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]]>Since its launch in 2017, the Growth Lab has graduated over 119 companies, supporting more than 4,536 jobs and raising over $933 million in funding.
The companies joining Cohort 17 include tech startups focused on industries from education to AI.
The companies comprising Cohort 17 include:
“Our Growth Lab companies come into the program with a clear sense of purpose,” said Brian Richardson, CEO of StartOut. “Cohort 17 brings new startups with real momentum. Through Growth Lab, they’ll gain the connections and community to grow faster—and StartOut is proud to support this group of founders in this stage of their entrepreneurial journey.”
Founders who are accepted into Growth Lab have the opportunity to access networking, educational resources, and mentorship. The program is sponsored by J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking.
“We’re excited to welcome the latest cohort of founders to the Growth Lab. From AI to edtech to telehealth, these founders are driving meaningful innovation, and we’re proud to support their journeys by providing access to educational resources, networking, and opportunities to access capital,” said David Barbee, J.P. Morgan’s Head of Transaction Development for Global Banking and Head of LGBTQ+ Initiatives for Commercial Banking.
To learn more about the StartOut Growth Lab, including details on the application process for the next cohort, visit: startout.org/growth-lab.
About StartOut
Founded in 2009, StartOut, a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is the largest national organization to expand economic opportunity for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with over 24K active community members nationwide. Its mission is to increase opportunity and success for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. StartOut helps aspiring entrepreneurs start new companies; supports current entrepreneurs as they grow and expand their existing businesses; and engages successful entrepreneurs as role models and mentors, on its online portal and through targeted events nationwide. For more information, please visit www.startout.org.
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]]>The post StartOut Expands Leadership with Three New Board Members and Director of Operations appeared first on StartOut.
]]>“These leaders represent the very best of what StartOut stands for: innovation, resilience, and community,” said Genesis Garcia, StartOut Board Chair. “Sidd, Alexander-Ali, and Traci are all successful entrepreneurs who know firsthand the challenges of building companies. Their voices will strengthen our board as we guide StartOut’s next chapter of growth.”
Sidd and Traci are both alums of StartOut’s Growth Lab accelerator program who led their respective companies through successful acquisitions. Alexander-Ali has been a longtime StartOut volunteer and host committee member for the annual StartOut Awards, with his company serving as a sponsor for the last two years.
In addition to the new board members, Cori Coccia joined the StartOut staff in the newly created role of Director of Operations, bringing extensive nonprofit management experience and a track record of leading organizations with strong operational foundations. Cori previously served as Executive Director of the nonprofit GirlVentures.
“Cori’s leadership in nonprofit operations will be instrumental as StartOut grows to meet the needs of LGBTQ+ founders nationwide,” said Brian Richardson, StartOut CEO. “Her ability to align strategy with execution will ensure we can deliver greater impact.”
Each of the new leaders brings a unique background and proven record of impact.
Alexander-Ali Dalipi (he/him)
For more than 25 years, Alexander-Ali Dalipi has led in human resources and payroll, designing systems that enhance efficiency and support organizational growth. As founder and CEO of HR1Systems, he provides full client-side and vendor implementation and strategic services for small to midsize companies. Under his leadership, HR1Systems became a corporate sponsor of the StartOut Awards since 2023. He is currently pursuing a Doctorate of Education in Organizational Leadership, Development, and Change at Lehman College and holds a Master’s in Human Resources Development from Villanova University. With certifications in PHR, SHRM-CP, National Payroll Compliance, and Data Analytics, Alexander-Ali is also a frequent national speaker on HR and payroll innovation.
Sidd Gavirneni (he/him)
Sidd Gavirneni is a cybersecurity entrepreneur, executive, and LGBTQ+ advocate who has lived and led across India, Spain, and the United States. He founded Zeguro, one of the first startups to integrate cybersecurity and cyber insurance for SMBs, which was later acquired by HSB, a Munich Re company. Today, Sidd leads cyber products at HSB while serving on DEI committees at both HSB and Munich Re. A StartOut Growth Lab alum and recipient of the 2019 StartOut Next Generation Award, Sidd remains deeply connected to the StartOut community as a mentor and Growth Lab selection committee member. He continues to champion purpose-driven leadership, believing true success is measured in how many people you empower along the way.
