaining a personal connection with each customer, leveraging technology to deepen relationships without losing the human touch. The introduction of a reimagined loyalty program and the exploration of new markets signal CAVA’s ongoing evolution, always with an eye on what made it special from the start.

Setting Trends, Forging Connections

This ethos extends beyond the menu, with a focus on hospitality that makes every guest feel welcomed, valued, and part of a larger community.

Innovation at Every Turn

Innovation lies at the core of CAVA’s DNA. For CAVA, it is continuing to think about its core purpose and core mission of bringing heart, health, and humanity to food. From digital pickup lanes, digital order channels, and efficient operations to a vertically integrated supply chain, CAVA reimagines what fast-casual dining can be.

CAVA has a manufacturing facility in Maryland and a second one opening in Southwest Virginia. These facilities create unique, differentiated production at scale of their dips, spreads, and dressing bases. “We’ve taken that complexity out of the restaurant, allowing our teams to deliver those products with consistency, chef quality, and cost-effectiveness that would be impossible without this vertical production infrastructure,” Brett shares.

In fact, the majority of CAVA’s ingredients are sourced directly from growers, ranchers, and producers, highlighting CAVA’s commitment to quality, consistency, and sustainability.

In an era dominated by digital interactions, CAVA bets on the enduring value of human connection. “This is counterintuitive to technology in the digital world, but human connection is going to be a massive trend. The demise of the dining room is greatly exaggerated,” Brett asserts. He and his team predict a resurgence of the dining room experience, complemented by, but not replaced by, technological advancements. Personalization and hospitality, powered by AI and operational innovations, are set to redefine the customer experience, making every interaction with CAVA feel unique, seen, and appreciated.

CAVA is more than a tale of business success; it’s a narrative of passion, innovation, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. As CAVA continues to break new ground, it serves as a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership and a commitment to making the world a healthier, more connected place – one meal at a time.

UNFOLD HOSPITALITY

Innovating D.C.’s Culinary Scene

Unfold Hospitality is the brainchild of Richard Brandenburg and Rubén García, two culinary powerhouses with a shared passion for transforming the food and hospitality industry. Both have extensive experience working under the legendary chef José Andrés, where they earned the nickname “Delta Force” for their ability to conceptualize and execute innovative dining experiences.

Their journey from running José Andrés’ restaurants to creating Unfold Hospitality was driven by a desire to push boundaries and challenge the conventional food hall model. “We love food and relish the challenge of operating at our best and executing at the highest level possible,” says Richard, founder and CEO at Unfold Hospitality. This passion led them to create The Square, a groundbreaking culinary destination in Washington, D.C.

Introducing The Square: A Culinary Landmark

The Square is not just a food market but a vibrant hub of cuisine, culture, and community.

A Collaborative Culinary Experience

Located beneath the stunning glass atrium of International Square, this culinary landmark features Unfold Hospitality concepts: Casa Teresa, the acclaimed flagship restaurant and named to The New York Time’s list of The 25 Best Restaurants in Washington, D.C. Right Now, plus Brasa, Jamon Jamon, Junge’s, Atrium Bar and Shoals. The Square’s chef partners include: Nativo (cafe), Flora (pizza), Kiyomi (sushi and omakase), Taqueria Xochi (Mexican street food), Yaocho (Polynesian), and Brindle Boxer Kombucha. And, there’s more partners to come. The Square embodies the melting pot that is Washington, D.C.

“The Square is this incredible space where the city’s boldest flavors and emerging culinary culture come together,” Rubén explains. “It’s not just about food; it’s about creating memorable experiences and bringing people together.” The Square aims to change the shape of contemporary food markets by fostering collaboration among its vendors, ensuring high-quality ingredients, and delivering inspired menus.

One of the key innovations at The Square is its emphasis on collaboration. Unlike traditional food halls where each vendor operates independently, The Square’s vendors share resources, including kitchen space, butcher, and food buyer. “We prefer not to label ourselves as a food hall because our approach is fundamentally different,” Richard explains. “Think of us as a large restaurant that welcomes our friends from around the city.”

This collective approach not only enhances operational efficiency but also elevates the quality of the food. “If 13 tenants need beef, why should each one order from a different supplier? It’s inefficient,” Rubén remarks. “By pooling our resources, we can go through a whole cow in a week. This not only saves money and improves product quality, but it also gives the chefs a unique story to share about the source of their beef.”

Building a Culinary Community

Unfold Hospitality’s mission extends beyond serving delicious food; it’s about building a community. The Square is designed to cater to a diverse audience, including commuters, executives, tourists, and students.

The emphasis on community and collaboration is evident in every aspect of The Square’s operations. Unlike traditional food halls where vendors operate independently, The Square’s model emphasizes collaboration among its vendors. Shared resources such as kitchen space, a butcher, and a food buyer enhance operational efficiency and elevate the quality of food served. This collective effort extends beyond just logistics; it fosters a culture of teamwork and creativity, where chefs and staff exchange ideas and techniques, resulting in more innovative and diverse menus.

For patrons, The Square offers more than just a place to eat; it provides a sense of belonging. The diverse culinary offerings reflect the melting pot of Washington, D.C., bringing together flavors from around the world. Communal tables, open kitchens, and interactive cooking stations encourage social interaction, transforming dining into a shared experience. Richard emphasizes, “We represent Washington, D.C., well, providing a unique place where you won’t just find the same things you see back home.” The Square’s commitment to local and sustainable practices further strengthens its community ties, supporting local farmers and suppliers. This inclusive

and collaborative environment ensures that everyone, from commuters and executives to tourists and students, feels welcome, celebrating the diverse cultural fabric of the city.

Innovation at the Core

For Richard and Rubén, innovation is about solving problems and finding new ways to collaborate. “Innovation is solving the problem.

‘Can’t’ doesn’t exist,” Richard asserts. “People who believe in the word ‘can’t’ or ‘it’s impossible’ are people who don’t believe in innovation. Anything is possible in some form or another, and innovation is the path to get there.”

The Square’s innovative model is a direct response to the challenges faced by traditional food halls. By fostering a collaborative environment, Unfold Hospitality can create efficiencies, enhance product quality, and deliver exceptional dining experiences. This innovative spirit sets The Square apart, making it a beacon of culinary excellence in Washington, D.C.

The Future of Unfold Hospitality

As Unfold Hospitality grows, Richard and Rubén remain focused on expanding their innovative approach to other projects. “We’re very proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m incredibly excited about the team we’ve assembled,” Richard shares. “This is probably the strongest team I’ve ever been part of, and I believe we have the potential to be unstoppable in the community.”

The future looks bright for Unfold Hospitality, with plans to introduce new brands and concepts that will further revolutionize the food and hospitality industry. Their commitment to quality, collaboration, and community drives their success and inspires others in the industry.

The Square is more than just a place to eat; it’s a place where memories are made and experiences are shared. As Richard puts it, “Life is way too short not to have a lot of fun at it. And that’s what we do here at The Square – we have fun and create something truly special.”

“We love food and relish the challenge of operating at our best and executing at the highest level possible.”

Union Kitchen

HOW A FOOD BUSINESS ACCELERATOR IN WASHINGTON, DC IS PAVING THE WAY FOR THE NEXT BIG CPG BRANDS

Cullen Gilchrist founded Union Kitchen in 2012 to partner with food businesses of all sizes to grow and scale their success. Cullen got his start in the food industry with his sister and friends when they opened the Blind Dog Cafe. Faced with the challenge of increased demand and not enough production space, Cullen and his friends joined together to open the first shared commercial kitchen in Washington, DC.

In building out the shared kitchen, Cullen and the Union Kitchen team noticed the challenges around manufacturing, distribution, and sales. This led to building out the Accelerator, centered around our expertise in Consumer Packaged Goods with a infrastructure of Kitchen, Distribution, and Retail Stores that lowered the barriers to entry for local businesses.

Cullen and his team have worked with over 150 exceptional food businesses to connect food founders with the resources, capital, and networks needed to establish sustainable success. Centered around the greater DC area, Union Kitchen champions Made in DC products. Made in DC, at its core, is about companies making products and services in Washington, DC. And it goes much further than that. When companies make products that people want and build companies to last, they drive sales, create jobs, establish wealth, and develop vibrant, diverse communities.

Union Kitchen has partnered with over 700 food and beverage businesses since 2012, including over 150 Accelerator members. These businesses have created over $350 million of revenue collectively, opened over 50 storefronts and manufacturing facilities, and created well over 1,000 jobs. Of the companies supported, over 50% are woman - and/or minority-owned.

Cullen Gilchrist, CEO and Founder of Union Kitchen

Union Kitchen's sixth retail location in the Eckington neighborhood of Northeast Washington, DC. This location is also home to their second food manufacturing facility, located above the store.

Members of Union Kitchen’s food business Accelerator include Snacklins, Compass Coffee, Eat Pizza, and more.

HUNGRY MARKETPLACE HUNGRY for something better

This is a company unlike any other in the Washington DMV – and that’s saying a lot. HUNGRY Marketplace has revolutionized the office food market nationally. Founded by visionary entrepreneurs Jeff Grass, Eman Pahlevani, and Shy Pahlevani, this Arlington, Virginia-based company is reshaping the landscape of office food solutions with food made by top local chefs and restaurants along with a unique blend of passion, creativity, and technological innovation.

The Genesis of Innovation

“We began as a tech-enabled platform for office and event catering, connecting clients to incredible local chef entrepreneurs,” says Jeff about HUNGRY’s mission. “Since 2017, we’ve rapidly grown into a national platform, including business and event catering, office snack and pantry solutions, and last-mile food delivery services.” Today, HUNGRY operates in 13 major U.S. cities, employs over 200 team members, and partners with over 750 top local chefs and restaurants.

Revolutionizing the Food Industry

What sets HUNGRY apart is its innovative business model. “We work primarily with great local chefs who cook out of shared or ghost kitchens. It enables us to provide super highquality food at great price points, and it allows us to own the delivery and service side too, which is a real game changer,” explains Jeff. With this approach, HUNGRY clients enjoy ultra-reliability and a VIP level of service. “Our goal is to make people happy, and when we provide really great food, deliver it on time, and provide excellent service, everyone is happy – every single time,” he adds.

HUNGRY is also a company that is committed to making a difference. “HUNGRY is a purposedriven company dedicated to improving the lives of everyone we touch: we strive to improve the lives of chefs who are our partners, the clients we serve, the community where we operate, and our amazing team members,” Jeff elucidates.

For chefs, HUNGRY provides an alternative career path. It enables them to start a business with no money down, earn more than a typical chef working in a restaurant can, help them build a brand, and give them a more flexible lifestyle.

HUNGRY strives to improve environmental sustainability in its operations by using only catering materials that are compostable, biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable. It has partnered with German non-profit Click-a-Tree to enable clients to offset carbon emissions generated by its catering deliveries. The company has already funded a 2,000-mangrove tree-planting initiative called the HUNGRY Forest.

Jeff and his team are also active in the fight against hunger through team-based community services and donating one meal in the communities where it operates for every two clients purchase.

Moreover, diversity and inclusion are front and center in all aspects of its business. “We celebrate our differences and believe strongly that diverse teams achieve far more,” asserts Jeff.

Adapting and Thriving Amid Challenges

When the pandemic struck, HUNGRY lost 95% of its sales. “It was a character-defining moment for the company. COVID was one of the gut-check moments where the company faced disaster, and people could easily have walked away,” recounts Jeff.

