JumpStart is thrilled to announce the appointment of José Vasquéz as Chair of its Board of Directors. José succeeds Jeanne Coughlin, CEO of the Coughlin Group, who led JumpStart through three pivotal years of growth and transformation, including navigating a CEO transition and shaping a new three-year strategic plan.

José officially assumed the role on November 14, bringing extensive expertise in entrepreneurship, technology and community development. As founder and CEO of Quéz Media, José has been a pioneer in leveraging cutting-edge technology and innovative strategies to drive business growth. In his role as Chief Marketing Officer at Growth Opportunity Partners, Inc., José has cemented his reputation as a leader dedicated to creating equitable economic opportunities through small business lending, advisory services, and clean energy solutions, focusing on underserved communities.

A member of JumpStart’s Board of Directors for over seven years, most recently serving as Vice Chair, José has played a vital role in shaping the organization’s strategy and championing inclusive entrepreneurship across Ohio.

“José’s visionary leadership comes at a critical time for JumpStart as we continue to evolve and reimagine how we serve our clients and community,” said Julie Jacono, CEO of JumpStart and JumpStart Ventures. “His deep understanding of entrepreneurship and inclusion will help guide new opportunities and partnerships. I am excited to work alongside him and the rest of the board to shape JumpStart’s next chapter.”

JumpStart also welcomes six new members to its Board of Directors:

• Ann Graffice, Executive VP of Global Marketing & Public Affairs, Hall of Fame Resort and Entertainment Company
• Dean Uher, Senior Vice President, Regional Underwriting Executive, Credit Products Group, PNC
• Jim Ellis, Managing Director Pre-Market Innovations, Cleveland Clinic
• Karan Jolly, Managing Director at Ernst & Young Capital Advisors LLC
• Marco Grgurevic, Managing VP of Minority Business Growth, Greater Cleveland Partnership
• Paul Wellener, Retired Vice Chair, Deloitte

JumpStart’s board is critical in advancing the organization’s mission. As trusted advisors and ambassadors, JumpStart’s board plays a pivotal role in providing strategic guidance, building partnerships, and advocating for the organization’s mission.

“The strength of our board lies in its diversity of thought, experience and passion,” said José Vasquéz, JumpStart Board Chair. “I am excited to lead in this new capacity as we connect entrepreneurs to the resources and connections they need to succeed, creating pathways for innovation and wealth generation for communities across Ohio.”

For more information or to view JumpStart’s full board of directors, please visit jumpstartinc.org/about/team.

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About JumpStart
JumpStart is a nationally recognized venture development organization that provides high-impact services and resources to help tech startups and small businesses prepare for capital and growth. Our mission is to drive economic vitality by connecting entrepreneurs to the opportunities they need to succeed.