People Directory

People

Meet the people building and supporting Louisville’s startup community.

225

People

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225 people found

Weston Hagan

Co-Founder & CEO · Let's Start Coding

Founder

Co-Founder and CEO of Let's Start Coding and Kurious Kits. University of Louisville graduate building educational coding kits and teacher training programs.

Bryce Butler

Founder & Managing Director · Access Ventures

Investor

Founder & Managing Director of Access Ventures. Founded Render Capital. Impact investor focused on neighborhood economies and equitable opportunity in Louisville. Chair of Village Capital and Greater Louisville Inc.

David Taliaferro

Co-Founder · Lenderfit

Founder

Co-Founder of Lenderfit, a platform improving access to capital for entrepreneurs. Louisville 40 Under 40 honoree. Advocate for financial inclusion and equitable funding for minority entrepreneurs.

Lydia Henshaw

CEO · Journey Warehousing and Logistics

Founder

CEO of Journey Warehousing and Logistics. Operations leader with experience from the warehouse floor to the executive suite. Lean Six Sigma Black Belt.

Ellie Puckett

CEO · Resonate Recordings

Founder

CEO of Resonate Recordings. Small business expert focused on company acquisitions and scaling operations. Chairs CEO peer advisory groups and active in Kentucky's entrepreneurial community.

Alan Grosheider

Founder · MKS Ventures

Founder

Founder and venture builder focused on real estate technology and AI innovation. Previously led Metro Startup Launcher. Active in Louisville's angel investing and startup community.

Ted Smith

Director of Innovation · Louisville Metro Government

Community Leader

Led Louisville's innovation office and smart city initiatives from 2011–2016. Champion of civic technology and open data.

Grace Simrall

KY Director of Market Development · Lumos Fiber

Community Leader

Kentucky Director of Market Development at Lumos Fiber. Former Chief of Civic Innovation for Louisville Metro Government (2016–2023), leading Smart City strategy and digital transformation. Senior Fellow at Center for Digital Government. Chair of the Gheens Foundation Board.

David Jones Jr.

President & Founder · Chrysalis Ventures

Investor

Veteran Louisville investor and son of Humana co-founder. Founded Chrysalis Ventures, a Louisville-based growth-stage venture capital firm.

Sean Stafford

Co-Founder · El Toro

Founder

Co-founded El Toro, Louisville's pioneering IP-targeting digital advertising platform serving ads to specific households.

Dan Kimball

Co-Founder · El Toro

Founder

Co-founded El Toro, Louisville's pioneering IP-targeting digital advertising platform.

David Stadler

Co-Founder · El Toro

Founder

Co-founded El Toro, Louisville's pioneering IP-targeting digital advertising platform.

Dana Bowers

Co-Founder · Venminder

Founder

Co-founded Venminder, a third-party risk management and vendor oversight platform based in Louisville.

C. Michael Bowers

Co-Founder · Venminder

Founder

Co-founded Venminder, a third-party risk management and vendor oversight platform based in Louisville.

Steven Plappert

Co-Founder · Forecastr

Founder

Co-founded Forecastr, a financial modeling and forecasting platform for startups, based in Louisville.

Logan Burchett

Co-Founder · Forecastr

Founder

Co-founded Forecastr, a financial modeling and forecasting platform for startups, based in Louisville.

Nick Mattingly

Co-Founder & CEO · Switcher Studio

Founder

Co-founded Switcher Studio, a multi-camera live video production and streaming app based in Louisville.

Bill Burke

Founder · Virtual Peaker

Founder

Founded Virtual Peaker, a distributed energy resource management platform for utilities, based in Louisville.

Jose Gaztambide

Co-Founder · GoodMaps

Founder

Co-founded GoodMaps, an indoor mapping and navigation platform for accessibility, based in Louisville.

Christopher Head

Co-Founder · MobileServe

Founder

Co-founded MobileServe, a volunteer hour tracking and community service management platform based in Louisville.

Ben Reno-Weber

Co-Founder · MobileServe

Founder

Co-founded MobileServe, a volunteer hour tracking and community service management platform based in Louisville.

Jonathan Erwin

Founder & CEO · RedeApp

Founder

Founded RedeApp, a secure employee communication platform for non-desk workers, based in Louisville.

Vidya Ravichandran

Founder & CEO · UnifyCX

Founder

Founder and CEO of UnifyCX, a people-centric, AI-driven customer experience management company headquartered in Louisville. Also co-founded STEM Wizard. Business First 40 Under 40 Hall of Fame inductee.

Matt Langan

Founder & CEO · Stuccco

Founder

Founded Stuccco, a recruiting and talent acquisition software platform based in Louisville.

Dawn Schafer

Co-Founder · Facility One

Founder

Co-founded Facility One, a facility and maintenance management software for organizations, based in Louisville.

Joey Rivera

Founder & CEO · Eagle 6

Founder

Founded Eagle 6, an enterprise cybersecurity and managed security services company based in Louisville.

Vik Chadha

Founder & CEO · Scalable Ventures

Founder

Serial entrepreneur and Founder & CEO of Scalable Ventures. Co-Founder of UnifyCX (6,000+ employees) and Backupify. Founder of HiveDesk, Magnt, and Revoyant. Kentucky Colonel, YPO Gold member, and recipient of the EnterpriseCorp Award and Mosaic Award.

Andy Swan

Co-Founder · LikeFolio

Founder

Co-founded LikeFolio, a consumer insights and predictive analytics platform using social media data, based in Louisville.

Landon Swan

Co-Founder · LikeFolio

Founder

Co-founded LikeFolio, a consumer insights and predictive analytics platform using social media data, based in Louisville.

Akhil Suresh Nair

Founder & CEO · Xena Intelligence

Founder

Founded Xena Intelligence, an Amazon marketplace analytics and optimization platform for sellers, based in Louisville.

Kyle Green

Co-Founder · Handle Global

Founder

Co-founded Handle Global, a healthcare asset management and equipment lifecycle platform based in Louisville.

Andrew McCloy

Co-Founder · Handle Global

Founder

Co-founded Handle Global, a healthcare asset management and equipment lifecycle platform based in Louisville.

Julia Regan

Founder & CEO · RxLightning

Founder

Founded RxLightning, a specialty pharmacy enrollment and prescription management platform based in Louisville.