“Our team didn’t give up, though: we pivoted and launched several new service lines that helped carry us through the pandemic – and tripled our business in the process. We had team members doing superhuman feats, including pulling all-nighters to launch new business lines – every aspect of the company rose to the occasion. Seeing everybody pull together despite the situation’s challenges was amazing. Pre-COVID, we invested heavily in our culture and environment, and we have nine core values that we very much live by. That’s the secret sauce to our survival, sustainability, and success.”

HUNGRY’s IT: Innovation and Technology

What does innovation mean to a company like HUNGRY? Jeff declares: “Innovation means understanding a customer or client’s needs and wants, and building something that effectively solves those needs and wants. We aim to be very customer-led in everything we do: to understand what solutions they need and want that would add value, and then keep improving and delivering on those.”

HUNGRY has invested over 100,000 hours of development time into creating its proprietary food tech platform and logistics system. Says Jeff: “Through a heavy investment in technology, the business can run in a very reliable, scalable, and cost-efficient way. Without our tech, we couldn’t unlock this unique business model that gives us significant structural advantages around pricing and costs, reliability, service, variety, and quality.”

Future Growth

As the office food market evolves, HUNGRY is well-positioned to lead the charge. It has innovated to remain relevant, effective, and it now fits today’s needs better than yesterday’s, from new business lines to all-new group order technology to driving social and cultural mindset shifts within companies. Jeff expresses: “Companies are increasingly asking how to bring people together and how to ensure they can have a shared meal and enhance culture and communication. These are all much more valuable than pre-pandemic.”

Cultivating a Culture of Innovation

“The company has been blessed to have many local investors support HUNGRY since the early days,” shares Jeff. Three of their largest investors are all DC-area based: Sands Capital Ventures, RGH Capital, and Motley Fool Ventures. Celebrity investors like Jay-Z (via Marcy Venture Partners), Usher, and Kevin Hart have also invested in HUNGRY. However, the support from investors in the DMV has been vital to their success.

As HUNGRY continues to redefine the office food landscape, its impact extends beyond mere business success. Jeff’s vision has cultivated a unique ecosystem where chefs, clients, and communities thrive together. Through its innovative approach, commitment to sustainability, and communitycentric ethos, HUNGRY stands not just as a company but as a symbol of hope, resilience, and unity in the ever-evolving tapestry of the DMV’s dynamic business world.

GOODFYND Revolutionizing Mobile Food Businesses

Amid Washington, D.C.’s vibrant food scene and entrepreneurial spirit, a game-changer is revolutionizing the landscape for mobile vendors. Meet Goodfynd, a cutting-edge payments platform and marketplace transforming how food trucks and mobile vendors operate. Founded by Sofiat Abdulrazaaq¸ Kyle Miller, and Lemaire Stewart, Goodfynd epitomizes thoughtful innovation and simplicity, harnessing the power of fintech to uplift underbanked and underserved communities.

Built for Food Trucks and Mobile Vendors

Goodfynd was born from the passion of three friends, all first-generation Americans, who combined their love for food with a desire to support immigrant and minority-owned mobile businesses. Sofiat Abdulrazaaq, Co-Founder and CEO, shares: “The original idea for Goodfynd came from Kyle. We frequently ate at food trucks, where we saw people who reminded us of our family members. When we decided to create something in the technology sector, we wanted it to serve that community. It’s really about supporting people we relate to and helping elevate their businesses.”

Today, Goodfynd’s platform is a business-in-a-box solution for food trucks and mobile vendors. It allows them to manage their businesses seamlessly, serving customers flexibly and easily. “Our technology seeks to meet the needs of our owners and operators wherever they may be,” says Sofiat. “We have a healthy obsession with delicious food and the innovative chefs that create it.”

“We have a healthy obsession with delicious food and the innovative chefs that create it.”

Unlocking Insights to Scale and Grow

The unique features of Goodfynd’s platform help mobile vendors uncover opportunities to grow, boosting sales and operational efficiency. “Our all-in-one platform helps mobile vendors reach more customers, eliminate unnecessary costs, and increase operational efficiency with one streamlined, customizable solution,” Sofiat explains. Goodfynd users save up to 23% on payment processing and increase sales by an average of 65% through online ordering. The platform offers 24/7 live customer support, ensuring vendors receive devoted personal attention.

Goodfynd’s Point of Sale (POS) system is the first of its kind, designed specifically for food trucks. It improves sales with preorders, requires no new equipment, and comes with no lengthy contracts or upfront fees. “We’ve taken what traditional payment platforms have done and simplified it in a way affordable to really small businesses,” she notes. “They can manage their businesses, market, and make money through our ecosystem, understanding complex data sets all through one system.”

A Mission of Equity and Innovation

At the heart of Goodfynd’s mission is a commitment to equity and innovation. Sofiat passionately believes that innovation should level the playing field. “Innovation means everything to me. It means doing something that hasn’t been done before, something new and novel. Without innovation, we’d still be in the Stone Age,” she asserts. Goodfynd’s approach makes advanced technology accessible and affordable to segments of the population that traditionally couldn’t afford it, thus fostering equity.

The company’s innovative spirit is evident in its ability to provide a comprehensive solution for mobile businesses. “We’ve taken something that is quite expensive and overweight, and simplified it,” she enthuses. “Our vertical SaaS

approach allows us to build super clearly for one ecosystem, giving our audience the best benefit and value.”

Looking Ahead: Expanding Beyond the U.S.

As Goodfynd continues to thrive in the US, Sofiat is excited about the potential for global expansion. “I’m most excited to eventually expand beyond the US. Mobile businesses are just starting to take off here, but in places like Lagos, Nigeria, it’s the way of the world,” she says. The goal is to help small entrepreneurs around the world leverage technology to create economic mobility for themselves and their families.

Goodfynd’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and the importance of following one’s dreams. Sofiat encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to take the leap, despite the challenges. “If you have a great business idea, give it a chance. Too many people are scared of their own dreams,” she advises. “There’s natural discomfort in trying something new, but when you have a great idea that keeps you up at night, you must pursue it.”

Looking to the Future

Sofiat envisions Goodfynd becoming a cornerstone in the mobile business industry,

not just for food trucks but for various types of mobile-forward businesses. “We started with food because we love it here and believe in its importance and power. We’ll stay in this space until people fully recognize its value, but I’m excited about the possibilities of expanding beyond it,” she shares. The next two to five years promise to be transformative as Goodfynd explores new opportunities and innovates within its space.

Goodfynd’s story is one of passion, innovation, and a deep commitment to community. As it continues to grow and evolve, Goodfynd is set to make an indelible impact on the mobile business landscape, one food truck at a time.

CHAPTER ELEVEN

TEAMS, CLUBS, GAMING, ESPORTS, HEALTH & FITNESS

PREVIEWIMAGE SPORTS

qualifiers to international pursuits, the action can be found on Maryland soil and water. The events that Maryland Sports Commission (Maryland Sports) owns and operates or has highly influenced range from bids for the FIFA World Cup™ to the Governors Challenge Basketball Tournament on the Eastern Shore of Maryland, the largest holiday basketball tournament in the country to the Maryland Sports Spelling Bee National Qualifier.

In 2008, when the Maryland Stadium Authority and the Maryland Department of Business and Economic Development (now Department of Commerce) partnered to create the Office of Sports Marketing – (later rebranded as the Maryland Sports Commission in 2016) – their intention was clear: Become the definitive leader in highlighting the state as a premier destination for sports, through the expansion and nurturing of competitive youth and amateur sports events, advance regional, national and international sporting events in Maryland and be the go-to resource for Maryland sporting events and Maryland’s sports tourism industry.

Uniquely, the Maryland Sports Commission is one of only two freestanding offices of its kind in the entire country; Utah is the other. This distinction has allowed MSC to focus intensely on showcasing Maryland to millions of spectators and visitors for more than 15 years. Since its founding, Maryland Sports has facilitated over $2 billion in event recruitment dollars, leading to more than $1.65 billion in direct spending impact. By leveraging and coordinating resources among partner organizations throughout the state, MSC works to unify Maryland’s sports community and strengthen its presence in the global marketplace.

More than the state where the Iron Man rose to fame or a Colt vanished into the night, Maryland has evolved into a sporting mecca, well beyond its storied sports legends. The state hosts a myriad of events, venues, and conferences that stand above the rest. From regional battles to national

The Maryland Sports Commission maintains long standing relationships with Maryland tourism industry leaders and sports entities in targeting and developing bids to bring sporting events to the state, coordinate volunteer efforts, and work tirelessly to create sponsorship and promotional opportunities for new and existing sporting events.

TEAM Maryland

Supporting these efforts is TEAM Maryland, a unified statewide initiative comprising 22 destinations. This collaborative effort markets Maryland to the sports industry with the shared objective of hosting communityfocused, revenue-generating sporting events. By offering a wide range of resources, facilities, and spaces, TEAM Maryland strengthens the state’s position as an ideal sports destination, benefiting from the revenue and opportunities generated through youth and amateur sports. Together, the partners have one unified voice, creating a dynamic picture of the sports communities woven across Maryland’s counties, towns and cities.

Sport and Entertainment Corporation of Maryland and the Youth & Amateur Sports Grant and Michael Erin Busch Fund program

To further enhance its mission, the Maryland Sports Commission introduced the Sport and Entertainment Corporation of Maryland, also known as “Sport Corp”, to help move Maryland forward through sports. This non-profit arm streamlines event management processes, particularly for large, multi-year events. Sport Corp enables Maryland Sports to develop more private-public partnerships and match private sector dollars with public funding to significantly grow the state’s sport tourism industry. It was established in May 2019 under the Affiliated Foundations Bill, which was first signed into law in May 2017. Governed by an 11-member board, it offers legal, accounting, and community development support, serving as an incubator for large-scale events, aiding in their early development and sustainability.

Events

• Maryland Cycling Classic

• Maryland 5 Star at Fair Hill

• 2028 and 2032 AAU Junior Olympic Games

An essential part of this growth is the ‘Youth & Amateur Sports Grant and Michael Erin Busch Fund,’ which allows the Maryland Sports Commission to be more responsive, effective and efficient within the sport tourism and sports event industry for Maryland’s betterment. Named after the late House Speaker, Michael Erin Busch, the Grant honors the legacy of Busch’s dedication to and championing of youth and amateur sports, created by former State Delegate Maggie McIntosh, who included the Speaker’s name to the legislation in committee hearings in 2019. Busch, a highly recruited Blue Chip athlete in high school and collegiate football player, dedicated his life to investing in youth and amateur sports, especially in his hometown of Annapolis in Anne Arundel County. Events

The ‘Grant & Fund’, named after the late Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegates, between 2021-2023, funded more than 130 events and invested nearly $3 million to attract and retain youth and amateur events across Maryland. This led to a direct spending impact of more than $175 million.

The impact of grants positions the state of Maryland to be on a more even playing field regionally, nationally and internationally with other states aiming to bring events to their state.

Upper Chesapeake Baseball Festival

(NACIVT)

Terry Hasseltine Executive Director Ashley Harper Cottrell Project Manager Graham Whaples Project Administrator

Major Event Fund

The Major Sports and Entertainment Event Fund (Major Event Fund) allows the Maryland Sports Commission to recruit, retain, secure & execute major, large-scale events in Maryland. Events ranging from international soccer matches to mega star music festivals and more. The Major Events Fund was enacted as part of Chapter 61 (House Bill 897) of the Maryland legislative acts of 2022 with the purpose of attracting major sporting events and major entertainment events to Maryland; attracting fans, participants, and tourists to Maryland; generating positive media coverage for Maryland; and generating a positive economic impact for Maryland.

