The People Behind Innovate Charlotte

Our work is powered by a small but mighty team, a network of community ambassadors, and a committed board of directors. Together, we connect entrepreneurs with the people and resources that help them succeed.

Our Team

Day-to-day, Innovate Charlotte is led by staff who work alongside founders, funders, and partners to grow the ecosystem.

Juan Garzón
Juan leads Innovate Charlotte and serves as a champion for the region’s innovation-driven entrepreneurial ecosystem. With experience as an ecosystem builder, speaker, and advisor, Juan helps connect founders, investors, and partners to create lasting impact for Charlotte’s startup community.
Sophia Davison
Sophia manages Innovate Charlotte’s programs and events, working closely with founders and volunteers to deliver experiences like Founders & Funders, Seed The South, and Global Entrepreneurship Week.

Community Ambassadors

Our ambassadors are volunteers who help welcome newcomers, connect founders with resources, and spread the word about what’s happening in Charlotte’s startup community. They are the friendly faces you’ll see at our events and the voices helping us amplify opportunities across the ecosystem.

Interested in becoming an ambassador?

Board of Directors

Our board provides strategic guidance and governance, ensuring Innovate Charlotte remains true to its mission while building for the future. Comprised of experienced entrepreneurs, investors, executives, and community leaders, the board represents a cross-section of the Charlotte ecosystem.

Keith Luedeman
Chair, Co-founder of GoodMortgage.com, Angel Investor
Amy Jacobson
Secretary
Holly Eskridge
Deputy
David Jones
Chair Member
Dan Roselli
Chair Member

Want to Join Us?

Innovate Charlotte is always looking for passionate community members to step up — as mentors, volunteers, or supporters. Together, we can build a stronger, more connected startup community in Charlotte.