Brad Allen

Co-Founder · RxLightning

Founder

Co-founded RxLightning, a specialty pharmacy enrollment and prescription management platform based in Louisville.

Angus McLachlan

Co-Founder · Liberate Medical

Founder

Co-founded Liberate Medical, a developer of medical devices for ventilator liberation and respiratory care, based in Louisville.

Angelique Johnson

Founder & CEO · MEMStim

Founder

Founded MEMStim, a developer of neurostimulation medical devices for chronic pain treatment, based in Louisville.

Sam Lee

Founder · NormaLyte

Founder

Founded NormaLyte, a medical-grade oral rehydration solutions and electrolyte supplement company based in Louisville.

Alice Shade

Co-Founder · SentryHealth

Founder

Co-founded SentryHealth (formerly Edumedics), an employer-based chronic disease management and health coaching platform.

Jake Miller

Founder & CEO · Toggle Health

Founder

Founded Toggle Health, a healthcare operations and patient flow optimization platform based in Louisville.

Ed Fancher

Co-Founder · AdaptiveEndo

Founder

Co-founded AdaptiveEndo, a developer of innovative endoscopic surgical devices and medical instruments based in Louisville.

Galen Powers

Co-Founder · AdaptiveEndo

Founder

Co-founded AdaptiveEndo, a developer of innovative endoscopic surgical devices and medical instruments based in Louisville.

Venkat Sharma

Founder · Advantum Health

Founder

Founded Advantum Health, a revenue cycle management and medical billing services company based in Louisville.

Mark Murphy

Co-Founder · eBlu Solutions

Founder

Co-founded eBlu Solutions, a benefits administration and enrollment technology platform based in Louisville.

Kim Farley

Co-Founder · eBlu Solutions

Founder

Co-founded eBlu Solutions, a benefits administration and enrollment technology platform based in Louisville.

Nathan Fornwalt

Co-Founder · eBlu Solutions

Founder

Co-founded eBlu Solutions, a benefits administration and enrollment technology platform based in Louisville.

Victor van Berkel

Co-Founder · Breath Diagnostics

Founder

Co-founded Breath Diagnostics, a non-invasive breath analysis diagnostics company for disease detection based in Louisville.

Michael Nantz

Co-Founder · Breath Diagnostics

Founder

Co-founded Breath Diagnostics, a non-invasive breath analysis diagnostics company for disease detection based in Louisville.

Xiao-An Fu

Co-Founder · Breath Diagnostics

Founder

Co-founded Breath Diagnostics, a non-invasive breath analysis diagnostics company for disease detection based in Louisville.

Michael Bousamra

Co-Founder · Breath Diagnostics

Founder

Co-founded Breath Diagnostics, a non-invasive breath analysis diagnostics company for disease detection based in Louisville.

Breck Jones

Founder · US WorldMeds

Founder

Founded US WorldMeds, a specialty pharmaceutical company focused on rare and niche diseases, based in Louisville.

Barry W. Simon

Co-Founder · CreoSalus

Founder

Co-founded CreoSalus, a chemical manufacturing and custom synthesis company for pharmaceutical companies, based in Louisville.

David Phelps

Co-Founder · CreoSalus

Founder

Co-founded CreoSalus, a chemical manufacturing and custom synthesis company for pharmaceutical companies, based in Louisville.

Charles Li

Co-Founder · CreoSalus

Founder

Co-founded CreoSalus, a chemical manufacturing and custom synthesis company for pharmaceutical companies, based in Louisville.

Vasanthi Sunkara

Co-Founder · Advanced Energy Materials

Founder

Co-founded Advanced Energy Materials, a developer of advanced materials for energy storage and battery technology, based in Louisville.

Mahendra Sunkara

Co-Founder · Advanced Energy Materials

Founder

Co-founded Advanced Energy Materials, a developer of advanced materials for energy storage and battery technology, based in Louisville.

Dan Ratterman

Co-Founder · Shady Rays

Founder

Co-founded Shady Rays, an affordable polarized sunglasses brand with a lifetime replacement warranty, based in Louisville.

Joshua Otto

Co-Founder · Stinger Equipment

Founder

Co-founded Stinger Equipment, a manufacturer of forklift attachments and material handling equipment based in Louisville.

David Cook

Co-Founder · Stinger Equipment

Founder

Co-founded Stinger Equipment, a manufacturer of forklift attachments and material handling equipment based in Louisville.

Dean Dickinson

Founder · Artemis Electronics

Founder

Founded Artemis Electronics, a custom electronics design and embedded systems development company based in Louisville.

Mark Lanwehr

Founder & CEO · iKeyless

Founder

Founded iKeyless (now Car Keys Express), an aftermarket automotive key and remote replacement e-commerce platform based in Louisville.

Matt Jamie

Founder · Bourbon Barrel Foods

Founder

Founded Bourbon Barrel Foods, an artisan food products company aging soy sauce and seasonings in bourbon barrels, based in Louisville.

Jeremiah Chapman

Co-Founder · FreshFry

Founder

Co-founded FreshFry, a sustainable frying oil filtration pod company that extends oil life and reduces waste, based in Louisville.

Jacob Huff

Co-Founder · FreshFry

Founder

Co-founded FreshFry, a sustainable frying oil filtration pod company that extends oil life and reduces waste, based in Louisville.

Chad Rosen

Founder & CEO · Victory Hemp Foods

Founder

Founded Victory Hemp Foods, a hemp-based protein and food ingredient processing company based in Louisville.

Michael Roberts

Co-Founder · CandyRific

Founder

Co-founded CandyRific, a licensed novelty candy and confection products manufacturer based in Louisville.

Paul Roberts

Co-Founder · CandyRific

Founder

Co-founded CandyRific, a licensed novelty candy and confection products manufacturer based in Louisville.

Tom Cottingham

Founder · TechRepublic / Flyover Future

Founder

Co-founded TechRepublic (acquired by CNET for $23M) and Flyover Future, a digital media outlet covering heartland innovation.

Mark Midland

Co-Founder · Horse Racing Nation

Founder

Co-founded Horse Racing Nation, a digital media platform covering thoroughbred horse racing news and data, based in Louisville.

Mike Shutty

Co-Founder · Horse Racing Nation

Founder

Co-founded Horse Racing Nation, a digital media platform covering thoroughbred horse racing news and data, based in Louisville.