The Major Event Fund is dedicated to working in conjunction with MSC’s other grant programs to continue moving the state forward, primarily through sports tourism.

Events

• Navy-Notre Dame Football Game

• Premier League at FedEx Field

• CIAA Tournament

• Oceans

Music Festival

Sports tourism is the economic impact that visitors have on a community from overnight stays in hotels, dining at local restaurants, gas in cars, cash on counters, and seats filled. Usually it starts with local, amateur sporting events, and then it grows regionally and nationally.

Sports tourism significantly impacts Maryland’s economy, as visitors spend on overnight stays in hotels, dining at local restaurants, and other activities. Prior to the establishment of the Maryland Sports Commission, there was no state focus on sports tourism and the youth and amateur sports market as economic drivers. Today, Maryland stands

Revolutionizing How Members Engage with Recreation Centers

In 2014, Rachel Koretsky founded Upace, which has since skyrocketed to become the top mobile app engagement and reservation platform, supporting over one million members of community recreation centers across the US and Canada. Her journey started at American University, driven by a mission to make going to a recreation center efficient for students and members alike. “Students would stop going to the university recreation center with lines for equipment, not knowing if they can take a group exercise class or workout. My peers would just stop going altogether,” she recalls. This challenge ignited the creation of Upace, a game-changing solution designed to streamline operations and boost member engagement in recreational facilities. The goal is to help every member and user to “Find Your Pace.”

Incubating Upace

While Rachel’s vision for Upace began at American University, and the incubator program at the Kogod School of Business truly brought it to life. Accepted as the first company into what is now the Veloric Center of Entrepreneurship, she found an environment ripe for innovation and

strategic development. “After I graduated, we were the first company accepted into the new incubator program,” she proudly recalls. “The program provided foundational support, mentorship, and resources, transforming Upace from a promising idea into a pioneering tech startup.”

Innovation at Its Core

Innovation is the heartbeat of Upace. Rachel emphasizes: “Innovation is everything. As a founder, you must constantly innovate your product daily.” Upace distinguishes itself by being the first in the industry to offer real-time facility occupancy data and comprehensive activity-based reservations. This includes everything from exercise classes, swim lanes, childcare, personal training appointments, and equipment reservations.

Rachel’s commitment to innovation is reflected in Upace’s continuous evolution, driven by client feedback and the industry’s changing needs.

“We must constantly listen to our clients - their needs, challenges, and insights from the field - and determine how we can help them innovate,” she says.

Navigating Challenges and Embracing Change

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Initially focused on the university market, Upace pivoted to community recreation centers, including YMCAs, Jewish Community Centers (JCCs), and Parks & Recreation. At present, Upace supports over 150 rec centers.

The COVID-19 pandemic hit the recreation centers hard as they had to close their doors. However, the crisis also highlighted a critical need: the importance of technology in managing and maintaining operations during unprecedented times. Recognizing this, Upace was ready to meet the new demands. This shift proved pivotal, underscoring the necessity for technological solutions to reopen and maintain safe and efficient operations.

Upace’s technology became essential for recreation centers, and its platform facilitated reservations for classes and activities, controlled occupancy, and helped ensure social distancing. Real-time occupancy data helped members avoid crowds, enhancing safety. This supported immediate reopening needs and cemented technology’s role in long-term operations.

The pandemic-induced shift toward technology accelerated Upace’s growth and market penetration. As rec centers saw the value of these solutions, Upace’s client base expanded significantly. By addressing immediate pandemic challenges and showcasing long-term benefits, Upace emerged stronger, more resilient, and poised for continued growth in a transformed industry.

Asserts Rachel: “Recreation centers play a vital role in the physical and mental well-being of our communities; our mission is to help these centers thrive and continue to be the hub of the community through Upace’s innovative engagement platform.”

A Community-Centric Approach

Upace is not just about technology; it’s about building community and promoting wellness to ensure community recreation centers remain a hub for healthy living and wellness. Upace believes in the importance of recreation centers for individuals and families to engage in healthy activities together. She explains: “Our goal is to help members live healthier lifestyles, and a community recreation center allows individuals and familieskids, parents, and grandparents to have a place to go focused on holistic wellness and recreation. Our technology allows members a seamless experience with their recreation center and helps them engage more with their wellness goals.”

This community-centric approach has enabled Upace to support over a million members across the United States and Canada. From JCCs to the vast network of YMCA, Upace’s platform scales to meet the needs of diverse rec centers, ensuring they remain vital parts of their communities.

evolving our technology, focusing on data as a core component and how to leverage this data to improve member engagement. Through machine learning and AI, Upace will drive better decisionmaking and transform how recreation centers think about member retention today!”

A Legacy of Innovation

Upace’s story is one of vision, perseverance, and continuous innovation. From its inception in a university classroom to becoming a crucial technology partner for recreation centers across North America, Upace exemplifies how targeted, user-driven innovation can transform an industry. Rachel’s passion for solving real-world problems and her commitment to her client’s success has been instrumental in Upace’s growth.

As Rachel aptly puts it, “Innovation must always be continuous. As a company, you can’t just say, ‘I innovated, I have a product, and that’s it.’ It must be ingrained in your company and team that you never stop innovating.” Upace’s journey is a testament to the power of innovation and its impact on communities and industries.

“Recreation centers play a vital role in the physical and mental well-being of our communities; our mission is to help these centers thrive and continue to be the hub of the community through Upace’s innovative engagement platform.”

FLEXPODS

“FLEXPODS’

MISSION IS TO EMPOWER A COLLECTIVE OF FITNESS AND WELLNESS PROFESSIONALS TO BUILD THEIR BRAND AND BUSINESS.”

Founded by Laurent Amzallag, a well-known fitness expert in Washington, D.C., for over 25 years. He has worked at some of the region’s most popular studios and gyms as well as hosted numerous live events around the country and helped to transform popular D.C. night spots into giant fitness parties. Laurent is a regular on the media circuit, seen on Oprah’s Live Your Best Life Tour, the Dr.Oz Show, TEDx talks, and many local news programs.

Laurent had an idea. His idea was to create a space to support the fitness community.

Providing affordable expertly designed and fully equipped fitness and media studios with flexible rent options (whether it’s for a half hour or a year) so wellness professionals can run their business without the risk of owning or renting conventional spaces.

In addition to studio space, Laurent provides community-building events, continuing education opportunities, and business support.

This is how it all started.

Prior to the pandemic, Laurent was working out of a Washington D.C. local gym but was frustrated about the 50% cut the gym was taking.

He also had home clients which were great because he kept 100% of the earnings, but it ended up being such an inefficient use of his time because of all the traveling to and from

clients’ houses (not factoring in the high cost of gas and the wear and tear on his vehicle).

He considered getting his own studio but the costs associated were too high (buildout, equipment, rent, utilities, etc.).

Then, the pandemic hit. Everything shut down and wellness professionals were in trouble.

He started looking for an affordable, private and curated space to run his business but he couldn’t find one so he decided to develop a “model” studio for himself and used the model to create FlexPods.

FlexPods™ mission is to empower a collective of fitness and wellness professionals to build their brand and business by providing fully equipped, turn-key studio space, the tools, entrepreneurial training, and support they need to be successful business owners.

Studios are available for wellness professionals including but not limited to personal trainers, physical therapists, Yoga/ Pilates instructors, nutritionists, group fitness coaches, and content creators. Email:

SOLDIERFIT

THIS IS A FUNCTIONAL FITNESS WORKOUT PROGRAM INSPIRED BY THE UNITED STATES MILITARY VOTED “BEST BOOTCAMP IN AMERICA”.

We have revolutionized Bootcamp fitness by delivering results for all fitness levels through military structured, camaraderie based training while giving people a place of belonging. All while giving back to a greater purpose - Our Veterans. With every workout and drop of sweat we honor and remember those who paid the ultimate sacrifice. Each facility is made to feel like a Military Barracks equipped with a real Humvee front desk, battle cross memorial, and each room being dedicated to one of our fallen service members.

Our structure to onboard new recruits utilizes solution based programming, results tracking equipment, as well as each member having their own SOLDIERFIT App to access their sessions, workouts, and fitness data.

We believe that we can put a serious dent in the obesity pandemic and veteran suicides through what we do here. Mental Health being our number one driver while making sure that the physical results are there.

Our three values are Fitness, Family, and Freedom! We are looking to revitalize the American dream by creating a culture of civic engagement, humility, and unyielding optimism for the future.

We saw a gap that needed to be closed in Fitness between those who were confident in their physical and mental self and those who were not. Working out is a very hard thing to do and without the support and guidance of others around you to get that started and push you through the hardest struggles, people would either never start or fall off before the magic actually happened. So by creating a culture and community that cares about the person next to you’s success as much as your

own we can help lift each other up rather than put each other down, which is all too prevalent in todays world with how people now interact. Our top priority is character building and teaching people the values of hard work and perseverance.

There are few careers in this world that allow you the opportunity to give someone a better life. This is why we love what we do and entered the franchising space. Especially for Veterans who have given their whole life to our Country… its now our turn to give back to them. We have created a program to partner Veterans with other business owners to provide them with the capital and resources to be able to give back to their communities and

help others. With this program we gift Veterans our $40,000 franchise fee to be able to start a SOLDIERFIT for $1. It’s the least we can do and hopefully it brings a sense of that purpose and camaraderie that is often lost in transition.

When Dave Posin and Danny Farrar began SOLDIERFIT nearly a decade ago working out of rented gym space, neither imagined how

quickly their military-inspired fitness concept would spread. “We believed we had something special, but the amount of growth we’ve witnessed over the past 10 years has been truly incredible.”

Posin’s background in managing multimillion health clubs and Farrar’s passion and dedication as a U.S. Army veteran who served

a tour in Iraq have lifted SOLDIERFIT from its humble beginnings from a dirt field to an ever-expanding fitness brand with 13 locations and growing across the United States. To soon become a 100+ Location Franchise.

We started a Non-Profit and recently partnered with Goodwill Industries to open the first of its kind 20,000 square foot Veteran Services Center in Maryland with the goal to create more like it across the United States.

COMPOSITION ID

A SCIENCE-BASED APPROACH TO HEALTH & FITNESS WITH COMPOSITION ID

Composition ID is a health and fitness company that uses science and technology to help individuals reach their health goals. It utilizes a highly accurate form of body composition testing called a DEXA scan to assess baseline body composition and track changes over time. Composition ID also offers Resting Metabolic Rate and VO2 Max testing to measure important biometrics, coordinates and analyzes blood chemistry, and offers Nutrition Coaching to help create personalized lifestyle modification plans for individuals seeking to improve their health.

Composition ID was established in 2014 by current CEO and founder, Tiffany Harlan, after she noticed a gap in the inclusion of science and data to assess an individual’s body composition, establish an appropriate plan towards a goal, and measure progress along the way.

Most body composition testing techniques provide vague or incomplete information on the body’s make up and typically only measure total body mass or estimate the proportion of different types of tissues in the body. A DEXA scan uses DXA technology to measure body fat, lean muscle mass, bone density, and visceral fat (in percentages and pounds) for the whole body and across five main body regions, and collects trending data over time. Resting Metabolic Rate data can determine how many calories an individual burns each day while at rest through a 10-minute breathing test, which helps to inform nutrition changes needed in order to gain, maintain, or lose weight (fat mass).

Composition ID’s Nutrition Coaching program creates customized nutrition programing based on an individual’s body composition and metabolic data, as well as their unique goals, lifestyle, and eating habits. Nutrition Coaches also provide accountability and motivation, and help navigate any challenges.

