JumpStart Inc. is pleased to announce that Joseph (Joe) Rich, JD, MBA, Managing Partner, at Cleveland Clinic Innovations, has joined its Board of Directors.
Joe is a distinguished leader in innovation strategy, venture development, and technology commercialization. With nearly two decades of experience driving enterprise-wide innovation programs, managing venture portfolios, and advancing regional economic development initiatives, he brings invaluable expertise to JumpStart's mission.
In his role at Cleveland Clinic, Joe focuses on the strategic growth of enterprise-wide innovation programs, including investing in and exiting startup portfolio companies based on Cleveland Clinic intellectual property, administering state and federally funded programs, and leading efforts tied to the Cleveland Innovation District. He also leads Cleveland Clinic's Ohio BioValidation Fund, which focuses on early-stage healthcare technology investments.
Joe has served as a board member and corporate officer for numerous Cleveland Clinic portfolio companies, including Centerline Biomedical, Cleveland Diagnostics, Enspire DBS, NeuroTherpia, Zehna Therapeutics, Abcon Therapeutics, and Method AI. He also chairs the Innovations Corporate Compliance Committee and is a voting member of Cleveland Clinic's Enterprise Conflict of Interest Committee.
"Joe has a unique combination of deep industry knowledge, venture investment experience, and a passion for innovation that strengthens our work with entrepreneurs. His insight into both healthcare and technology commercialization will be an incredible asset as we continue to drive economic impact across the region." – Lorne Novick, JumpStart Interim CEO
JumpStart Board Chair, Cindy Torres Essell added: "We are thrilled to welcome Joe Rich to our Board of Directors. His leadership in innovation and proven track record of building partnerships align perfectly with JumpStart's mission. Joe's appointment enhances our ability to accelerate entrepreneurship, attract investment, and strengthen Northeast Ohio's role as a hub for innovation."
Joe's prior experience includes roles with the University of Akron Research Foundation, NASA Glenn Research Center, the Cleveland Clinic Research, Cleveland Clinic's Law Department, and The University of Akron.
Joe holds a BS in Biology and a second major in Philosophy from John Carroll University, an MBA in Finance from The University of Akron, and a JD from The University of Akron School of Law.
Joe joins a distinguished group of JumpStart board members whose leadership and expertise play a vital role in advancing the organization's mission. Together, the Board of Directors serves as a body of advisors and ambassadors, helping to shape strategy, strengthen partnerships, and champion JumpStart's impact on economic and community development across the region.