Traci Keen (she/her)
Traci Keen is an accomplished Founder, CEO, strategic advisor and CFO with a track record of leading mission-driven companies through rapid growth, operational transformation, and successful exit. A recognized fertility innovator, she has pioneered the use of digital tools, AI-driven clinical support, and scalable infrastructure to expand access to care and empower generalist providers. Over the course of her career, Traci has raised more than $25M in venture capital and debt, led complex M&A transactions, and advised startups and growth-stage companies on strategic finance, fundraising, and operational clarity. She is known for her ability to navigate complexity with both empathy and precision, bringing a rare blend of vision, execution, and emotional intelligence to every table she sits at.
Cori Coccia – Director of Operations (she/they)
StartOut also welcomed Cori Coccia as its new Director of Operations. Cori has worked in the nonprofit sector since 1999, dedicating their early career to expanding equitable access to the outdoors for LGBTQ+, BIPOC, and low-income communities. At StartOut, Cori brings deep expertise in nonprofit operations, organizational leadership, team development, and financial management systems. They are passionate about strengthening systems that support sustainable work culture and lasting impact.
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]]>The post StartOut Announces New Startup Cohort for Growth Lab Accelerator, Driving Business Growth appeared first on StartOut.
]]>“Our Growth Lab founders are builders, risk-takers and visionaries,” said StartOut CEO Brian Richardson. “This group has the talent and drive to transform industries—and Growth Lab gives them the knowledge, resources and network to transform together. StartOut is here for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs at every step of their journey.”
“Hailing from Ohio to London – the breadth of backgrounds, markets and industries that comprise Cohort 16 is truly noteworthy. I look forward to seeing the ideas and strategies these founders glean from the program, as well as from one another over the course of the next several months,” said David Barbee, Managing Director, Head of Transaction Development for Global Banking at J.P. Morgan. “We’re proud to support Cohort 16 in their business pursuits.”
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]]>The post StartOut and Eidos Report Sharp Declines in Diversity within Entrepreneurial Pipelines appeared first on StartOut.
]]>“This research marks a significant milestone in our efforts to study and understand the existence of the ‘leaky pipeline’, a phenomenon where underrepresented groups are disproportionately lost at various stages of entrepreneurial journeys,” said Irene Tang, co-author of the report and Director of Data and Insights at StartOut.
Key Insights from the Report:
“As a longtime researcher of diversity in entrepreneurship, I find the StartOut and Eidos research results discouraging. If StartOut, with its dedicated diversity programs, experiences this leakage, it’s likely much worse for LGBTQ and racially diverse founders in less attentive organizations. This highlights the need for data collection to identify systemic bias and track our progress, holding us accountable,” said Waverly Deutsch, startup mentor and retired entrepreneurship professor at The University of Chicago Booth School of Business. “Diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s vital for innovation and economic success.”
The report also provides targeted recommendations to improve diversity within accelerator programs:
“While analyzing the impact of our programs, we observed a concerning decline in the participation of especially underrepresented founders as they progressed through our programs and services. This led to a collaboration between StartOut departments to analyze new strategies and approaches to enhance our commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging for all our founder members,” said Tarik Perkins, co-author of the report and Chief Programs Officer at StartOut.
“LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs are essential in shaping the future of our communities, building the businesses and services that foster long-term wellbeing. However, many face significant barriers, particularly those who belong to racial, gender, and sexual minority groups. Our collaboration with StartOut underscores the critical need for equitable support for all LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and highlights the importance of supporting StartOut’s commitment to addressing the leaky pipeline for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. By identifying and addressing these gaps, StartOut can ensure their programs are both inclusive and evidence-based, paving the way for every entrepreneur to thrive,” said Eidos in a statement on the significance of this research.
Explore the Findings & Sponsorship
To download the report summary or to explore the full report, “Diminished Diversity in Entrepreneurial Pipelines” visit startout.org/insights.
StartOut’s research was sponsored by Tawani Foundation. For further questions, or to contribute as a sponsor, contact [email protected].
