This is a bittersweet post to write. After more than a decade at Techstars, I’m moving on from my role as Managing Director.
Ten years. Four different accelerators. 130+ startups invested in. Over 200 founders. Countless mentor meetings, weekly ops reviews, financial models, pitch practices, strategy sessions, brainstorms, product launches, late-night calls, and demo days. It’s been the highlight of my career to work alongside so many incredible entrepreneurs who put everything on the line to build something meaningful.
To every founder I’ve had the privilege to invest in and support: thank you. You’ve trusted Techstars—and me—with your startup journey. I hope we’ve been able to earn that trust and bring value to your path. I’ve learned more from each of you than I can express, and I’m immensely proud of what you’ve built and who you’ve become.
To every mentor I’ve had the honor to work alongside, you have been inspirational. One of the core values of Techstars is Give First. You’ve all given freely your time and your expertise to help builders build. I’ve learned so much from each of you and am grateful for your support and friendship.
To my colleagues at Techstars, y’all are amazing. Since my very first day way back in 2014, I’ve been constantly learning from you. You each brought different experiences and expertise to our team and I always knew that when I had a challenge or a founder needed help, you’d be there to pitch in. Thank you!
I’m such a huge fan of Techstars and I love the commitment to serving founders that is so deeply embedded in the Techstars culture and values. It’s the number one thing I’ll take with me from my experience. I’m stoked to keep giving first as a mentor and supporter for all of you.
I’m stoked that Misti Cain will be stepping in to be the new Managing Director for Techstars San Diego powered by San Diego State University. If you’ve never heard the story about how Misti and I met on a random Southwest flight from Oakland to San Diego, we’ll tell it over drinks next time we see each other. She’s dedicated her career to helping founders grow their companies, she’s ridiculously well connected in San Diego, and she’s the perfect person for the job. I couldn’t be more stoked to hand the program off to Misti.
I’ll be staying on a bit longer to help with the transition, then I’m planning to take some time off to recharge and figure out what’s next. I’ve been so inspired by all of you who build, maybe I’ll start something of my own. Maybe I’ll find new ways to keep helping founders build. Maybe both! If you’ve got ideas, hit me up!
To everyone in the Techstars community—mentors, investors, teammates, and friends—thank you for the amazing ride.
Keep building!