Chris Seper

Co-Founder · MedCity News

Founder

Co-founded MedCity News, a healthcare and life sciences industry news and events media company with Louisville roots.

Mary Vanac

Co-Founder · MedCity News

Founder

Co-founded MedCity News, a healthcare and life sciences industry news and events media company with Louisville roots.

Tom Harper

Co-Founder · Networld Media Group

Founder

Co-founded Networld Media Group, a B2B media company covering self-service technology, kiosks, and digital signage, based in Louisville.

JC Stites

Founder · Autodemo

Founder

Founded Autodemo, an animated product demo and explainer video production studio based in Louisville.

Michael Boone

Co-Founder · Academic Platforms

Founder

Co-founded Academic Platforms (formerly CNA Online), an online certified nursing assistant training and education platform based in Louisville.

John Reinhart

Co-Founder · Academic Platforms

Founder

Co-founded Academic Platforms (formerly CNA Online), an online certified nursing assistant training and education platform based in Louisville.

Jeff Amrein

Co-Founder · Academic Platforms

Founder

Co-founded Academic Platforms (formerly CNA Online), an online certified nursing assistant training and education platform based in Louisville.

Christopher Blakeley

Founder & CEO · Credit Fair-e

Founder

Founded Credit Fair-e, a credit building and financial wellness platform based in Louisville.

Ben Loehle

Co-Founder · FindCRA

Founder

Co-founded FindCRA, a Community Reinvestment Act compliance and investment marketplace based in Louisville.

Brian Waters

Co-Founder · FindCRA

Founder

Co-founded FindCRA, a Community Reinvestment Act compliance and investment marketplace based in Louisville.

Steve Stemle

Founder · Lokator Pitching Academy

Founder

Founded Lokator Pitching Academy, a data-driven baseball pitching training and analytics platform based in Louisville.

Tyler Deeb

Founder · Misc. Goods Co.

Founder

Founded Misc. Goods Co., a design-forward lifestyle brand selling playing cards, leather goods, and fragrances, based in Louisville.

Alli Truttmann

Founder · Wicked Sheets

Founder

Founded Wicked Sheets, a moisture-wicking performance bed sheets brand for hot sleepers, based in Louisville.

John H. Barker

Co-Founder · Cognision

Founder

Co-founded Cognision, a brain-computer interface diagnostics company for cognitive assessment, based in Louisville.

K.C. Fadem

Co-Founder · Cognision

Founder

Co-founded Cognision, a brain-computer interface diagnostics company for cognitive assessment, based in Louisville.

Marco Cecchi

Co-Founder · Cognision

Founder

Co-founded Cognision, a brain-computer interface diagnostics company for cognitive assessment, based in Louisville.

Kirk Howell

Co-Founder · My Rehab Pro

Founder

Co-founded My Rehab Pro, a physical therapy exercise platform with video-guided rehab programs, based in Louisville.

Kim Howell

Co-Founder · My Rehab Pro

Founder

Co-founded My Rehab Pro, a physical therapy exercise platform with video-guided rehab programs, based in Louisville.

Michael R. Marvin

Co-Founder · Pronia Medical Systems

Founder

Co-founded Pronia Medical Systems, a predictive analytics platform for surgical quality outcomes and patient safety, based in Louisville.

Brian J. Besterman

Co-Founder · Pronia Medical Systems

Founder

Co-founded Pronia Medical Systems, a predictive analytics platform for surgical quality outcomes and patient safety, based in Louisville.

Larry Joel

Founder · Optical Dynamics

Founder

Founded Optical Dynamics, a nanotechnology-based UV lens curing systems company for optical manufacturing, based in Louisville.

Mike Spencer

Co-Founder · Avante Medical Surgical

Founder

Co-founded Avante Medical Surgical (formerly DRE Medical Group), a refurbished medical equipment and surgical instruments marketplace based in Louisville.

Charlie Vittitow

Co-Founder · Avante Medical Surgical

Founder

Co-founded Avante Medical Surgical (formerly DRE Medical Group), a refurbished medical equipment and surgical instruments marketplace based in Louisville.

Jeffrey Carrithers

Founder · Global Aviation Navigator

Founder

Founded Global Aviation Navigator (now GlobalAir.com), an aviation marketplace for aircraft sales, parts, and charter services, based in Louisville.

Jacob Bozarth

Founder · Resonate Recordings

Founder

Founded Resonate Recordings, a podcast production, editing, and distribution services company based in Louisville.

Mark Minnery

Co-Founder & COO · Resonate Recordings

Founder

Co-founded Resonate Recordings, a podcast production, editing, and distribution services company based in Louisville.

Corey Wood

Co-Founder · Elixir Kombucha

Founder

Co-founded Elixir Kombucha, a locally brewed craft kombucha company based in Louisville.

Danielle Wood

Co-Founder · Elixir Kombucha

Founder

Co-founded Elixir Kombucha, a locally brewed craft kombucha company based in Louisville.

Michael Voor

Co-Founder · Vivorte

Founder

Co-founded Vivorte, a regenerative medicine and advanced wound care biologics company based in Louisville.

Ruth Voor

Co-Founder · Vivorte

Founder

Co-founded Vivorte, a regenerative medicine and advanced wound care biologics company based in Louisville.

Brian Brohman

Co-Founder · NX PharmaGen

Founder

Co-founded NX PharmaGen, a pharmacogenomics testing company for personalized medication management based in Louisville.

Ty Wilburn

Co-Founder · Advanced Cancer Therapeutics

Founder

Co-founded Advanced Cancer Therapeutics, a novel cancer treatment development and therapeutic research company based in Louisville.

Dale J. Boden

Co-Founder & Chairman · Advanced Cancer Therapeutics

Founder

Co-founded Advanced Cancer Therapeutics, a novel cancer treatment development and therapeutic research company based in Louisville.

Ian Gerard

Founder · Adder Analytics

Founder

Founded Adder Analytics, a data analytics and business intelligence solutions company based in Louisville.

David Kohn

Co-Founder · Dealer Trade Network

Founder

Co-founded Dealer Trade Network, an automotive dealer-to-dealer vehicle trading platform based in Louisville.

Buddy Bockweg

Co-Founder · Vsimple

Founder

Co-founded Vsimple, a workflow automation platform simplifying complex business transactions, based in Louisville.

Gary Criscillis

Co-Founder · Vsimple

Founder

Co-founded Vsimple, a workflow automation platform simplifying complex business transactions, based in Louisville.