Since its launch, Composition ID has become a staple business in the Washington, D.C. community, partnering with several collegiate and professional sports teams in the area and providing access to body composition analysis technology to corporate establishments across the region.

Tiffany holds a degree in Kinesiology from the University of Maryland and several nutrition and personal training certifications. “Science and data are needed for an individual to truly understand their body and what it is capable of achieving. I am proud our company has been able to help thousands of clients achieve improved health through a highly individualized approach,” she says.

Composition ID is headquartered in Washington, D.C.’s Shaw neighborhood and has locations in Arlington, VA; College Park, MD; Baltimore, MD; Houston, TX; Orlando, FL; and Scottsdale, AZ. The company also operates a mobile DEXA scanning unit, the “ScanVan,” that services the greater Washington, D.C. area.

ULTIMATE ENDGAMERS LEAGUE

Unleashing

the Future of Esports

“Our mission is to elevate esports to a global phenomenon, ensuring longevity and inclusivity in competitive gaming.”

The world of esports is rapidly evolving. Staying ahead of the game, one company stands out not just for its innovative approach but for its vision to redefine the gaming industry: Ultimate Endgamers League (UEL). Founded by visionary CEO Titus Walker, UEL is transforming the landscape of competitive gaming by creating a dynamic, multi-genre platform that welcomes gamers from all walks of life to pursue professional careers and offers fans a new level of engagement.

The Genesis of a New Gaming Era

The inception of UEL traces back to a simple yet profound observation by Titus’s wife during a gaming session. This sparked a journey from a family venture into the creation of a new sport, envisioning a haven for community and gaming enjoyment across all ages. Titus, driven by an innate love for competition and a keen eye for innovation, noticed a gap in the market. “The challenge I identified through research was retaining visitors after their initial experience,” Titus recounts. “I found that the average gamer engaged with 24 different games annually, yet existing esports focused solely on single titles.”

This discrepancy between consumer desires and available options highlighted an opportunity for innovation. The venture evolved from a mere business idea to the creation of a new sport. Delving into various sports models for inspiration, the UFC’s approach stood out. Despite the established popularity of boxing, wrestling, and martial arts, the UFC successfully carved its niche, uniting diverse fighting disciplines under one banner.

“Adopting this model, I aimed to amalgamate the five competitive gaming genres, seeking to identify the true masters of gaming,” he shares. For him, the term ‘gamers’ felt too narrow, as it traditionally implied specialization in a single game. Reflecting on his experiences with Fallout, he was struck by the concept of ‘endgame’ - a stage representing mastery

A Visionary’s Approach to Innovation

For Walker and UEL, innovation means reimagining the optimal to meet unacknowledged needs.

“Innovation involves reimagining something that already seems optimal to fulfill needs customers might not even realize they have,” Titus explains, emphasizing the league’s innovative ethos. “UEL transforms mere gaming into a genuine sport, demanding all the skills found in traditional sports. It’s not just about the games; it’s about the human element in competitive gaming, elevating it to an art form that requires strategy, teamwork, and mental acuity.”

and unlocking new possibilities. Thus, the notion of ‘endgamers’ as masters of gaming emerged, laying the foundation for the Ultimate Endgamers League.

Unlimited Gamers

The UEL is revolutionizing esports by creating a dynamic, multi-genre platform where gamers can truly go pro. Titus articulates its vision: “Unlike traditional leagues bound to single titles, UEL embraces the entire spectrum of gaming, from shooters to strategy, offering a sustainable path for player careers and a new level of engagement for fans. Our mission is to elevate esports to a global phenomenon, ensuring longevity and inclusivity in competitive gaming.”

Beyond Gaming: Fostering a Community and Art Form

UEL’s innovation extends beyond its multigenre platform. The league has pioneered a model where gaming transcends mere play to become a genuine sport and art form, emphasizing strategy, teamwork, and mental acuity. This approach has not only attracted a broad spectrum of gamers but also offered developers a cost-effective avenue into esports, thereby accelerating UEL’s growth and reshaping the esports ecosystem.

“The tipping point for UEL came when we discovered the ease of attracting new gamers to

our league, contrasting sharply with the high costs developers incur to get gamers to play their games,” Titus highlights. “This innovative approach not only benefits gamers by offering diverse gaming experiences but also provides developers with a cost-effective channel to a dedicated gaming audience, marking a significant shift in the esports ecosystem towards more sustainable and inclusive gaming communities.”

The Future is Bright

With over $350,000 awarded to gamers, UEL is at the forefront of creating lasting opportunities in the gaming world. Titus envisions a future where gamers and developers alike can thrive, supported by a community-driven platform that celebrates the spirit of competition and the joy of gaming. As UEL continues to expand, it promises to forge unforgettable experiences for its community, setting a new standard for inclusivity and innovation in esports.

“I am most excited to be able to create real and long-lasting opportunities in gaming,” he shares enthusiastically about UEL’s future.

A Beacon of Innovation in Washington and Beyond

UEL’s impact extends far beyond the virtual arenas of gaming. By fostering a community where gamers are recognized as athletes

and gaming is celebrated as an art form, UEL contributes significantly to the innovation ecosystem in the D.M.V. region – and beyond. The company’s model serves as a blueprint for how industries can evolve by embracing inclusivity, community, and a relentless pursuit of innovation.

This narrative is not just the story of a company; it’s a rallying cry for dreamers and doers worldwide, proving that with vision, innovation, and community, the future of gaming - and, indeed, of any industry - can be redefined for the better.

Titus Walker CEO and founder

Email: titus@uelesports.com

Phone: 540-907-3295 uelEsports

Innovating Wellbeing for All

In a world where health and wellbeing often seem like luxuries reserved for a privileged few, Therme Group US is on a mission to change that narrative. With over two decades of experience, the Therme Group is redefining the concept of wellbeing, making it accessible, relaxing, and fun for people of all ages. This revolutionary approach is set to make waves in Washington, D.C., as Therme Group US plans to bring its innovative facilities to the nation’s capital, creating a positive impact on communities, especially those that have been underserved for far too long.

A Vision for Inclusive Wellbeing

At the heart of Therme Group US’s mission is the belief that wellbeing should be a foundation of thriving urban communities. “Our primary mission is to democratize access to health and wellbeing,” says John Alschuler, Executive Chairman of Therme Group US. “Health and wellbeing are too often a luxury product. Our mission is to make it accessible to everybody so that the benefits that come from thermal bathing, sauna, and healthy food are available to all.” Therme facilities offer diverse experiences, from mineral pools and saunas to biodiverse gardens and waterslides, designed to relax and reenergize guests.

This inclusive approach extends to community wellbeing, drawing on centuries of global wellness practices to strengthen social ties and bring communities together. Brenda Lee Richardson, Clean Water Action’s Anacostia Coordinator, and Community Leader, emphasizes, “The idea of health and wellness is secondary to us. Being able to have an opportunity to recover from our trauma is indeed a luxury that we often find unaffordable.” Therme’s facilities aim to change that by providing a space where individuals and families can come together, feel safe, and experience holistic wellness.

Building Community Resilience

Therme Group US is not just about individual wellbeing; it’s about fostering community resilience. The company’s facilities are designed to be catalytic, contributing to the rejuvenation and growth of communities. “We want to be in Washington because we believe our facilities can be catalytic to the rejuvenation and growth of community,” John explains. “We’re here to contribute to the efforts that Brenda and so many others have led to contribute to the growth of the richness and energy of the East River community.”

By working closely with local organizations and community leaders, Therme aims to address social challenges, create jobs, and provide a space for healing and growth. Brenda adds, “Therme is being considerate of all the people they really believe in to ensure everybody feels welcome. This is a wonderful opportunity to help reduce health disparities east of the river.”

Sustainability at the Core Therme Group’s commitment to sustainability is evident in every aspect of its operations. The company is a leader in using advanced technologies to minimize its environmental impact. John proudly shares, “We use geothermal energy, so our carbon footprint is remarkably small. We engage in very sophisticated water retention and recycling technologies, using about one-sixth of the water per visitor that someone uses in their own home.”

Therme’s innovative approach extends to its construction practices as well. The company’s

Looking Ahead: Therme in Washington

As Therme Group US looks to the future, the focus is on Washington, D.C., particularly the communities east of the Anacostia River. The company’s plans to establish a facility along the Anacostia River align with its vision of contributing to the growth and vitality of the area. “I’m most excited about contributing to the growth of Washington in a way that builds its neighborhoods and makes Washington healthier,” John says. “We want to build an object that is beloved by the city, a symbol of respect for being in a park.”

“Our

facilities are designed with biomorphic forms and biomimetic systems, inspired by nature to create sustainable, liveable environments. The Therme Bucharest facility, for instance, was awarded LEED Platinum certification for its sustainable water use and advanced filtration and recycling technologies. This commitment to environmental consciousness is a testament to Therme’s dedication to creating a sustainable future of wellbeing.

Innovating for a Better Experience

Innovation is at the core of Therme Group US’s success. The company’s relentless intellectual energy and commitment to a superior guest experience drive its continuous innovation.

“We innovate in terms of our mechanical engineering processes, our construction technologies, and how we process the guest experience,” John explains. “Our commitment to innovation is relentless. We want to improve the customer experience and live in harmony with the needs of our planet and communities.”

Therme’s facilities are designed to provide a state-of-the-art wellbeing oasis for all. From waterslides and wave pools to therapeutic mineral pools and panoramic pools, every element is carefully crafted to offer an unparalleled experience. The company’s dedication to innovation is evident in its use of cutting-edge technologies, such as AI-enabled bespoke wellbeing programs and wearable technology to monitor physiological indicators.

The collaboration with local leaders and organizations, including Brenda Richardson, underscores Therme’s commitment to creating a facility that serves the needs of the community. Brenda emphasizes, “Therme has bestowed our city with a great sense of dignity because it’s for everybody. It’s about dignity and the sense of wellness and being in good health.”

A Legacy of Wellbeing

Therme Group US is not just building facilities; it is building a legacy of wellbeing that will transform communities for generations to come. By making health and wellness accessible to all, fostering community resilience, and prioritizing sustainability, Therme is setting a new standard for urban wellbeing. As John aptly puts it, “We innovate because we want to improve the customer experience and our ability to live in harmony with the needs of our planet and communities.” With its unwavering commitment to innovation and wellbeing, Therme Group US is poised to make a lasting impact on Washington, D.C., and beyond.

CHAPTER TWELVE

PREVIEWIMAGE EXPERIENCES, MEDIA, MARKETING & ENTERTAINMENT

METTĀ CREATIVE

GATHERING INTENTIONALLY IN THE PRESENT TO CO-CREATE A BETTER FUTURE.

Born out of a desire for an alternative to unfulfilling college nightlife, Metta – Creative has existed on the fringes of DMV culture since November 2016.

Metta – which means “loving-kindness” in Sanskrit, is a bonding agent, a glue between people, their community, and the public good. In the early days, Metta – Creative produced “Party with Purpose,” a series of parties that consisted of your standard music and dancing interwoven with collaborative arts activities, local artisans, plant-based food options, and diverse, live instrumental performances held in the safe container of mocktail-and-seltzerfocused environments.

Local production company Nü Androids agreed to collaborate with the original Metta –Makers, Dylan Nunn & Gavin Pomerantz, on Metta – Creative’s first off-campus opportunity in 2016, when “Metta – Club” emerged at a Nora En Pure show with art supplies and programming that created a space for personto-person creative connection in the midst of a dance party atmosphere. Dylan remembers seeing participants gleefully fingerpainting on a giant hanging canvas, completely ensconced in their shared creational and transformational experience.