About Eidos
The Eidos LGBTQ+ Health Initiative at the University of Pennsylvania engages leaders from community, academic, civic, and business spheres to co-create innovative solutions that ensure impact for LGBTQ+ communities. We take an action-oriented, world-class evidence-based approach to further the sustained well-being of the LGBTQ+ community.
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]]>The post StartOut Announces New Board Leadership and Assignments appeared first on StartOut.
]]>“Our new officers – like all our board members – bring experience, passion and commitment to their roles,” said StartOut CEO Brian Richardson (he/him). “With their leadership, StartOut will continue to create new and better opportunities for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.”
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]]>The post StartOut Announces StartOut Con: A New Signature Event Designed for LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs appeared first on StartOut.
]]>“In these challenging times, we need StartOut Con as the best place to celebrate and amplify LGBTQ+ entrepreneurial success,” said Brian Richardson, CEO of StartOut. “This in-person extravaganza will equip individual founders with the tools and networks they need while also connecting our community, so we can grow and thrive together.”
A Platform for Growth and Innovation
StartOut Con will feature a dynamic mix of breakout sessions, main-stage discussions, and networking opportunities, fostering collaboration and innovation. The event will bring together:
With a focus on action and impact, StartOut Con will serve as a catalyst for new opportunities, ensuring LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs have the support they need to succeed.
More details, including speakers and session topics, will be announced soon. For updates and registration information, visit startout.org/events/startout-con/.
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]]>The post StartOut Announces New Growth Lab Accelerator Cohort To Support LGBTQ+ Entrepreneurs appeared first on StartOut.
]]>March 4, 2025 — StartOut, the largest nonprofit organization supporting LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs, today announced the latest cohort of startups accepted into the Growth Lab Accelerator, a five-month program that facilitates critical opportunities for growth and development tailored to LGBTQ+ founders.
StartOut’s flagship program provides the group of founders with access to funding, educational resources, mentorship and networking prospects.The Growth Lab has helped 102 companies grow since inception in 2017, culminating in a total of 4,311 jobs supported and more than $909 million fundraised across the program’s lifetime.
“Each startup selected for Cohort 15 is leading equitable solutions that tackle distinct challenges, and we are excited to see several leveraging innovative technologies such as AI to further advance their mission,” said Brian Richardson, CEO of StartOut. “We look forward to serving as partners with each company and their respective founders to create lasting impact and promote growth.”
The companies selected to join Cohort 15 include:
The program is co-sponsored by J.P. Morgan and McDermott Will & Emery. To learn more about the StartOut Growth Lab, including details on the application process for the next cohort, visit: startout.org/growth-lab
About StartOut
Founded in 2009, StartOut, a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is the largest national organization to support LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with over 28K members nationwide. Its mission is to accelerate the growth of the LGBTQ+ community to drive its economic empowerment, building a world where every LGBTQ+ entrepreneur has equal access to lead, succeed, and shape the workforce of the future. StartOut helps aspiring LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs start new companies; supports current entrepreneurs as they grow and expand their existing businesses; and engages successful entrepreneurs as role models and mentors, on its online portal and through targeted events nationwide. For more
information, please visit www.startout.org.
Media Contact
StartOut
Christa Kilday
[email protected]
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]]>The post StartOut Elects Four New Board Members appeared first on StartOut.
]]>“StartOut will be stronger thanks to Riana, Serena, Jason, and Lorenzo,” said Mohit Jolly, StartOut Board Chair. “Their knowledge, networks, and leadership will enable us to propel even more LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs forward, creating new economic opportunities for us all.”
Each incoming director brings significant experience and connections in the entrepreneurship ecosystem. Riana Lynn, a serial entrepreneur and innovator, has been recognized as a thought leader in food technology and venture capital. Serena Poon has built a career in startup banking, advising pre-series to Series B founders in the clean tech sector. Jason Scott, a seasoned venture capitalist and startup ecosystem builder, has led initiatives to support diverse founders and foster innovation through early-stage investments. Lorenzo Thione helped found StartOut as an entrepreneur, and continues to advocate for inclusion in both business and the arts, and is a leader in investment, AI, and storytelling to champion underrepresented voices.