Elia Tautua

Co-Founder · Vsimple

Founder

Co-founded Vsimple, a workflow automation platform simplifying complex business transactions, based in Louisville.

Henry Lynch

Co-Founder · Vsimple

Founder

Co-founded Vsimple, a workflow automation platform simplifying complex business transactions, based in Louisville.

Brad Luttrell

Co-Founder · GoWild

Founder

Co-founded GoWild, a social media platform built for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, based in Louisville.

Chris Gleim

Co-Founder · GoWild

Founder

Co-founded GoWild, a social media platform built for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, based in Louisville.

Donovan Sears

Co-Founder · GoWild

Founder

Co-founded GoWild, a social media platform built for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, based in Louisville.

Zack Grimes

Co-Founder · GoWild

Founder

Co-founded GoWild, a social media platform built for hunters, anglers, and outdoor enthusiasts, based in Louisville.

Mark Franco

Founder & CEO · MXD Process

Founder

Founded MXD Process, an industrial mixing equipment and process solutions manufacturer based in Louisville.

Connie Moorhead

Co-Founder · The CMOOR Group

Founder

Co-founded The CMOOR Group, a security training and continuing education platform based in Louisville.

Chris Moorhead

Co-Founder · The CMOOR Group

Founder

Co-founded The CMOOR Group, a security training and continuing education platform based in Louisville.

Robert Falk

Co-Founder & Chief Medical Officer · 3DR Laboratories

Founder

Co-founded 3DR Laboratories, a medical imaging and 3D reconstruction technology company for healthcare, acquired by Accumen Inc. in 2019.

Michael Davis

Founder & Executive Chairman · Appriss

Founder

Founded Appriss, a data and analytics company valued at $1.3B, by inventing VINE, the nation's first automated victim notification service. Two-time EY Entrepreneur of the Year and Kentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame inductee. Now serves as Executive Chairman and active investor.

Yung Nguyen

Co-Founder · Appriss Insights

Founder

Co-founded Appriss Insights (formerly Appriss Inc.), a data analytics and risk-assessment solutions company for government and healthcare, based in Louisville.

David Richardson

Co-Founder & Chairman · Capture Higher Ed

Founder

Co-founded Capture Higher Ed, a behavioral intelligence and predictive analytics platform for higher education enrollment, based in Louisville.

Charles Price

Co-Founder & CEO · Charah Solutions

Founder

Co-founded Charah Solutions, an environmental and maintenance services company for the power generation industry, which went public (IPO) on the NYSE.

Janet Price

Co-Founder · Charah Solutions

Founder

Co-founded Charah Solutions, an environmental and maintenance services company for the power generation industry, which went public (IPO) on the NYSE.

Sterling Lapinski

Co-Founder · Clipper Data / Genscape

Founder

Co-founded both Genscape and ClipperData, two Louisville-based energy data and commodity analytics companies. Genscape was acquired by Verisk; ClipperData was also acquired.

Jennifer Williams

Co-Founder & CEO · Cuddle Clones

Founder

Co-founded Cuddle Clones, a Louisville-based e-commerce company creating custom plush replicas of pets, acquired in 2021.

Adam Greene

Co-Founder & CMO · Cuddle Clones

Founder

Co-founded Cuddle Clones, a Louisville-based e-commerce company creating custom plush replicas of pets, acquired in 2021.

Kent Oyler

Co-Founder & COO · High Speed Access

Founder

Co-founded High Speed Access Corp., one of Louisville's earliest broadband internet service providers, which went public (IPO) in 1999. Later served as President & CEO of Greater Louisville Inc.

David Durik

Co-Founder & CEO · Indatus

Founder

Co-founded Indatus (originally Planet Telecom), a cloud communications and data solutions platform based in Louisville, acquired by RealPage for $49 million in 2015.

Phil Hawkins

Co-Founder & President · Indatus

Founder

Co-founded Indatus (originally Planet Telecom), a cloud communications and data solutions platform based in Louisville, acquired by RealPage for $49 million in 2015.

John J. Leehy III

Co-Founder, Chairman, President & CEO · Payment Alliance International

Founder

Co-founded Payment Alliance International, an ATM management and electronic payment solutions company based in Louisville.

Kaveh Zamanian

Founder · Rabbit Hole Distillery

Founder

Founded Rabbit Hole Distillery, a craft bourbon distillery in Louisville known for innovative aging and blending techniques, acquired by Pernod Ricard.

Ben Peskoe

Founder · Sierra Interactive

Founder

Founded Sierra Interactive, a real estate marketing and lead generation platform based in Louisville, acquired by Alpine Software Group in 2022.

Andy Eastes

Co-Founder & CEO · SkuVault

Founder

Co-founded SkuVault, a cloud-based warehouse management and inventory control system based in Louisville, acquired by Linnworks.

Slav Ivanyuk

Co-Founder & CTO · SkuVault

Founder

Co-founded SkuVault, a cloud-based warehouse management and inventory control system based in Louisville, acquired by Linnworks.

Denzil Edge

Co-Founder · The Learning House

Founder

Co-founded The Learning House, an online program management company for colleges and universities based in Louisville, acquired by Wiley.

Sharon Edge

Co-Founder · The Learning House

Founder

Co-founded The Learning House, an online program management company for colleges and universities based in Louisville, acquired by Wiley.

Robert E. Robbins

Co-Founder · ZirMed

Founder

Co-founded ZirMed, a revenue cycle management platform for healthcare based in Louisville, now known as Waystar after merging with Navicure.

Timur Tandogar

Co-Founder · ZirMed

Founder

Co-founded ZirMed, a revenue cycle management platform for healthcare based in Louisville, now known as Waystar after merging with Navicure.

Steve Huey

Founder & CEO · TYP64

Founder

Serial entrepreneur with three successful exits. Former Chairman of SharpSpring (sold to Constant Contact). Founder of TYP64, a digital transformation firm, and Chairman of DealerTradeNetwork. Active mentor in Louisville's startup ecosystem through Endeavor, UofL, and Startup Weekends.

Greg Langdon

Angel Investor & Startup Advisor ·

Investor

Angel investor and startup advisor who has worked with over 100 startups as an advisor, board member, or investor since 2011. Former executive at Efficient Networks through its IPO and $1.5B sale to Siemens. Mentor for over 20 accelerator cohorts in Louisville.