Metta – Creative has matured along as its founders have, evolving into a full-scale creative events company run by community members. D.C. is known for its transience, and

CNBC named it the “loneliest city in America” in 2023. In the midst of that seemingly desolate landscape, Metta –works to create spaces of connection that prominently feature local creators and artists.

When the pandemic hit, several members of Metta – core leadership moved to The Reed Center, a permaculture ecosystem rehabilitation center farm one hour from D.C. in Frederick, MD. Living in economadic vans and buses while earning certifications in permaculture, the Metta – team experienced the euphoria and belonging on a daily basis through everyday life in an intentional community that participants shared that they felt at Metta – Creative events.

This experience profoundly impacted the Metta – Creative ethos & vision of the members to ensure that sustainability, land stewardship, and community are at the forefront of all events. This shared goal led to a partnership with Roots To Sky Sanctuary, a BIPOC led land justice sanctuary in Oakland, MD, where Metta – Creative has hosted volunteer land-activation weekends, and will host an intimate re-launch of its flagship festival, Beauty in the Backyard, in June 2023 on the full moon in Sagittarius. Beauty in the Backyard is a creative arts retreat that brings together DMV area artists and musicians with acclaimed headliners for a transformational long weekend of music, art, food, workshops, creation, and community.

Metta – Creative strives to use web3 technology as appropriate to avoid any intermediaries or third-party management systems, combining all the necessary aspects of event management into one platform. Metta – Creative’s digital wallet allows users to easily send MTTA token to friends or vendors. MTTA token distribution is based on participation in events and activities promoting and involving environmental sustainability.

Metta – Creative is also revolutionizing the way attendees participate in live events. Using the company’s cryptocurrency, the MTTA token, to incentivize participation at events, resulting in higher engagement in the community and faster adoption of cryptocurrency. The Ethereum (ETH) network is the most established cryptocurrency platform, and Metta – Creative is looking forward to collaborating with other ETH developers to build a stronger community around blockchain and push the boundaries on how events operate in the modern age.

A core part of Metta – Creative’s mission is making sustainability fun, easy and interesting. One of the major ways this is accomplished is by integrating MTTA token into games, workshops and activities that promote environmental sustainability and cryptocurrency adoption. We educate our attendees on the basics of cryptocurrency, wallet creation, fiscal responsibility, as well as social responsibility.

Photo by: SKY, from Poranguí Beauty Way Tour DC Event with Metta – Creative and Ecstatic Dance DC at Ai Warehouse

WHAT IF COLOR IS THE ANSWER?

Maggie O’Neill is a Washington, D.C.-based artist, designer, entrepreneur, and activist with 20+ years of experience supporting the city’s creative community through her multifaceted work.

Her integral role as one of the District’s cultural leaders at the intersection of arts and hospitality is a culmination of her creative design firm SWATCHROOM’s robust portfolio of restaurants and commercial spaces and her communityfocused projects including pop-ups, murals, and other spaces designed to be inclusive and spark open dialogue.

With 55+ commercial spaces in the District, a complete reimagining of the iconic Willard Hotel, and countless other creative projects both locally and internationally, she is uniquely positioned to continue pushing the envelope of the impact design can have on meaningful change and artistic freedom in the nation’s capital.

When she’s not moving the needle on D.C. design, she is creating works of art and developing products and merchandise tied to a myriad of creative projects both nationally and overseas. Her passion for activism has been a consistent thread in her work, now bigger and bolder than ever with her latest project: Vote for Your Daughter, a public art exhibit and campaign.

Vote for Your Daughter (VFYD) is designed to inspire action and defend the rights of American women and girls by using art as a vehicle to educate American voters and bring awareness to issues that directly affect those women and girls.

VFYD is fundraising to create 51 statues of young girls with a life-sized fiberglass figure to use as a base statue, made by 51 selected artists.

Maggie’s work has been featured on embassy walls around the world, notable hotels such as Sofitel, Four Seasons, and Rosewood, and some of D.C.’s most iconic restaurants. Maggie has had several retail locations in the DMV area including her gallery at The Wharf which was named a must-see attraction in the District by Conde Nast.

In 2012, Maggie had the honor of personally delivering a portrait to President Obama, and in 2014 her “DC Uncle Sam” was featured on the front page of The New York Times. As an artist, Maggie has been honored and awarded for her creative and impactful artistic eye and passion for her hometown. She was the 2018 Official Artist of the National Cherry Blossom Festival and she created an immersive pop-up art activation featuring cherry blossoms made from hundreds of D.C. parking tickets.

O’Neill cannot be contained to the canvas, with several commercial and public art projects completed in the D.C. area. Two of her most notable local murals are “The Women Who Will,” a 50 x 50 work of art on Pennsylvania Avenue to celebrate Women’s History Month, and “Together,” a 75ft x 150’ ft mural in collaboration with artists Lisa Marie Thalhammer and Nia Keturah Calhoun..

“I believe color is the answer. I believe art creates the most unlikely and profound connection between people all over the world. I was put on this planet to create art, spaces, connections, and conversations through my work.”

TEDx Talk “What if color is the answer?”

Poppy Flowers, the fastest-growing wedding florist in the country, is revolutionizing the wedding and floral industries with its innovative booking and fulfillment platform for wedding flowers. Poppy’s platform offers a more enjoyable, fun, and transparent experience for couples, florists, and farmers, distinguishing itself in a $5 billion industry. Since its founding in 2019, Poppy has been the florist of choice for over 4,000 weddings across more than 70 U.S. cities.

Poppy’s digital platform provides couples with instant, customized wedding floral proposals, complete with images of real Poppy floral designs and on-demand pricing. This technological advancement, combined with their experienced in-house team of floral consultants, coordinators, and designers, ensures a seamless fulfillment and installation process for wedding flowers. Poppy’s competitive advantages include a deep farmdirect supply chain and the pioneering Poppy Floral Designer Network, which boasts over 800 floral designers. This network enables the company to scale effectively across the US, offering an average order value of around $3,000 – and ensuring clients receive abundant and affordable flowers within their budget.

Poppy transforms

the process of buying wedding flowers into a seamless digital experience.

The company’s recent Series A funding will support further investment in its product experience for couples purchasing wedding flowers and the growth of its marketing and executive teams. In the coming months, Poppy plans to expand to more states and continue investing in major markets like New York, D.C., Maryland, Virginia, California, and Texas.

Founder and CEO of Poppy, Cameron Hardesty, explained: “Before Poppy, couples seeking custom wedding flowers at affordable prices had few options – DIY or compromising their vision. An antiquated supply chain meant floral designers had to charge a high markup to turn a profit. We’ve enabled couples to get the personalized wedding flowers they desire while staying on budget. We’ve heard from thousands of Poppy customers that our personal, creative, and collaborative platform, and integration of local floral designers made the experience magical. I started this business to transform the floral industry in a way that creates value for couples, florists, and farmers. This new funding will allow us to expand our reach and help more couples access their dream wedding flowers at affordable prices and ensure designers earn what they deserve.”

Meagan Malm, Principal at Michigan Capital Network, praised Poppy’s innovative business model, stating: “Poppy transforms the process of buying wedding flowers into a seamless digital experience. This approach delivers a tangible competitive advantage in the mostly offline wedding flower industry. We’re constantly looking for entrepreneurs who change the market paradigm and better serve their customers, and Cameron Hardesty and her team have definitely done that with Poppy.”

Chris Langford, Partner of IDEA Fund Partners and Poppy board member, added: “The most important consideration at the seed stage for us is founder/market fit; is the person or team building this solution the absolute right person to do so. With Poppy, this was immediately evident. Cameron

is a visionary founder and seasoned operator with a deep understanding of her customers, her suppliers, and the path to creating massive improvements tailored to the needs of a modern bride and groom. She has surrounded herself with world-class talent across technology, operations, and finance while expanding Poppy’s presence across the U.S. Our conviction in the market opportunity, team, and product experience of Poppy has grown exponentially since our first investment, and we are grateful to continue to invest in and partner with Cameron and her team on their journey.”

Poppy, a modern, digital-first wedding florist for couples in the U.S., offers a personalized, transparent, and fun process for obtaining the wedding flowers of their dreams. Founded by floral industry veteran Cameron Hardesty in 2019, Poppy is based in Charlottesville, Virginia, and San Francisco, CA. Cameron’s background includes executive merchandising experience at UrbanStems and training under the Chief Floral Designer of The White House.

From Adversity to Innovation

Upling LLC revolutionizes cannabis access in Washington, D.C., and Maryland, offering a swift online platform for legal cannabis purchases from local dispensaries. Its user-friendly app ensures that whether for medical or recreational purposes, cannabis delivery is just a few taps away. Adhering strictly to state and federal laws, Upling guarantees a secure, compliant service, with recreational options available in D.C., and medical cannabis accessible around the clock in Maryland.

Founded by Colin Fraser, a man whose journey is as remarkable as the business he created, Upling is not just a company; it’s proof of resilience, a crusade for social equity, and a bridge to a better future.

Rising From Adversity

“In 2008, was shot eight times. I was on the illegal side of the drug market; I was incarcerated and wrongfully accused of drug crimes,” Colin reflects. His voice, imbued with a mix of humility and determination, tells the story of a man who, despite being shot, imprisoned, and wrestling with life’s relentless trials, found a way to turn his pain into purpose.

After his incarceration, he dedicated eight years to prison ministry, driven by a desire to help those incarcerated. This experience shaped his outlook on helping others. His journey led to creating Upling when his mother, battling stage four cancer, found relief in cannabis as an alternative medication. Utilizing his computer engineering and programming background, Colin secured the only cannabis delivery license in Maryland, developed the app with a team, and established the business. “We’re the first black-owned cannabis delivery app in the United States and Jamaica,” Colin proudly states.

Colin’s transformation was not just internal. He became an advocate for those like him, driven by a deep understanding of the systemic barriers faced by returning citizens. “It’s about giving back and lifting others,” he emphasizes. This ethos became the bedrock of Upling, a company founded not just for profit but also to enact social change.

More Than Just a Business

Upling is a symbol of hope and empowerment. “Upling is more than an app; it’s a movement,” declares Colin. His vision extended beyond entrepreneurship to touch the lives of those often left behind by society.

Central to Upling’s mission is the commitment to employ returning citizens, offering them a second chance and a dignified pathway to reintegrate into society. “We’re not just offering jobs; we’re offering a new beginning. I take my time and resources, build them, and put them into a job where they can support themselves and their families,” he explains. This commitment reflects Colin’s deep understanding of the challenges faced by those returning from incarceration and a desire to contribute to a more equitable society, and embodies Upling’s power as a business to drive positive social change.

Advocating for Change

Colin’s vision with Upling extends beyond entrepreneurship into the realm of advocacy. “Our goal is to be at the forefront of fair cannabis policies,” he asserts passionately. He understands the historical and ongoing challenges surrounding cannabis legislation and its impact on communities, particularly those of color.

Colin and Upling’s efforts emphasize the importance of reforming legislation and societal perceptions around cannabis, particularly in addressing the disparities and impacts on communities of color. “Governor of Maryland, Wes Moore, has been instrumental in sitting down with us, engaging in conversations about black and brown entrepreneurship in the cannabis space, ensuring equality in the market space,” Colin adds.

Through Upling, Colin spearheads efforts to influence change in the cannabis industry and broader societal norms. This dedication to advocacy highlights Upling’s role in the community, serving as a catalyst for positive change and setting a precedent for corporate responsibility and social activism.

