Inclusion | Impact | Innovation | Investments
Internationally recognized, award-winning startup ecosystem architect, investing deeply in inclusive innovation & in those solving the world's toughest problems.
About
TLDR: Jason builds and invests in companies, advises leaders, mentors kids, speaks around the globe, and loves some 90's hiphop.Over the course of a 20+ year career in the startup space, Jason Towns has led, advised, and invested in dozens of courageous teams, solving problems around the globe. He previously served as Managing Director of the Techstars Future of Longevity Accelerator, a partnership with Pivotal Ventures, an investment and incubation company created by Melinda Gates. He founded Groundwork, focusing on driving capital and resources into overlooked innovation ecosystems. Prior to this, Jason served as Director of Entrepreneurship Programs at Code2040 in San Francisco where he launched the Google for Entrepreneurs (now Google for Startups) Residency. He’s also led work with the Uncharted Social Impact Accelerator to support early-stage agriculture tech innovation in Durban, South Africa.Jason has served as a Senior Advisor at the Millennial Policy Initiative’s Commission on the Future of Work. He’s also received numerous professional distinctions such as being named to The Root's list of the 100 Most Influential African Americans, The Digital Diversity Network Change Agent Award, The Registry's 40 Under 40 in Silicon Valley, MIPAD’s 100 Most Influential People in the African Diaspora, and Ebony Magazine’s Power 100 list. His work has been featured in the award-winning documentary, Broken Chains.
Work
Jason has always been dedicated to lifting as he climbs. He's leveraged his access and resources to support genius in overlooked communities around the globe.
Recognition
Power 100 (Ebony Magazine)
40 Under 40 in Silicon Valley (The Registry)
100 Most Influential People in the African Diaspora (MIPAD)
100 Most Influential African Americans (The Root)
Innovation & Inclusion Change Agent (DDN)
BE Modern Man (Black Enterprise)
Speaking
As a dynamic and engaging speaker, Jason has shared his expertise with international audiences ranging from student startup founders to Fortune 50 business leaders to government officials in the US and abroad. With over 20 years of experience in the tech industry, he draws on both his proprietary research and real-life experiences to provide concrete strategies and relevant anecdotes to his audiences.Jason offers customized and interactive programs that can range from a 1-hour keynote speech to 4-day educational seminars and are tailored for corporate, university, and nonprofit audiences.
Contact
Get in touch.