“This is a transformative moment for StartOut,” said CEO Brian Richardson. “Welcoming the largest cohort of new board members in our history underscores the richness of talent within the LGBTQ+ community. Their diverse geographies, lived experiences, and professional expertise reflect the strength of the StartOut ecosystem and will guide us as we continue to create more opportunities for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs.”
As StartOut continues to expand its programs and initiatives, the organization remains committed to building a more inclusive economy by elevating LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs across industries and regions. The new directors join at an integral time, as the Board of Directors is working on a new strategic vision for the organization, having recently surveyed members nationwide on their needs and opportunities.
Riana Lynn, a former StartOut mentor based in Atlanta, is a trailblazing entrepreneur and AI consultant dedicated to revolutionizing the global food system. As the founder and CEO of Journey Foods, Riana leads innovative, data-driven solutions to tackle critical nutrition and supply chain challenges, with a focus on sustainability and accessibility. Her pioneering work in AI data patents for generative recipes and her role as a World Economic Forum Tech Pioneer underscore her commitment to shaping a fairer, more efficient food industry.
Serena Poon serves as Senior Vice President at Silicon Valley Bank in San Francisco, where she works with early-stage to Series B companies in the clean tech sector. Beyond her banking career, Serena co-founded Prism, a network supporting queer founders in tech and life sciences. Her dedication to creating safe spaces for LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs and her leadership roles in community organizations like Progressive Asian American Christians (PAAC) highlight her commitment to fostering inclusive environments.
Jason Scott, Founding General Partner at Five Two Five, brings a global perspective to early-stage venture investing. His previous roles include leading startup developer ecosystems at Google and founding initiatives like the Black Angel Group and Net Zero Angels. Jason’s extensive experience in supporting diverse startup communities is a testament to his passion for nurturing innovation across different sectors. Jason is currently based in New York City.
Lorenzo Thione, a StartOut co-founder and Managing Director at Gaingels, returns to the board after a one-year hiatus. Lorenzo’s multifaceted career spans entrepreneurship, investment, AI advocacy, and Broadway production. Currently residing in Chicago, his work with Gaingels and his dedication to underrepresented founders and inclusive storytelling reflect his unwavering support for diversity in both business and the arts.
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]]>The post StartOut and J.P. Morgan Announce New Cohort of LGBTQ+ Owned Startups For Growth Lab Accelerator appeared first on StartOut.
]]>September 9, 2024 — The Growth Lab Accelerator, a joint project between StartOut and J.P. Morgan, today announced the newest selection of startups added to the program. The five-month program provides founders with critical access to resources for funding, networking, education and mentorship to promote long-term growth and more equitable access to opportunities within the current business climate.
The Growth Lab has helped 93 companies grow since launching in 2017, helping support a total of 4,216+ jobs and raising more than $892 million in fundraising across the program’s lifetime. As the co-lead sponsor of the program, J.P. Morgan grants Growth Lab participants with access to the firm’s global network of experts and resources.
“The entrepreneurs of Cohort 14 are driving innovation across a variety of industries, demonstrating a deep understanding of the challenges different communities and customers face, and creating effective solutions needed to address them,” said David Barbee, Managing Director, Head of Business
Development for Capital and Advisory Solutions and Head of LGBTQ+ initiatives for J.P. Morgan Commercial Banking. “We are proud to provide services and resources from the firm to help these leaders scale and achieve long-term success.”
The companies selected to join Cohort 14 include:
• ADEii Health (Los Angeles, CA): Provides resources for behavioral health and mental wellness treatment to school districts, higher education institutions, community health organizations and healthcare providers.
• Delve Deep Learning (Washington, DC): Develops AI technologies to aid intelligence gathering within the public affairs sector.
• Gritty in Pink (Los Angeles, CA): Hosts a digital platform to spotlight female talent and bolster hiring across the music industry.
• Paldara Pharmaceuticals (Stillwater, OK): Offers innovative drug delivery technology to treat up to 99% of antibiotic-resistant bacterial infections.
• Shimmer (San Francisco, CA): Empowers individuals with ADHD by providing life coaching and mental wellness services.
• The Builder Market (Los Angeles, CA): Connects more than 2 million construction and home services professionals via a powerful and proprietary new social media platform.