Empowering Through Technology

Innovation at Upling transcends its business model, venturing into social empowerment through technology. Colin’s ambitious plan to train former inmates in coding is a testament to his vision of harnessing technology for social good. “It’s fantastic how you can create something just by coding and making it do what you want – and empowering and connecting people,” Colin says.

This effort is part of a broader vision to expand Upling’s influence in the cannabis delivery sector, aspiring to reach the recognition levels of major delivery services like DoorDash, Instacart, and Uber Eats. This goal seeks to grow Upling and invest in the skills and futures of those re-entering society. Through these efforts, Upling is poised not only to revolutionize cannabis delivery but also to create meaningful, lasting change in the lives of individuals and the community.

Colin and Upling’s journey culminates not just in a successful business but in a beacon of hope for communities. It is a powerful reminder that innovation, strength, and the ability to profoundly impact society for the better can emerge from adversity.

CarpeDM

Innovating the Dating Experience for Professional Black Women

Swiping right and superficial connections often dominate the realm of online dating. Naza Shelley founded CarpeDM to revolutionize how professional Black women find love in Washington, D.C., and beyond. This exclusive, member-only dating community marries the convenience of a modern dating app with the personalized touch of a dedicated matchmaker, offering a unique and impactful solution to a long-standing problem in the dating world.

The Vision Behind CarpeDM

CarpeDM was born out of a deeply personal frustration with the current state of online dating. As a professional Black woman herself, Naza experienced firsthand the challenges of finding meaningful connections in a market that often overlooks or undervalues Black women. “For far too long, we have inexplicably been at the bottom of the dating totem pole,” she shares. “I wanted chemistry. I wanted a real connection. I needed help!” This passion and determination led her to quit her job and dedicate herself to creating a platform to address these challenges head-on.

While at Howard Law, Naza met Sali Hama, who later became Co-Founder of CarpeDM.

Its mission is clear: to elevate Black women, help create healthy families, decrease the marriage gap in the Black community, and build generational wealth. The company achieves this by combining technology-enabled matchmaking with exclusive singles events, offering an innovative and essential service.

Personal Matchmaking at Your Fingertips

One of CarpeDM’s standout features is its dedicated matchmakers, who work closely with members to understand their true needs and desires. This personalized approach ensures that every match is curated with care,

“CarpeDM can have a massive positive impact on the collective economic and health status of the Black community.”

enhancing the chances of finding a meaningful connection. “We dig deep, getting to know your true needs and desires and tracking your dating success,” Sali explains. “We guide you to your special someone by sending you candidates curated to meet your needs.”

Elevating the Online Dating Experience

CarpeDM’s patented video-first dating app is a game-changer. Unlike traditional dating apps that rely on endless swiping and superficial conversations, CarpeDM requires a 5-10-minute video date within 72 hours of matching. This feature allows members to gauge

chemistry and compatibility from the comfort of their homes before deciding to meet in person. “Chemistry is the key to a successful relationship,” says Naza. “By requiring a video date, you get to know your match before overinvesting.”

A Commitment to Quality and Safety

Quality over quantity is a core principle at CarpeDM. The platform is designed to prioritize the safety and satisfaction of its members through a rigorous vetting process. Every member undergoes a multi-step verification, including a 1:1 matchmaker interview, identity

check, and criminal history screening. This ensures that the community remains exclusive and trustworthy. “We only accept the best,” Sali emphasizes. “Your safety is our priority.”

Impacting the Black Community

CarpeDM is more than just a dating app; it’s a movement to uplift the Black community. By fostering meaningful relationships among professional Black women and their admirers, CarpeDM contributes to creating healthy families and generational wealth. “The fastest way out of poverty is being in a two-income household,” Naza points out. “CarpeDM can

Looking Ahead

As CarpeDM continues to grow, the future looks bright. The company is excited about the impact it will have on its members’ lives. “We’ve been in operation for a year, and while we have plenty of couples that have met because of CarpeDM, we will be thrilled to announce our first engagement, marriage, and baby as a result of our efforts!” Naza exclaims.

Innovating for a Better Tomorrow

CarpeDM proves the power of innovation and the importance of addressing underserved communities. By offering a service that combines the best of online dating and traditional matchmaking, CarpeDM is setting a new standard for the dating industry.

“Innovation isn’t just about creating something new,” Shelley reflects. “It’s about creating something that’s truly needed and positively impacts the lives of the people that use it.”

Join the Movement

For those seeking meaningful connections with professional Black women, CarpeDM offers a unique and unparalleled dating experience. “We know your value. We got you,” Naza assures. “I promise that by submitting your profile, you’ll be one step closer to finally finding love, and our tech and team of matchmakers will be here to help you every step of the way.”

CarpeDM is not just a dating app; it’s a community, a movement, and a revolution in online dating.

have a massive positive impact on the collective economic and health status of the Black community.”

Giving B[l]ack

True to its mission, CarpeDM gives back to the community. A portion of every membership is donated to organizations that support the Black community, ensuring that the impact of CarpeDM extends beyond its members.

“Our members care about their communities,” she notes. “We Give B[l]ack by donating a portion of our membership fees to support the Black community.”

NICKELBRONX

The Core of Purpose-Based Branding

Jeff Bezos famously said, “Your brand is what people say about you when you are not in the room.” You can’t just buy a great brand. It is a way to turn every client into your biggest fan. It’s about creating a community everyone wants to be a part of and root for. And that’s how Nickelbronx builds great brands.

Founded in 2021, Borzou Azabdaftari (CEO and Founder) and Amanda Fischer (CMO and Founder) understand that the link between brand and culture is so very crucial to building great brands that even before they sketch a logo, they want to get to know your team and your values as a basis for finding your edge.

Purpose

COVID-19 was the catalyst for Nickelbronx. Despite over 20 years at his previous venture, Falcon Labs – a print and promotional products company – Borzou’s most significant lessons came at the start of the lockdowns. “The pandemic exposed a lot of problems in the business. We tried to add many creative services and build an agency on the back of it. It turned out that what we were doing wasn’t making sense to anyone,” he shares. “People associated us with the last thing we did for them; if we sold them a hat, we were your hat guys; if we sold you a logo, we were your logo guys. One guy even thought I was an IT firm because I helped him with an e-mail problem. I realized there was a lot of brand confusion in more ways than one.”

For Borzou, it led to him understanding how important controlling that narrative and strategy was and how much value there was in getting that right, talking to customers, and doing it the right way. He realized people didn’t actually want to focus on KPIs or technical jargon in digital marketing. “People come to you because they want to be different; they

want to be cool; they want to stand out from the marketplace,” he says. “I love making things cool. I love making things different. I was more in line with what people were bringing to me, my passion, and what I’m good at. That became the business’s main mission.” This shift in strategy emphasizes purpose-based branding and authenticity.

Nickelbronx’s approach is deeply rooted in understanding and positioning a client’s unique value. “We do purpose-based branding,” he states. “We don’t make something up for you that we think the market wants. We talk to your team, customers, and stakeholders to figure out what people want you for now. We look at all your competitors to see how they’re positioning themselves, and between those two things, we carve out a unique position to help customers want to choose you,” he explains.

Authenticity

For Nickelbronx, brand consistency is much more than a logo. “It’s the messaging, positioning, and even how your Instagram vibes with your website,” Borzou points out. He believes a lack of coherence between these elements can subconsciously impact customer trust, even if not immediately apparent. According to him, a large part of customer persuasion – around 70% – happens before they even enter the sales process, thanks to a robust and consistent brand image.

Nickelbronx prioritizes crafting purpose-based brand marketing strategies that underscore this sense of consistency and ensure the entire branding process aligns with the core identity of each client.

Underlining the importance of authenticity, Borzou remarks: “Not everyone can be cool, and that’s okay. It’s about finding what genuinely

works for your brand.” This philosophy guides Nickelbronx’s approach to each project, whether making something ‘cool’ or focusing on practical effectiveness, like a payroll company’s website that doesn’t need to be flashy but must convincingly showcase its capability.

Proof

Nickelbronx’s website is a testament to Borzou’s approach to authenticity and purposed-based digital marketing. It breaks down the five pillars of how they build great brands: Grow; Give a F*ck; Be Real; and, Make Cool Sh*t.

There’s a meticulously refined process to building great brands. At Nickelbronx, it starts with Discovery (getting to know your current brand, market, customers, and audience), then Strategy (defining a brand’s purpose, positioning, communication pillars, and brand values), to Identity (it’s more than just a logo, it’s crafting a visual representation of a brand’s purpose, personality, and values), to Development (this is about tailoring brand execution and key marketing efforts), and finally onto Rollout (the activation of all branding efforts).

The nitty gritty services range from visual identity, web design, video editing, animation, and marketing strategy to SEO, demand generation, and social media management.

Nickelbronx is a creative agency that delivers on the intersection of speed, quality, creativity, and consistency. From strategic campaigns to tactical deliverables, they haven’t met a job they can’t crush. Their edge and grit are what set them apart from other traditional agencies.

“Not everyone can be cool, and that’s okay. It’s about finding what genuinely works for your brand.”

NOWY.IO

A Vision Born from Wanderlust

People travel and take holidays for many different reasons. “Think about shoes,” says Branda Fan, Founder of Nowy. “We all have different styles and needs, and no one else can tell you if a pair is actually comfortable. Just like that, travel isn’t one-size-fits-all. We might all be heading somewhere on vacation, but our reasons, dreams, and desires are unique. So, why must planning, booking, and taking vacations always be the same?”

Nowy (which means “right now, let’s go”) is a social media travel journal –and so much more. It innovatively integrates AI and offers features such as personalized recommendations, integration of travel services, a social platform for sharing experiences, a journal for documenting your travel inspirations and memorable moments, and support for local experiences and services.

“We want to bring seamless travel experiences that not only help people to book their whole itinerary, plan their whole itinerary, and find inspiration, but also to let travelers document everything on their journey, why they went there, how they planned it, and what makes their trip so uniquely theirs,” shares Branda. “Nowy lets users upload photos, comment, and share stories. We want users to feel like Nowy is their best way to journal your trip, like ‘Wow, this is my journey.’”

The Genesis of Nowy

Branda’s early life was imbued with a sense of adventure and exploration, a gift from her father. She humorously notes: “I started traveling before I was born,” referring to her parents’ journey to a remote northwestern desert where her mother gave birth to her. This wanderlust spirit was fostered by her father, who transformed routine trips into spontaneous adventures. Branda recalls: “My father would pick us up from school, and we’d head straight to the airport – no planned destination. When we got to the ticket counter, he’d ask the employee which was the next flight out, and we’d usually take that one. That’s adventure!” Those experiences became cherished memories. Those ideas became the foundation for Branda’s vision for Nowy.io.

The struggles of planning trips with her two young boys ignited the idea for Nowy. “Travel planning was a nightmare. I wanted to create something to make it easier, more memorable,” she explains.

A Seamless Travel Experience

Nowy isn’t just a travel app; it’s a comprehensive platform integrating AI to offer personalized travel experiences. What sets Nowy apart is its approach to technology and travel. “We’re not just using AI for recommendations. We’re integrating a human touch, allowing travelers to truly experience the world,” Branda emphasizes. Branda’s vision for Nowy is to integrate AI to enhance, rather than replace, the human experience of travel. The app uses AI for recommendations and planning but retains a focus on the human aspect of exploring the world. “There’s no way that AI can replace you to experience the world,” she asserts, emphasizing the balance between technology and personal experience.

“We’re not just using AI for recommendations. We’re integrating a human touch, allowing travelers to truly experience the world.”

Tailoring Travel to Life Stories

She foresees AI’s role in understanding and catering to “people’s different habits, cultural background, preferences, and personalized needs.”