Todd Earwood

Founder & CEO · MoneyPath

Founder

Serial entrepreneur with three exits and investor in 70+ startups. Founded MoneyPath, a growth marketing firm in Louisville. Previously spent 15 years building bootstrapped and venture-backed software companies serving banking, franchise, healthcare, and retail industries.

Dan Ross-Li

VP Product · ION Water

Founder

Product leader and startup founder in Louisville. VP Product at ION Water, helping housing developers cut water costs. Previously founded Affinna and held roles at Captain and StubHub. Active in KYCombinator and named to 40below40.

Justin Delaney

Managing Partner · Wabi Capital

Founder

Serial entrepreneur and investor. Founded Menguin (backed by Mark Cuban, sold to Generation Tux for $25M). Managing Partner at Wabi Capital, Chairman of Helm Boots, and co-founder of multiple Louisville brands including Party Horses and Louisville Vegan Jerk Co.

Theresa Reno-Weber

CEO · GoodMaps

Community Leader

CEO of GoodMaps, an AI-enabled indoor mapping and navigation platform based in Louisville. Former Chief of Performance Improvement for Louisville Metro Government and CEO of Metro United Way. US Coast Guard veteran, McKinsey alum, and Harvard Kennedy School graduate.

Phoebe Wood

Principal · CompaniesWood

Investor

Early-stage investor and corporate board director based in Louisville. Former CFO and Vice Chairman of Brown-Forman. Principal at CompaniesWood, advising and investing in startups. Serves on the boards of Leggett & Platt, PPL Corporation, and the American Printing House for the Blind.

Ankur Gopal

Founder & CEO · Interapt

Founder

Founded Interapt, a pioneering IT consulting and workforce development firm that has helped 3,000+ individuals launch tech careers. EY Entrepreneur of the Year, Kentucky Entrepreneur Hall of Fame inductee, and Endeavor Entrepreneur. Champion of creating high-tech jobs in Kentucky.

Vatsal Ghiya

Co-Founder & CEO · Shaip

Founder

Serial healthcare tech entrepreneur based in Louisville. Co-founded Shaip, an AI training data platform, as well as ezDI (clinical NLP software) and Mediscribes (medical transcription), both successful exits. Over 20 years of experience in healthcare software and services.

Chetan Parikh

Founder & CEO · RAAPID

Founder

Serial healthcare tech entrepreneur based in Louisville. Founded RAAPID, an AI-driven risk adjustment platform. Co-founded ezDI (acquired by AGS Health) and COO of Mediscribes. Board member of Shaip. Over 20 years in US healthcare technology.

Purna Veer

Co-Founder & President · V-Soft Consulting

Founder

Co-founded V-Soft Consulting in 1997, growing it to 700+ global employees specializing in IT staffing, digital transformation, and technology solutions. Louisville Business First Power 50 honoree and multiple-time EY Entrepreneur of the Year finalist. Kentucky Colonel.

Andy Steen

Founder · Liverpool Lane

Community Leader

Healthcare innovation leader and startup veteran based in Louisville. Founder of Liverpool Lane, focused on healthtech across Kentucky. Over 24 years in healthcare with roles at Render and Keyhorse Capital. Active community builder for Louisville's startup ecosystem.

Austin Lopesilvero

Founder · Aspen Studios

Community Leader

Founder of Aspen Studios and longtime organizer of Techstars Startup Weekend Louisville and Startup Week Louisville. Active in Louisville's startup ecosystem since 2014, facilitating events at both local and global levels.

Daniel Johnsen

Senior Venture Consultant · Pilot Lite

Community Leader

Technologist and entrepreneur who helps leaders create startups, grow businesses, and build entrepreneurial communities in Louisville. Specializes in guiding early-stage companies from prototype to traction across software and physical products.

Justin Brown

Managing Director · Endeavor Midwest

Community Leader

Managing Director of Endeavor Midwest and Founder of Bespoke Production Capital. Former J.P. Morgan and Bank of America. Returned to Louisville to grow his family's real estate firm, The Marian Group, and support the local entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Kelby Price

Managing Partner · Keyhorse Capital

Investor

Managing Partner at Keyhorse Capital and Executive Director of Venture Development at Kentucky Science and Technology Corporation. Founded Pivyt and co-founded Pilgrim IT. Over two decades in IT, angel and venture capital investing, and Louisville community development.

Larry Horn

Co-Founder & CEO · Amplify Louisville

Community Leader

Co-founder and CEO of Amplify Louisville, the state-funded entrepreneurial support organization for greater Louisville. Co-founded four early-stage venture-backed startups. Former Director of Startup Ecosystem Development for Louisville through Techstars.

Darren King

Angel Investor · Unbridled Ventures

Investor

Louisville-based angel investor with over $1M personally invested in startups. Connected with Unbridled Ventures, investing in Seed and Series A rounds. Successful exits include Hosting.com and Poseida (PSTX). Background as CEO, CFO, and CPA with expertise in cloud, SaaS, and digital advertising.

Marty McClelland

President · Regent Investment Management

Investor

Serial entrepreneur and investor in Louisville since 1991. Founded MFG Solutions and Alta Capital. President of Regent Investment Management and Chair of the Investment Committee for the Enterprise Angels Community Fund.

Sara Blackmer

Senior Partner & CEO · Solyco Capital / FluidLogic

Investor

Senior Partner at Solyco Capital and CEO of FluidLogic. Decorated U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel turned tech executive. Chose Louisville for Solyco's newest office, investing in the city's growth potential.

Patrick Henshaw

Managing Director · Render Capital

Investor

Managing Director at Render Capital and COO of Access Ventures. West Point engineer, Bronze Star military veteran, and former CEO of LEAP. Helped launch Bunker Labs Louisville for military-connected entrepreneurs.

Gill Holland

Developer & Entrepreneur · Holland Holdings

Community Leader

Film producer, real estate developer, and community builder who coined 'NuLu' and transformed Louisville's East Market District. Produced 150+ indie films including Sundance triple-winner Hurricane Streets. Led the Portland Investment Initiative with $35M+ in neighborhood revitalization.

John Willmoth

Founder & Managing Partner · Poplar Ventures

Investor

Founder and Managing Partner of Poplar Ventures, backing B2B SaaS companies in middle America. Over three decades of corporate development and venture capital experience. Endeavor mentor and investor in successful exits including SkuVault.

