Keynote Speaker
Bob Dalton is a social entrepreneur and the founder of Sackcloth & Ashes, a mission-driven company that donates a blanket to homeless shelters for every blanket sold.
MENTOR
Dean Craig serves as the Business Services Director at Willamette Workforce Partnership (WWP).
SPEAKER
Helen Anderson, founder of HelloCare, combines her nursing expertise and entrepreneurial background to create personalized care plans and lead skilled caregiver teams, empowering seniors to maintain health, independence, and dignity in their homes.
MENTOR
Ty Davison is the founder and president of MacAtoZ LLC, an Apple technology consulting company based in Salem, Oregon.
JUDGE
Patrick Crowley is the CEO and founder of Chapul Farms, a company pioneering the use of insect agriculture to promote sustainable food systems.
SPEAKER
John Mead is the CEO and co-founder of Solid Carbon, a company focused on creating carbon-neutral concrete to help reduce the construction industry’s environmental impact.
Judge
Carr Biggerstaff is a seasoned professional with experience across high-tech, manufacturing, legal, finance, transportation, hospitality, and entertainment industries.
MENTOR
Kate Schwarzler is a passionate builder of thriving communities. As Executive Director of Indy Idea Hub, she believes that empowered people, clear vision, and the right tools create lasting transformation and growth.
MENTOR
With a Ph.D. in materials chemistry and a passion for innovative environmental technology, Sean brings extensive expertise in developing carbon-sequestering materials.
MENTOR
Laura Kubisiak serves as a Venture Catalyst at TiE Oregon, where she plays a pivotal role in supporting and mentoring early-stage entrepreneurs.
JUDGE
Paul Jensen is the President and Managing Member of High Five Advisors, LLC, a consulting firm specializing in wealth management, business strategy, and operational improvements.
SPEAKER
Eric Tweed is a partner at Saalfeld Griggs PC, where he specializes in business law, including business sales, acquisitions, corporate governance, and trademark issues.
Speaker
Brad Kleiner is the founder of Cedar Root Consulting, where he connects business leaders through peer advisory groups. Brad helps business owners and their teams enhance communication and leadership skills to drive growth.
Judge
Lisa Francolini is a Certified Body Code & Emotion Code Practitioner, and an acupuncturist with over 25 years of experience.
JUDGE
Bev Wells is the CEO of RiverWest Acupuncture Clinic in Portland, OR.
JUDGE
With over 10 years of experience in diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, Eunice Makinde is a passionate and strategic leader who aims to create positive and lasting change in organizations and communities.
MENTOR
Alex Paraskevas is the Business Retention & Expansion, Rural Innovation Catalyst at SEDCOR.
SPEAKER
Hannah Sandmeyer, founder of Up & Over Advisors, helps entrepreneurs plan exit strategies by connecting them with partners who align with their values and amplify their impact.
JUDGE
Eric Kornblit leverages over 20 years of experience managing $14 billion in global construction projects at Intel and now serves as Sr. Director of Strategic Sourcing for Commercial Operations at Amentum.
MENTOR
Marianne Cursetjee is the CEO and co-founder of Alibi Cannabis, a Portland-based company known for high-quality, hand-crafted cannabis products.
MENTOR
Roanna Gingrich is the founder of CreativiTEE in Downtown Salem, OR, a creative space where people design custom T-shirts while building community.
HOST
Mike White is the Venture Catalyst for Launch Mid-Valley and a Strategic Advisor who has helped thousands of entrepreneurs start and grow their businesses.
HOST
Malee Ojua, CEO of Sacred Fire Creative, helps leaders build authentic brands. She’s also the Innovation Navigator for Launch Mid-Valley, supporting Oregon’s entrepreneurs.