This approach aims to move beyond one-sizefits-all solutions, offering travel experiences that are as unique as each individual. The idea is to let AI handle the “lab work” while enabling users to immerse themselves in real-life experiences. This philosophy is central to Nowy’s vision of connecting technology, human experiences, and the vast world of travel.

In creating personalized travel experiences, Branda and her co-founders emphasize the importance of understanding the deeper reasons behind travelers’ choices. This is a guiding principle for Nowy, as it aims to tailor travel recommendations based on superficial preferences and the core reasons and motivations driving those choices. Nowy aims to be more than a travel tool; it’s meant to be a travel companion that understands and caters to the nuanced desires of its users.

Branda and her team’s incredible work has been widely recognized beyond the DMV – as far afield as Portugal. This startup was selected to join an exciting pilot project with Best Travel in Portugal, called the Check In Academy, with the support of Turismo de Portugal and Nova SBE Westmont Institute of Tourism and Hospitality, to transform the travel, hospitality, and tourism sector.

Thriving in Washington DC’s Startup Ecosystem

Washington, D.C., has been more than just a base for Nowy; it’s a source of inspiration and support.

“The startup ecosystem here is incredibly diverse and supportive,” Branda shares. Participation in events like DC Startup Week and interactions with a wide range of founders have provided both mental support and practical insights. “It’s a community that celebrates diversity and fosters innovation,” she adds.

A Chronicle of Memories and Dreams

Essentially, Nowy is Branda’s homage to her father’s spirit of exploration and her entrepreneurial journey. It stands as a beacon for travelers seeking more than just destinations - it offers memorable, personalized, and deeply human journeys. “I wish everybody can remember their most memorable experiences; Nowy is about capturing those fleeting moments, making memories, and living our dreams,” she concludes.

EL CAMINO TRAVEL

Pioneering the Future of Travel

“It’s about making real connections and sharing our passion for authentic travel.”

El Camino Travel is revolutionizing the world of travel for the modern, adventurous woman. With a daring vision and a commitment to responsible tourism, El Camino Travel has redefined what it means to explore the world. Led by the passionate CEO, Katalina Mayorga, the company’s innovative approach has garnered a dedicated community of travelers eager to experience the world in an entirely new way.

A New Era of Travel For The Bold Woman

El Camino Travel is not just another travel company; it’s a movement. With a mission to empower women to travel boldly and off the beaten path, the company offers a travel membership that opens doors to exclusive, immersive experiences curated by the world’s top hospitality experts. “We don’t just preach off-the-beaten-path,” says Katalina, “we live it, we breathe it, and we reimagine it.”

Each trip is an adventure filled with unique experiences. Imagine cooking fresh catch on a deserted beach, dancing the night away in a local salsa club, or swimming with dolphins. “We embolden local creatives and celebrate the history of communities through art, food, and culture,” shares Katalina. “This is sustainable and responsible travel on a grassroots level.”

The El Camino Clubhouse: A Community of Discerning Travelers

El Camino Travel’s innovation doesn’t stop with its trips. The company has also created The Clubhouse, a vibrant community of seasoned travelers and top-tier hospitality experts. This membership offers exclusive access to high-quality recommendations and experiences, making travel planning effortless and inspiring.

For women planning a solo trip, The Clubhouse is a game-changer. Instead of spending countless hours sifting through unreliable sources, members can log into an inspiring community filled with expert advice and hidden gems. “Our members love planning meet-ups, collaborating, and exploring together,” Katalina notes. “It’s about making real connections and sharing our passion for authentic travel.”

Empowering Women to Travel Boldly

Leading with Innovation

Innovation is at the heart of the company’s success. By collaborating with the world’s best destination experts, the company offers small group trips to destinations like Bolivia, Cuba, Japan, Trinidad and Tobago, and Vietnam. Each trip is carefully crafted to provide immersive experiences celebrating the local culture and environment.

The company’s travel guides and field notes exemplify its innovative approach. Unlike typical travel guides filled with tourist traps, El Camino Travel’s publications uncover hidden gems and provide the best advice from locals and experienced travelers. This commitment to delivering highquality, reliable information sets them apart in an industry often plagued by mediocre tips and overwhelming choices.

A Bright Future Ahead

As El Camino Travel grows, its commitment to pushing boundaries and redefining travel remains unwavering. With over 1,000 members and a network of 35+ destination experts, the company is poised to lead the future of travel for the bold woman.

“Travel brings out the best of you,” says Katalina. “All your curiosities, your wild, fearless side. We are a new way of travel. We are El Camino.”

Since its inception in 2015, it has taken over 2,000 travelers to 15 unique countries. From the vibrant streets of Cartagena to the mystical landscapes of Morocco, each journey is designed to offer an authentic experience that goes beyond traditional tourism. The company’s commitment to intentional and responsible travel has set it apart and created lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.

Immersive Experiences Like No Other

The philosophy of El Camino Travel is simple yet profound: Be a traveler, not a tourist. This ethos is at the core of every trip it designs. “We immerse ourselves in the destinations, guided by those who live and breathe their city,” explains Katalina. This approach allows travelers to experience places like Colombia, Egypt, Georgia, Greece, Guatemala, Morocco, Nicaragua, Oaxaca, and Spain in ways that typical tourists never could.

El Camino Travel is dedicated to supporting women at all stages of life. Whether a solo traveler stepping out of her comfort zone for the first time or a wife sharing an adventure with her husband, the company’s inclusive approach ensures everyone feels welcome. “Our mission will always be to empower women to travel confidently without sacrificing the quality of their experience because of their gender,” says Katalina.

This inclusive philosophy is evident in the company’s traveler values, which emphasize open-mindedness, curiosity, and a love for stepping outside one’s comfort zone. “We understand that things may run differently than back home, and we encourage our travelers to embrace these cultural differences,” Mayorga adds. This attitude of rolling with the punches and finding joy in the unexpected makes El Camino Travel’s community so unique.

El Camino Travel is more than a travel company - it’s a call to embrace the unknown, to live authentically, and to explore the world with an open heart and mind. For those ready to take the leap, El Camino Travel is here to guide the way, offering an experience that is truly transformative and unforgettable.

BROCCOLI CITY

Mission for a Healthier Tomorrow

Broccoli City is spearheading a transformative movement in the DMV region and nationally. Founded on the principles of impact, innovation, and empowerment, Broccoli City stands as a beacon of change, redefining what it means to be cool and conscious in today’s urban communities. With this organization, founders Brand McEachern and Marcus Allen are on a mission to inspire a million actions for a sustainable future.

Redefining Cool

Every story has a beginning, and for Broccoli City, it all began with a vision to merge entertainment with environmental advocacy. In 2007, Greensboro, North Carolina, natives Brandon and Marcus started a streetwear company in Los Angeles named after their hometown’s nickname, Broccoli City; ‘broccoli’ was a reference for the word ‘green’ while ‘city’ was used to refer to ‘boro.’ In 2010, the pair hosted their first festival event in Los Angeles, California, called ‘Global Cooling,’ featuring performances from Kendrick Lamar, Dom Kennedy, and other artists. This event laid the foundation for the Broccoli City Festival, officially founded in Washington, D.C., in 2013, Marcus succinctly puts it: “Broccoli City creates large events and significant opportunities for people to gather information around living more healthy and sustainable, and we use live entertainment to do that.”

At the heart of Broccoli City’s philosophy is the desire to redefine cool. “We want to change the perception of somebody being cool,” Marcus explains. It showcases that being health-conscious, environmentally aware, and community-oriented is the new cool. This mindset change is challenging yet rewarding as Broccoli City navigates the complexities of influencing behaviors and attitudes in an engaging and non-preachy way.

The Secret Sauce

What sets Broccoli City apart is its unique approach to messaging and engagement. “The secret sauce is not preaching,” Marcus shares,

emphasizing the importance of relatability over preaching. Brandon adds, “People didn’t even know they were going to the festival on Earth Day.” By integrating healthy foods, environmental programming, and big names in hip-hop and R&B, they subtly introduce their audience to essential issues, proving that change can be both fun and impactful.

The journey from a clothing line to a cultural phenomenon was fueled by innovation and faith. The tipping point came in 2016 with the booking of artist Future, catapulting Broccoli City into the spotlight and proving that their innovative model could resonate on a large scale.

Embracing Transparency and Authenticity

Brandon and Marcus attribute much of their success to the transparency and authenticity at the core of Broccoli City. This approach has fostered a sense of community and allyship, allowing for open dialogue and feedback.

“It’s about transparency and authenticity,” Brandon explains, highlighting the importance of giving their audience choices and recognizing their needs.

The Impact of Community and Sustainability

Beyond the festivals and events, Broccoli City is deeply committed to community and sustainability.

Marcus adds: “How do you continue to uplift a community for young entrepreneurs? We have developed an economy and ecosystem within our events, creating a small city. For us, that’s what sustainability also means: building up and sustaining each other.” As they continue to push the boundaries of what’s possible, their focus on empowering urban communities and fostering a sustainable future remains unwavering.

Looking to the Future

As Broccoli City looks to the future, innovation remains at the forefront. From reimagining the festival experience to exploring new genres and formats, the team is committed to staying ahead of the curve. “Innovation is allowing yourself to go into the uncharted,” Marcus reflects, emphasizing the importance of stepping out on faith and following one’s gut.

Broccoli City is more than a business; it’s a movement that challenges norms, inspires change, and empowers communities. Through their innovative approach, Brandon McEachern and Marcus Allen have created a platform that transcends entertainment, making an indelible mark on Washington, D.C., and beyond. As they continue redefining cool and advocating for a healthier, more sustainable world, Broccoli City is a testament to the power of creativity, community, and conviction in driving positive change.

The Rise of a Lifestyle Powerhouse

VERSUS is a multi-dimensional lifestyle brand rewriting the rules of hospitality, marketing, and venture capital in Washington, D.C. Under the visionary leadership of CEO Vinoda Basnayake, VERSUS has become synonymous with innovation and disruption. This dynamic brand is not just about creating spaces but crafting experiences that resonate deeply with its diverse audience.

“VERSUS is more than a brand. We aim to deliver unparalleled experiences that stay with you long after the event is over,” says Vinoda. This ethos is evident in every facet of VERSUS, from its award-winning hospitality ventures to its groundbreaking marketing strategies and innovative investments.

Hospitality Redefined

VERSUS’s hospitality ventures are the crown jewels of D.C.’s nightlife and dining scene. Take HEIST, for example. Named the #1 lounge in America by the Nightclub & Bar Awards in 2018, HEIST is the ultimate luxury nightlife destination. Its discreet yet electrifying atmosphere has made it the go-to spot for celebrities like Drake, Michelle Obama, and LeBron James.

“Our goal with HEIST was to create a space that feels exclusive yet welcoming, where every guest can feel like a VIP,” explains Nikki Braden, Vice President of Hospitality at VERSUS. The success of HEIST is a testament to VERSUS’s ability to blend luxury with authenticity.

Another standout is Morris American Bar, a craft cocktail haven in downtown D.C. Since its inception in 2016, Morris has garnered acclaim for its artisanal drinks, welcoming atmosphere, and pastel-pretty décor. “Morris is about creating a space where people can connect and enjoy the art of mixology,” says Nikki.

Casta’s Rum Bar, with its Cuban cuisine and innovative bar program, offers a vibrant indoor-outdoor setting that has earned accolades like being named one of the “15 Coolest Outdoor Restaurants Across the U.S. and Canada” by OpenTable. Meanwhile, Ciel Social Club, an opulent penthouse lounge, provides nearly 360-degree views of D.C. landmarks, making it the decadent nucleus of D.C. nightlife.