Tendai Charasika

Partner & Chief Strategy Officer · Saling Wealth Advisors

Community Leader

UofL Entrepreneur in Residence. Former Executive Director of EnterpriseCorp and CEO of SuperFan U. UofL double alumnus (Chemical Engineering, Entrepreneurship MBA) and former varsity football player.

Jeff Gora

Founder · MAAR LLC

Community Leader

UofL Entrepreneur in Residence and founder of MAAR LLC, an executive consulting firm focused on innovation and strategic alignment. 15+ years of experience across medical device manufacturing, retail, education, and technology.

Bill Dawson

Co-Founder · PACT Health

Founder

UofL Entrepreneur in Residence and healthcare entrepreneur. Co-founded Renew Recovery, expanding to four addiction treatment locations in Kentucky before acquisition by Brightview Health in 2020. Currently co-founder of PACT Health.

Charley Miller

Co-Founder · MaybeItsFate

Founder

Co-founded MaybeItsFate, a member-owned cooperative and social club in Louisville. Previously co-founded TouchCast and served as a UofL Entrepreneur in Residence. Product manager and game designer with work for Hasbro, Intel, and ClearCompany.

Jeff Cummins

Founder · Birchwood Consulting

Founder

Former UofL Entrepreneur in Residence. Finance and business development executive with 20+ years in startups. Former CFO at Car Keys Express and Director of University Commercialization at EnterpriseCorp. Co-founder of Immersive Hearing Technologies.

Josh Nickols

CEO · Enhale Medical

Founder

Former UofL Entrepreneur in Residence. CEO of Enhale Medical, developing neuromodulation technology for sleep apnea. Previously founded InvisionHeart (sold 2016). PhD in Molecular Neuroscience and MBA from Vanderbilt.

Chris Bailey

COO · MRI Analytics

Founder

UofL Entrepreneur in Residence focused on manufacturing. COO at MRI Analytics overseeing operations, product development, and sales. Seasoned tech startup founder based in Louisville.

Jenn Callahan

Chief Visionary Officer · Amplify Louisville

Community Leader

Chief Visionary Officer at Amplify Louisville. Founded liveFire, a marketing solutions company. Former CMO at GoWild. Experienced in scaling startups with background at Service Net and AIG.

Amber Fields

Founder · Black UX Labs

Founder

Founder of Black UX Labs, a coaching and consulting firm for Black UX talent promoting diverse thought in the industry. UX researcher and Amplify Louisville Entrepreneur in Residence, providing strategic guidance to early-stage startups.

Tim Wolter

Founder & CEO · SafetyVue

Founder

Founder and CEO of SafetyVue, revolutionizing construction safety with AI-powered and VR training solutions. 15+ years in construction and technology. Host of The Safety Factor podcast. Based in the Louisville area.

Zeeshan Bhatti

Head of Platform · Keyhorse Capital

Investor

Head of Platform at Keyhorse Capital, providing capital and support to entrepreneurs building novel solutions. Former Business Services Economic Development Manager at Louisville Forward. Bellarmine University graduate.

Jack Crowdis

Growth · PayFWDs

Founder

Growth lead at PayFWDs and co-launcher of Cinderblock, an invitation-only shared workspace for startup builders in Louisville through KYCombinator. Experience scaling B2B marketing for venture-funded startups.

Rachel Edenfield

Founder & CEO · Swell

Founder

Founder and CEO of Swell, an AI-enabled mental health platform addressing the therapist shortage. Raised $1.6M from Keyhorse Capital, Bluegrass Angels, and others. Former product manager at Kinsa and Lyft. Social work background turned tech entrepreneur.

Natalia Bishop

Director of Innovation & Entrepreneurship · University of Louisville

Community Leader

Multiple-time founder and Director of Innovation and Entrepreneurship at UofL. Founded Story Louisville, the city's first startup-focused coworking space, and Level Up, an edtech platform for women. Originally from Colombia, 20+ years in Louisville.

Kela Ivonye

Co-Founder · Protege

Founder

Serial entrepreneur with two exits. Founded Arrow Food Couriers and MailHaven (acquired by Luxer One/Assa Abloy). Co-founded Protege, a nonprofit and micro fund for Black entrepreneurs. Amplify Louisville Entrepreneur in Residence.

Mark Crane

VP of Investor Relations · Venture First

Investor

EY Entrepreneur of the Year with 25+ years leading fast-growth companies. VP of Investor Relations at Venture First. General Partner of multiple funds including Sequel Fund and Strike Ventures. UofL College of Business lecturer and business coach.

Lisa Bajorinas

Executive Director · Kentucky Innovation Hubs

Community Leader

Executive Director of Kentucky Innovation Hubs and Vogt Awards Program Director at the Community Foundation of Louisville. Co-founded Louisville Enterprise Angels. Former leader of EnterpriseCorp. Silicon Valley alum with deep expertise in lean startup methodologies.

Bob Saunders

General Partner · OCA Ventures

Investor

General Partner at OCA Ventures and Co-Founder/Chairman of XLerateHealth, Louisville's healthcare accelerator. Former Senior Managing Director at Chrysalis Ventures. Mentored 100+ startups over 30+ years. Stanford, LSE, and Harvard graduate; Fulbright and Marshall Scholar.

Jackie Willmot

CEO & Co-Founder · XLerateHealth

Community Leader

CEO and Co-Founder of XLerateHealth, a healthcare accelerator cultivating innovation across the Midwest and Southeast since 2013. 30+ years in healthcare including 15 years as a Humana Innovation Center executive. NIH Principal Investigator for the XLeratorNetwork.

Will Metcalf

AVP for Research & Innovation · University of Louisville

Community Leader

Associate Vice President for Research and Innovation at UofL and Director of the Entrepreneurship Law Clinic. Co-founded LEAP. Leads UofL New Ventures and the NSF I-Corps program. PI on $5M+ in awards supporting technology-based entrepreneurship.

Brian Nutt

Founder & CEO · Codigo

Founder

Founder and CEO of Codigo, a Louisville-based company with proprietary digital signage and kiosk software deployed in 400+ financial institutions across the US.

Michael Browning

Co-Founder · Soaring Titan

Founder

Co-founded Onovative, a fintech marketing automation platform for financial institutions (acquired by Main Street Inc. in 2020). Now co-founder of Soaring Titan, elevating businesses through AI integration in Louisville.

