Gary Robinson

Gary Robinson, born in Atlanta, GA, is a trailblazing entrepreneur, business consultant, and life coach with decades of experience. Growing up in Hyde Park, Chicago, and graduating from Lakeside High School in Atlanta, he made history as the first graduate of any HBCU to earn a degree in Entrepreneurship from Hampton University, where he managed a landscaping business and invested in real estate.

Since founding his first business in 1991, Gary has built a legacy of leadership. As a mortgage broker with Americare Mortgage, he rose to partner and bought out the original owner within 18 months. He later secured government contracts, including one with the U.S. Department of Commerce, which led to the founding of the National Entrepreneurship Association to support aspiring entrepreneurs.

Gary’s leadership extended to roles like partner at Out the Box Web Productions, where he secured a $5 million contract for GIS systems in New Orleans before Hurricane Katrina reshaped his career. Moving to Orangeburg, SC, in 2014, Gary became a Business Consultant with the South Carolina Small Business Development Center (SBDC), aiding dozens of businesses and helping clients secure millions in funding. His achievements include founding a Cooperative for SC farmers, mentoring college students to launch an import/export business, acquiring funding for a community center, and supporting a grassroots political PAC for local reforms.

Now, as Executive Director of the Orangeburg Regional Innovation Center (ORIC), Gary leads economic development across eight counties, providing resources and training for entrepreneurs. A devoted husband and father, he continues to inspire communities and future leaders through his passion for innovation and service.