Treehouse Rooftop and Lounge, launched in 2023, is an intimate sanctuary featuring Latin-inspired bites, imaginative cocktails, and lively D.J. sets amidst lush greenery in a historic building. Each venue under VERSUS Hospitality is designed to offer a unique and unforgettable experience, reflecting the brand’s commitment to quality and innovation.

Crafting Unforgettable Experiences

The company’s impact extends beyond its hospitality venues. The brand is known for curating groundbreaking pop-ups at major events like SXSW, Austin City Limits Live, and the Kennedy Center. These activations showcase VERSUS’s knack for crafting unforgettable experiences that perfectly align with its brand ethos.

“We believe in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in event experiences,” says Jared Nozick, Chief Marketing Officer. “Our activations are designed to engage and inspire, creating lasting memories for our guests.”

The Power of Storytelling

VERSUS Agency, the brand’s marketing arm, is a strategically assembled group of marketers, creators, and storytellers focused on bespoke, innovative digital solutions. The agency works with brands, industry mavens, celebrities, concepts, and executives with one common goal –growth. Services range from digital marketing and creative design to campaign development and event planning.

“Storytelling is at the heart of everything we do,” says Alden Newman, Vice President of VERSUS Agency. “We don’t just market brands; we create narratives that resonate with audiences and drive engagement.”

VERSUS Agency’s ability to blend creativity with strategic thinking has led to the successful execution of numerous high-impact campaigns and activations. The agency’s work is characterized by its innovative approach and commitment to excellence.

Innovating Through Ventures

The newest arm of the brand, VERSUS Venture, is dedicated to investing in innovative people and ideas. This venture arm leverages the brand’s marketing engine to launch its own in-house products and brands and invest in complementary external ventures.

One of the most exciting ventures is Huggs, a wearable hangover remedy that took TikTok by storm. With support from mega-influencers like Alix Earle, Huggs quickly amassed over 50 million impressions and secured a national retail partnership with Urban Outfitters. “Huggs is a perfect example of how we use our marketing expertise to bring innovative products to market and create a buzz around them,” Jared notes.

VERSUS’s venture arm is not just about investments; it’s about creating a culture and reflecting the brand’s values through brand expression. Every investment and product launch shows the brand’s commitment to innovation and quality.

A Culture of Innovation

At the heart of VERSUS is a culture that prioritizes core beliefs and values. This culture is the “x-factor” that sets VERSUS apart from its competitors, enabling the creation of distinctive spaces, campaigns, experiences, and products.

VERSUS’s ability to stay ahead of the curve and deliver unmatched quality and creativity is a testament to its strong cultural foundation. By maintaining its foundational principles, VERSUS consistently exceeds the expectations of a dynamic and ever-evolving market.

As VERSUS continues to expand and innovate, its commitment to excellence and authenticity remains unwavering. The brand’s multifaceted approach to hospitality, marketing, and venture capital ensures it will continue to set new standards and create unparalleled experiences.

“We believe in pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.”

The VERSUS Equity Team

HEIST Nightclub

REMON HENES

AN

INNOVATOR SHAPING THE NARRATIVE OF D.C.

A Visionary Among D.C.’s Top 100 Innovators

Remon Henes stands out as one of the District of Columbia’s 100 leading innovators, offering the world a fresh perspective on Washington through his groundbreaking project, DC Zesty Story. An award-winning producer and filmmaker from Cairo, Remon’s dynamic vision led to the inception of Dot Lemon in 2021. This multicultural hub, fluent in multiple languages, crafts video-driven stories that resonate across diverse demographics.

Showcasing D.C.’s Diverse Spectrum

DC Zesty Story celebrates the unique narratives of D.C.’s residents, from artists like Zhenya Parish Molloa and Jana Eisenstein to activists such as Luci Murphy. It highlights the contributions of figures like Jonte Lee, an LGBTQ+ educator, and Marta Pérez García, an artist raising awareness about domestic violence. The platform also offers a glimpse into D.C.’s cultural heritage, championing the significance of GoGo music and more.

Innovation Amidst Challenges

DC Zesty Story: A Revolutionary Platform

Breaking away from D.C.’s political reputation, DC Zesty Story dives deep into the city’s vibrant soul. It’s not just a media platform; it’s a revolutionary space that uncovers the rich stories of people who shape the city’s diverse culture, putting Remon on the map as a true innovator.

Collaboration Breeds Innovation

In April 2022, Sarah, a resident of Washington D.C. since 2016, felt a compelling urge to narrate the myriad stories that the city held. With her background in international development and a heart

that beat for humanist thinking, this Casablanca native believed in the power of storytelling. For her, stories transcended cultural boundaries, stereotypes, and cliches, revealing shared emotions, interests, and aspirations.

On a serendipitous Saturday morning, over coffee with Remon, their shared passion for storytelling ignited a collaborative spark. Recognizing her zeal, Remon offered to mentor Sarah, introducing her to the world of digital storytelling. This fortuitous meeting not only enriched DC Zesty Story but also formed a dynamic duo that would redefine how D.C.’s tales were told.

Every innovation faces challenges, and DC Zesty Story was no exception. As its influence grew, logistical obstacles emerged. Yet, with Remon’s unwavering commitment, the project continued to thrive. Investing in state-of-the-art equipment and dedicating countless hours, he ensured these essential D.C. stories reached far and wide.

A Global Dream

Remon’s innovation doesn’t stop at D.C.’s borders. As DC Zesty Story gains traction, he aspires to narrate tales from cities globally, connecting diverse narratives and fostering a sense of global community.

An Invitation to Experience Innovation

DC Zesty Story is more than a project; it’s an innovation that transforms perspectives. Whether you’re a D.C. native or a newcomer, join Remon Henes on this journey and see Washington, D.C., through the eyes of one of its top innovators.

Wine made with only 8 ingredients or less.

Mom Juice is our very own unconventional love story. A blind business lunch date turned into a dynamic friendship, and years later, a lucrative business opportunity that helps us bring women and mothers together over a glass of wine. Because if people are getting together, trust and believe wine will be involved. Wine has always been that girl – just like you.

Let us introduce ourselves and hopefully, we can snag an invite to your next girl’s night.

Mom Juice in DC

We’ve partnered with District Motherhued for multiple years. The Momference® is powered by District Motherhued ® – the premier organization dedicated to creating experiences and providing resources for (millennial) moms of color based in the D.C. Metropolitan area. Momference® is the floral paradise of rejuvenation and Black mama empowerment! From wellness practices to career development strategies, there’s something to help every mom bloom to her fullest potential.

About Kristin Taylor

Growing up surrounded by strong women in the Virginia, I was never afraid to get my hands dirty. I have always known the influence of powerful women who cultivate transformative moments with their hands, through the meals they prepare for their loved ones. I strive to follow in their footsteps, creating and caring for friends and family –and that’s really where Mom Juice began. However, it was a visit to a vineyard in Italy with my family that set me on a tangible path of creativity and a lifelong appreciation for sensory experiences centered around food. I remember the smell of tomatoes punctuating the air, and the mesmerizing aromas of delicious sauces wafting over us as we walked through the streets.

Mom Juice has been an exercise in getting women and mothers – just like me – to revel in the communal moments we have always shared. The secrets we share, the joys we celebrate, the things we mourn, and even (or especially) the mundane. What’s better than taking a moment after a

long day of meetings, emails, and school drop-offs than relaxing with a beautiful glass of wine? Or several… Whether you’re drinking with your girlfriends, your spouse, or even by yourself, Mom Juice knows that you deserve that glass.

We started Mom Juice in 2020 after months of late nights, tears, and so many bottles of wine. When we developed our brand, we didn’t want to just put out wine – we wanted to change the entire narrative about motherhood. We are two women of color who want to leave a legacy for our children, the same way our mothers did for us.

Innovation Through Creativity and Data

At the heart of Grit Studio’s success is our commitment to blending creative innovation with data-driven strategies. Our team, composed of industry experts, master multitaskers, mom bosses, and out-of-the-box creatives, brings a wealth of diverse experiences and perspectives. This diversity fuels our creativity, enabling us to craft unique and engaging content that stands out in the crowded digital marketplace.

helped the brand achieve a significant increase in online engagement and sales. Similarly, our work with a mom and baby product line involved creating emotionally resonant content that resonated deeply with the target audience, resulting in substantial growth in brand loyalty and market share.

Looking Ahead

WE ELEVATE BRANDS

In the competitive world of digital marketing, standing out requires more than just expertise; it demands innovation, creativity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. At Grit Studio, we embody these qualities. We are a content-first digital marketing studio dedicated to empowering premium brands through creative innovation and data-driven results. Founded and led by Erin Kirkpatrick Fabio, a consumer marketing veteran, GRIT focuses on the Beauty/Wellness, Mom/Baby, and Real Estate sectors, bringing a unique blend of artistry and analytics to every project we undertake.

A Vision of Growth and Empowerment

Our vision at Grit Studio is to create a space where creators can grow and thrive. We believe that diverse perspectives and voices are crucial to driving innovation. In our workspace, taking risks is synonymous with

achieving growth, and combining passion with grit leads to significant rewards. This philosophy is the backbone of our approach to digital marketing and content development.

The Power of a 360-Degree Approach

Grit Studio offers 360-degree content development and digital marketing services. This comprehensive approach ensures that our clients’ content and channel management function as a cohesive ecosystem rather than operating in isolated silos. By integrating these elements, we can achieve a more significant measurable impact and deliver a greater return on investment (ROI) for our clients. This holistic strategy is essential in today’s digital landscape, where consistency and coherence across all platforms are key to success.

However, creativity alone is not enough. We complement our creative efforts with robust data analytics to ensure that our strategies are grounded in solid evidence. By leveraging advanced analytics, we can track performance, optimize campaigns in real-time, and provide our clients with actionable insights that drive tangible results.

Specialization in Key Sectors

Grit Studio has carved out a niche by specializing in three key sectors: Beauty/Wellness, Mom/Baby, and Real Estate. This specialization allows us to develop deep industry expertise and deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of our clients. Whether it’s creating visually stunning campaigns for beauty brands, engaging content for mom and baby products, or innovative marketing strategies for real estate businesses, we bring a level of expertise and passion that is unmatched.

Empowering Women in Creative Industries

As one of the less than 1% of women-owned creative agencies, Grit Studio is proud to be a Certified Woman Owned Small Business (WOSB & WBENC). This certification is more than just a recognition; it reflects our commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion within the industry. We believe that empowering women and promoting diverse leadership is not only the right thing to do but also a key driver of innovation and success.

Success Stories of Innovation

Our portfolio is filled with success stories that highlight our innovative approach. For example, we recently worked with a leading beauty brand to revamp its digital presence. By combining stunning visual content with strategic social media campaigns and meticulous performance tracking, we

As we look to the future, Grit Studio remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in digital marketing. We are continuously exploring new technologies, trends, and methodologies to stay ahead of the curve. Our goal is to continue empowering brands by providing them with the creative tools and strategic insights they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive digital landscape.

Grit Studio is not just a digital marketing agency; we are a partner in innovation. Our unique blend of creative storytelling and data-driven strategies sets us apart and positions us to elevate brands to new heights. With a vision rooted in creativity, diversity, and passion, we are excited to shape the future of digital marketing, one innovative campaign at a time.

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The Innovate series is a 300-page in-depth study and AR video series that showcases the people and companies that are leading the race within the innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystems of each city and industry. A book with augmented reality video, an online platform and a global network with a common goal of ensuring the brightest minds of the world connect and succeed.

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