For nearly two decades, one New Orleans organization has been supporting the city’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. The Idea Village runs an accelerator program for local startups, as well as producing the major festival called New Orleans Entrepreneur Week each year.
The Idea Village recently announced several new hires, a promotion, and newly appointed board members.
“For the past year, we’ve been building a team internally that aligns with our vision for the future of The Idea Village,” said Jon Atkinson, CEO. “Our team is now positioned to continue to bolster the region’s startup scene, assisting entrepreneurs as they grow their companies from small startups to larger, more scalable companies. Our work will help ensure longevity for business in New Orleans and the health and diversity of our local economy.”
The Idea Village provided the following information about the new hires and appointments:
Tamra Olin – Hired as Development and Strategic Planning Associate
A graduate of UC Berkeley Class of 2018 with a degree in Environmental Economics, Olin comes to The Idea Village through Venture for America as the Development and Strategic Planning Associate. Olin brings with her a background in economic research as well as former experience working in nonprofits and the financial technology industry. Speaking about the opportunity Olin said, “I am excited to build upon the work Idea Village has done, and I hope to continue to help expand access to capital, mentorship and opportunities for the entrepreneurs of New Orleans.”
Hailey Klemenok – Hired as Promotions and Programs Coordinator
Klemenok, who previously worked in the nonprofit sector as both a staffer and an AmeriCorps member, brings with her a background in marketing, public relations and advertising, as well as social media management. She will be joining The Idea Village as the Promotions and Programs Coordinator, where she will fulfill marketing and social media needs, as well as assist in the implementation and execution of New Orleans Entrepreneur Week and accelerator programs. “I look forward to helping develop and support the entrepreneurs of New Orleans as they continue to bring new jobs, economic prosperity, and big ideas to their communities,” Klemenok says.
Brenna Kane, MBA – Promoted to Chief Operating Officer
Kane is a graduate of Loyola University New Orleans where she received her MBA with a specialization in Entrepreneurship in 2018. She previously served as the Senior Associate for Entrepreneurial Services for The Idea Village and has been promoted to Chief Operating Officer effective April 2019. Kane is passionate about startups and working to move New Orleans into a prosperous new chapter through entrepreneurship, growth and innovation. She will oversee all operations at The Idea Village, including the coordination of NOEW, strategic partnerships, and The Idea Village accelerator programs. “I look forward to using the strength of our brand and our growing team to foster new ideas, build stronger companies, and continue to impact the entrepreneurial landscape of New Orleans,” Kane says.
Dr. Robert A “Bobby” Savoie, PhD – Appointed to Board of Directors
Dr. Savoie, Chief Executive Officer of Geocent, is the newest addition to the Idea Village Board of Directors. Dr. Savoie brings to the Board an extensive background working in the information technology and engineering industries, specifically in government advisory roles and as CEO. Additionally, under his tenure numerous companies have been founded and have experienced monumental growth and expansion, bringing with them new jobs and economic prosperity. Dr. Savoie is also an active humanitarian. He currently serves on the Board of Directors for multiple local and national foundations and companies. Idea Village looks forward to having Dr. Savoie join the efforts to develop and support New Orleans entrepreneurs. On joining the board, Savoie says, “This is an exciting time for entrepreneurship in New Orleans. I hope my service on the Board of The Idea Village can be of some small help to our emerging entrepreneurs.”
To date, The Idea Village has supported more than 8,900 entrepreneurs and provided $27.9 in resources. Visit www.ideavillage.org to learn more.