Eric Mathews

Eric Mathews is a champion for community & entrepreneurial change. Beginning in 2006, he began creating entrepreneurial ecosystem components in Memphis, Tennessee. In 2008, Eric founded Start Co. (formerly called LaunchMemphis & LaunchYourCity, Inc.), the region's venture development organization where he serves as CEO. Start Co. supports entrepreneurs at the earliest stages of starting up from raw idea forward. It includes technical assistance, investment capital, acceleration, and resource cultivation for an inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Prior to these endeavors, Eric was the Associate Director of Corporate Research & Development at the FedEx Institute of Technology. There he grew research programs & business development activities including growing strategic business relationships with Fortune 500 companies. Eric has a B.S. in Chemistry from Rhodes College, & a M.S. in Cognitive Psychology from the University of Memphis where he studied artificial intelligence. He has been quoted hundreds of times in many media outlets on building startups as well as the use and influence of innovation in business. With a passion for supporting the arts, Eric currently serves on the board of BalletMemphis. In 2012, Eric also served a one year appointment as interim Executive Director of EmergeMemphis the Midsouth's business incubator while still building Start Co. Eric is the author of From Garage to Greatness: Succinct First Steps for Early Stage Entrepreneurs, an accessible book for first time entrepreneurs and those supporting them about how to move from idea to business launch. Eric invested in building product, medical device manufacturing, & real estate businesses in the Midsouth with his family. Eric is an Eagle Scout, YEC member, and board member to the Global Accelerator Network (formerly TechStars Network).