• The Rave (Mexico City, MX): Hosts a digital tool integrated into e-commerce websites to provide customers with real cash rewards upon purchases.
• Tripiamo (New York, NY): Provides international travelers with professional, locally-verified online guides for driving abroad.
• Voda (London, UK): Services the LGBTQ+ community with mental health resources to support with gender and identity-specific topics.
“Each company in this cohort is united by a shared commitment to promoting equity, enhancing wellness and fostering innovation within their community and at the global level,” said Brian Richardson, CEO of StartOut. “We are excited to reach our 5th year in partnership with J.P. Morgan and look forward to another successful cohort of entrepreneurs.”
To learn more about the StartOut Growth Lab, including details on the application process for the next cohort, visit: startout.org/growth-lab
For more information on the financial solutions available to guide business growth, visit: jpmorgan.com/commercial-banking and to learn more about JPMorgan Chase’s commitment to the LGBTQ+ community, visit jpmorganchase.com/lgbtq
About StartOut
Founded in 2009, StartOut, a national 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, is the largest national organization to support LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs with over 28K members nationwide. Its mission is to accelerate the growth of the LGBTQ+ community to drive its economic empowerment, building a world where every LGBTQ+ entrepreneur has equal access to lead, succeed, and shape the workforce of the future. StartOut helps aspiring LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs start new companies; supports current entrepreneurs as they grow and expand their existing businesses; and engages successful entrepreneurs as role models and mentors, on its online portal and through targeted events nationwide. For more
information, please visit www.startout.org.
About JPMorganChase
JPMorgan Chase & Co. (NYSE: JPM) is a leading financial services firm based in the United States of America (“U.S.”), with operations worldwide. JPMorgan Chase had $4.1 trillion in assets and $341 billion in stockholders’; equity as of June 30, 2024. The Firm is a leader in investment banking, financial services
for consumers and small businesses, commercial banking, financial transaction processing and asset management. Under the J.P. Morgan and Chase brands, the Firm serves millions of customers in the U.S., and many of the world’s most prominent corporate, institutional and government clients globally.
Information about JPMorgan Chase & Co. is available at www.jpmorganchase.com
Media Contacts
StartOut
Christa Kilday
[email protected]
JPMorganChase
Marguerite Ward
[email protected]
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]]>The post StartOut Welcomes Sean E. Mickens to Board of Directors appeared first on StartOut.
]]>“We are incredibly honored to have Sean Mickens join our board,” said Brian Richardson, CEO of StartOut. “Sean’s expertise and his dedication to fostering inclusivity and equity align perfectly with our mission to empower LGBTQ+ entrepreneurs. We look forward to his contributions as we continue to expand our impact. Furthermore, Comcast NBCUniversal and the Comcast Foundation have been invaluable partners to StartOut over the years, providing critical support for initiatives such as the StartOut GrowthLab, the StartOut Index, and The StartOut Awards. ”
With an extensive background in tech policy and public affairs, Sean brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the StartOut board. Before his tenure at Comcast, Sean was a Public Policy Manager at Meta Platforms, Inc. (formerly Facebook), where he managed strategic outreach, partnerships, and engagement with progressive and civil rights think tanks. His experience advising nonprofits and philanthropies on public policy research, strategic planning, and issue advocacy further underscores his commitment to driving meaningful change in the tech sector and beyond.
Sean has a long history of advocating for marginalized communities, and his work has often focused on the intersectionality of various identities within the LGBTQ+ community.
“Supporting marginalized communities is not just about addressing individual challenges, but about recognizing the interconnectedness of our experiences,” said Sean. “The LGBTQ+ community embodies this intersectionality, and I am excited to contribute to StartOut’s mission of uplifting and empowering these voices.”
Sean studied at the London School of Economics and Political Science as a Luard-Morse scholar and graduated summa cum laude and Phi Beta Kappa from Howard University. His expertise, combined with his passion for advancing digital equity and technology policy, will be invaluable as StartOut continues to champion diversity and innovation in the entrepreneurial space.
Learn more about the programs Comcast has supported at StartOut Growth Lab and StartOut Index.
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