Clay Turner

Technical Co-Founder · Soaring Titan

Founder

Technical co-founder of Soaring Titan, building AI agent systems for the enterprise. Previously co-founded Onovative (acquired 2020). Full-stack developer and architect with startup, VC fundraising, and exit experience across fintech, SaaS, and supply chain.

Garrett French

Founder · Citation Labs

Founder

Founder of Citation Labs, an enterprise link-building agency based in Louisville. Angel investor in 30+ local startups. Co-author of Ultimate Guide to Link Building. Active in Louisville's startup community through Venture Connectors and Startup Week.

Nate Royal

Co-Founder & CEO · Due Gooder

Founder

Co-founder and CEO of Due Gooder, an AI-driven student productivity platform. Computer science student and lifelong entrepreneur building edtech solutions in Louisville.

Susan Olson

President · Demeter Logistics

Founder

President of Demeter Logistics, digitizing logistics in commodities trading. Former COO of EdjAnalytics (data science/AI) and Managing Director at Genscape. PhD with deep expertise in data-driven decision making.

Jeff Squyres

Principal Engineer · Cisco

Mentor

Principal Engineer at Cisco and UofL lecturer. Teaches Git workshops to Louisville startup founders. Ph.D. with 20+ years in high-performance computing and open source software development.

John Williamson

Founder & CEO · RCM Brain

Founder

Serial software entrepreneur and Founder/CEO of RCM Brain, using AI and automation to improve healthcare revenue cycle management. Former product leader at ZirMed (now Waystar). Building tech products in Louisville since 2003.

Kahlil Garmon

Founder · Financial Literacy App

Founder

Louisville native and founder of an innovative financial literacy app described as the 'Duolingo of finance.' Data specialist and mentor at WKU Innovation Campus supporting student entrepreneurs.

Oliver Ardery

Global Lead, Policy Operations & Strategy · Google

Investor

Global Lead at Google and former Director of Corporate Development and Venture Capital at Humana. Based in Louisville with deep experience in venture capital, corporate development, and startup investment.

Trevor Pawl

CEO · Louisville Economic Development Alliance

Community Leader

First CEO of the Louisville Economic Development Alliance, appointed by Mayor Craig Greenberg. Previously served in Michigan Governor Whitmer's cabinet as Chief Mobility Officer, establishing 89 public-private partnerships and securing over $478 million for new projects. Brings 15+ years of economic development experience.

Vance VanDrake

Venture and Patent Partner · Frost Brown Todd

Mentor

IP, patent, and venture capital attorney at Frost Brown Todd specializing in startup intellectual property and business strategy. Active angel investor, co-founder of three startup companies, and author of The Patent Game. Frequent speaker and mentor for technology and entrepreneurship programs.

Jeff Guan

Professor, Former Interim Dean · UofL College of Business

Community Leader

Professor at the University of Louisville College of Business who served as Interim Dean from 2022 to 2025. Led academic innovations in the College of Business for nearly a decade and is active in Louisville's startup and entrepreneurship community.

Tommy Wallace

Market President, Commercial Banking · Old National Bank

Community Leader

Market President of Commercial Banking at Old National Bank in Louisville. Previously held leadership positions at PNC. Active supporter of Louisville's startup ecosystem and serves on the Amplify Startups board of directors.

Stacy Griggs

Co-Founder & CEO · El Toro

Founder

Co-founder and CEO of El Toro, a Louisville-based adtech company and Endeavor Entrepreneur. Has led three organizations recognized on the Inc. 500 list. Creator of El Toro's patented IP Targeting technology. Previously held leadership roles at AlignCloud, Cbeyond, and Hosting.com.

Matt Thornton

Founder & Principal · Thornton Capital

Investor

Founder of Thornton Capital, a Louisville-based family office focused on venture capital, real estate, and private equity. Former CEO and President of Thorntons, a 200-unit convenience store chain sold to BP/ArcLight in 2019. Board Chair of Endeavor Louisville.

Greg Pope

Office Managing Partner · EY

Community Leader

Office Managing Partner at EY in Louisville, leading a team of 240+ professionals. Board member of Endeavor Louisville, Fund for the Arts, and Kentucky College of Art + Design. Board Chair of the Leadership Louisville Center.

Doug Grissom

Senior Advisor · Madison Dearborn Partners

Investor

Louisville-based Senior Advisor at Madison Dearborn Partners on the Business & Government Software team. Board member at Churchill Downs, Endeavor Louisville, and James Graham Brown Foundation. Previously at Bain Capital, McKinsey, and Goldman Sachs.

Brook Smith

Co-Founder & Managing Partner · RSLP Ventures / Wabi Capital

Investor

Louisville-based serial entrepreneur and prolific private investor with stakes in nearly 100 companies. Co-founder of RSLP Ventures (pre-seed/seed VC) and Wabi Capital. Former founder/president of Smith Manus surety brokerage (sold to Acrisure). Board Chairman of Endeavor Louisville. Donated $2.5M to create the Brook T. Smith Accelerator at Clemson University.

Aaron Peabody

Co-Founder & CEO · Untitled

Founder

Co-founder and CEO of Untitled, a Louisville-based AI-powered audience intelligence platform founded in 2018. Former El Toro employee who launched Untitled with $400K in startup capital to help businesses innovate with data.

Connor Gaffney

Co-Founder & COO · Untitled

Founder

Co-founder and COO of Untitled. Former El Toro team member with expertise in data analytics and data storytelling. Built custom business models for Fortune 500 companies. Graduate of Laurentian University in Ontario, Canada.

Kramer Caswell

Co-Founder & VP of Marketing · Untitled

Founder

Co-founder and VP of Marketing at Untitled. Former El Toro team member who helped launch the company in 2018 with $400K in startup capital. Led the transition from services to SaaS with the Distilled platform, raising $5.4M in total capital.

Mac Wilkinson

Founder & CEO · Moolathon

Founder

Founder and CEO of Moolathon, a performance-based fundraising platform that lets groups raise money through walking, running, and biking. Louisville native and former professional basketball player who played internationally for eight years. TechStars Washington DC alum. Background in graphic design and branding with clients including Nike and ANTA.

