About Startgnv

StartGNV is a nonprofit organization dedicated to driving innovation and fostering economic growth in North Central Florida. As a collective of innovators, entrepreneurs, and community stakeholders, we are committed to building a diverse and inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that enhances social equity and creates lasting opportunities. Our bold vision is to position North Central Florida as a nationally recognized hub for wealth creation, innovation, and high quality of life.

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Scott Schroeder

Executive Director, StartGNV

As Executive Director of StartGNV, Scott Schroeder leads the organization’s efforts to grow and support Gainesville’s thriving innovation and tech ecosystem. With a passion for community-building and economic development, Scott works to connect entrepreneurs, startups, and investors, fostering an environment where innovation and business growth can flourish. In his role, he oversees strategic initiatives, partnerships, and events that drive momentum for Gainesville’s startup community. Scott brings a wealth of experience in leadership, operations, and community engagement to ensure StartGNV continues to serve as a catalyst for innovation in North Central Florida.

About Our Board

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Jessica Tittl Nielsen

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Zac Burke

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Stacy Burrell

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Jessica Tittl Nielsen

Jessica Tittl Nielsen is the Co-founder and CEO of Cordelia Biosciences, an innovative chemical company dedicated to creating sustainable blue chemistry from oceanic microscopic organisms. With a divers background that spans microbial genomics, chemistry, business management, and intellectual property strategy, Jessica adeptly bridges various disciplines to foster innovation. Her goal is to develop products and systems that are in harmony with the environment, aiming for a sustainable future.

Jessica is also deeply committed to empowering women, encouraging them to pursue executive leadership and entrepreneurial roles with confidence. Her involvement in StartGNV is driven by her desire to equip aspiring entrepreneurs with the necessary tools and inspiration to achieve their ambitions and contribute to a better tomorrow.

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Zac Burke

Zachary Burke is the Director of Media & Interactive at Multi Image Group and a proud graduate of the University of Florida with a B.S. in computer software engineering.

With extensive experience in learning new technologies and methodologies, he has designed and developed video games, responsive and scalable enterprise web applications, and explored the growing market of virtual and mixed reality experiences.

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Stacy Burrell

Stacy Burrell is a seasoned professional known for his leadership, resourcefulness, and analytical skills, with a proven ability to collaborate effectively with business units and cross-functional teams.

He has extensive industry experience in retail, energy, high tech, e-commerce, and manufacturing, having held a variety of roles in finance and strategy. Stacy holds a BBA in Accountancy from Western Michigan University and an MBA with a Finance and Strategy focus from Columbia Business School. As the current VP of Finance at Consero Global, he brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to his role, driving financial strategies and initiatives that support the company’s growth and success.