Raechele Gray Smalls

Program Director · Invest Blue KY / Launch Blue Ventures

Community Leader

Program Director at Invest Blue KY and Director of Launch Blue Ventures. Former Lead for Access to Capital at Endeavor and inaugural Vogt Innovator at 1804 Entrepreneur Center. Alumna of VC Unlocked (500 Startups / Stanford). Serial entrepreneur and ecosystem builder focused on advancing equity in Louisville's startup community. MBA from Eastern Kentucky University.

JK McKnight

Founder · Brandjam / Art of Impact

Founder

Serial entrepreneur and creator of The Forecastle Festival, one of Louisville's premier outdoor music festivals drawing 75,000+ attendees annually with $15M+ economic impact. Founder of Brandjam, a tech company connecting beverage alcohol brands to consumers, and Art of Impact, an experiential agency specializing in festival consulting. Named Southern Living's 'Southerner of the Year' in 2017.

Nick McRae

CEO · BroadLoop

Founder

CEO of BroadLoop, a construction-tech Paving Intelligence Platform helping asphalt contractors measure and improve performance through GPS fleet management and dispatch software. Techstars '21 alum. Previously founded McRae Technologies in 2010, working with clients including Lids, Texas Roadhouse, and Samtec. Rising Star in Entrepreneurship honoree from the University of Louisville. MBA in Entrepreneurship from UofL.

Patrick Mann

Managing Partner & CEO · Louisville Geek

Founder

Founder and Managing Partner of Louisville Geek, a managed IT services provider with 100+ employees founded in 2004. Inc. 5000 honoree and 10-time Business First Fast 50 winner. YPO member. University of Alabama graduate.

Lyle Donan

Founder & Managing Partner · Room & Pillar

Founder

Serial entrepreneur and investor across InsurTech and PropTech. Third-generation leader of Donan (founded 1947), growing it to a national forensic engineering firm before a majority recapitalization in 2021. Co-founded Seek Now and Source7. Now manages a portfolio of ventures through Room & Pillar. EY Entrepreneur of the Year (Technology, 2014). Professional Engineer.

Joe Papalia

Co-Founder & CEO · Deposition Technology Innovations

Founder

Co-founded Deposition Technology Innovations (DTI) in 2009, now the largest privately-owned vacuum thin film coating company in North America. Based in Jeffersonville, IN, DTI serves medical, aerospace, defense, and energy sectors. MIT graduate with an MBA from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute.

Wright Steenrod

Founder · workmatch

Founder

Business development professional focused on helping management teams grow businesses with data and information. Active in talent development and workforce trends in the Louisville region.

Mausam Mathur

Founder · Blue Horizons Group

Founder

Integrator of people, purpose, and platforms with 20+ years of experience in project management and business consulting.

Sunny Dronawat

Entrepreneur & Board Chair · Louisville Water Company

Community Leader

Distinguished entrepreneur and innovator. Founded and scaled POS on Cloud (merged with Newtek in 2019). Chairs Louisville Water Company and serves on the board of Jefferson Community and Technical College. Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and MBA from University of Louisville.

Karan Shah

Founder & Managing Partner · PC3 Health

Founder

Emergency medicine physician and healthcare entrepreneur. Founded PC3 Health (Physician Care Coordination Consultants). Board member of the Kentucky Board of Medical Licensure, Louisville Metro Board of Health, and Hosparus Health. MD from Wake Forest, MMHC from Vanderbilt.

Ricky Mason

Founder & CEO · BrainSTEM EdTech Solutions

Founder

EdTech entrepreneur and former NASA rocket scientist and CIA engineer. Founded BrainSTEM EdTech Solutions, bringing VR and AR immersive learning to classrooms since 2019. Organizer of the Louisville S.T.E.A.M Festival.

Srinivasa Raju Eedarapalli

Founder & CEO · pramā

Founder

Founder and CEO of pramā, an enterprise omnichannel experience management platform. Previously led TA Strategy & Innovation and Retail Innovation at Humana.

J. Kevin Porter

Managing Partner · Porter Sablan Capital

Investor

Co-founder and Managing Partner of Porter Sablan Capital, a private investment firm helping founder-led companies grow. Over 20 years of entrepreneurial experience with a background in public accounting and transaction advisory.

Todd Creek

CEO · AIBES

Founder

CEO of AIBES (AI Business Engineers), helping organizations achieve enterprise-grade AI outcomes. Designed and teaches the first AI class for the University of Louisville College of Business Executive Education Program. Background in financial markets and energy trading.

Michael Francis

CEO & Founder · Sedrino Labs

Founder

Founder and CEO of Sedrino Labs, an AI-powered coding platform that generates full-stack applications. Previously founded Clover Learning and SolariumVR.

Rron Thaci

Venture Capital Investor · Keyhorse Capital

Investor

VC investor at Keyhorse Capital, combining hands-on startup experience with early-stage investing to back founders driving growth and innovation in Kentucky.

Shankar Ram

EVP & Global Head of Strategy & Partnerships, Healthcare · Mastercard

Founder

Global executive with over 30 years of experience in financial services and healthcare. EVP and Global Head of Strategy & Partnerships, Healthcare at Mastercard. Previously Head of Strategic Alignment and Integration at Humana.

Bobby Bailey

Co-Founder & Managing Partner · Louisville Geek

Founder

Co-founder and Managing Partner of Louisville Geek, a Louisville-based IT services company founded in 2004. University of Louisville graduate.

David Lopez

Entrepreneur in Residence · Amplify Louisville

Community Leader

Founder and Principal Consultant of Valor Insights LLC and Chair of the Louisville Hispanic Chamber of Commerce. Over 20 years of experience in business development, executive leadership, and program operations.

Jackson Andrews

Managing Director · Endeavor Louisville

Community Leader

Founding Managing Director of Endeavor KY, IN, OH. Named to the Power 50 list of Louisville's most influential business leaders. Previously Managing Director at Spouting Rock Capital Advisors. Board member of 1804.

Christian Miller

Partner · Bluegrass Alpha Partners

Investor

Partner at Bluegrass Alpha Partners. Previously CEO of Dealer Trade Network. MBA in Finance & Strategic Management from Purdue University, degrees from Bellarmine University.

Jack Danehy

Angel Investor & Board Member · Venture First

Investor

Active angel investor since 2000 with investments in 22 startups and multiple successful exits including Zirmed, Telapoint, and Vita-Stat. Former senior manager at IBM. Board member at Venture First.

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