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Team

Bridging Innovators and Industries

Braid Theory was founded by deep domain experts in the blue economy space to address the gap between bluetech entrepreneurs and effective commercialization strategies. We are strengthened through skilled professionals covering innovations in the green and blue economies, entrepreneurship, manufacturing, and sales.

Team

Ann Carpenter photo
CEO

Ann is dedicated to fostering the global blue economy entrepreneur ecosystem. As CEO of Braid Theory, she is responsible for steering the ship. She also advises startups in navigating the path to market. Ann is also Managing Partner of Portugal-based incubator, Innofuse Blue, and serves on the boards of Smart Freight Centre and Ocean Exchange.

Anastassia Savini photo
Contracts Administrator

Anastassia, an international business and banking regulation expert, is applying her detail-oriented legal knowledge to oversee all entrepreneur, partner, supplier, and employee contracts. She recently passed the now-famous “baby bar” exam. Anastassia is a champion of the sailing community in So.Cal.

Hannah Ponce
Assistant Community Manager

Hannah is driven by a diverse skill set in research, marketing, and project management. Her work with the So. Cal. bluetech and biotech ecosystems signifies her commitment to developing strong, collaborative communities. Beyond her professional pursuits, Hannah coaches volleyball, enjoys sailing, and is a dedicated mother.

Justin Sternberg
Emerging Technology Expert: Clean Energy, Aquaculture, and Blue Tech

Proven leader in managing people, projects, and ideas for outcome-driven results. Experienced in emerging technologies. Expertise in developing programs for early-stage ocean-based businesses.

Isabelle Bart
Curriculum and Program Development Lead

Isabelle is passionate about empowering individuals to create innovative and impactful enterprises. She brings vast experience designing and implementing accelerator and incubator programs. She enjoys surfing, paddleboarding, biking, and practicing yoga on the beach.

Amy Grat
Strategy, Braid Theory Impact

Amy is an experienced leader with 20+ years of expertise in building and guiding nonprofits. She excels in strategic planning and business development, leveraging her extensive network to create sustainable and prosperous futures. Amy enjoys hiking, travel, and steampunk cosplay.

Middle age smiling woman in a hat
Director of Partnerships

Deb has dedicated over 30 years to collaborating with clients and partners, guiding them through dynamic marketing landscapes to enhance their brands. From multimedia campaigns to interactive events, she offers versatile marketing expertise to maximize budgets and achieve strategic goals. Deb finds solace in the ocean, from scuba diving and kayaking, to simply enjoying a quiet soak.

Lilia Yermakova
Visual Design, Creative Communication, UX

Experienced graphic and web designer with a strong focus on user-centric design. Skilled in web development, multimedia content creation, and accessibility. Committed to enhancing online experiences and fostering community connections.

Ryan Blaney photo
IP Strategy

A Principal and Founder at a local international law consultancy, Ryan employs his legal expertise to advise entrepreneurs on international compliance and intellectual property.

Startup Mentors

Adil Ashiq photo
Maritime Innovation Expert
Anshul Tuteja headshot
Maritime Industry Executive
Chris Richardson
Deeptech R&D, Humanities Researcher, Human-Centered Designer
David Madden Headshot
Risk Management, Venture Advisor
Drew Cesario
Revenue Growth Strategist
Eric Bayani Photo
Port and Maritime Expert: Zero Emission, Energy
Fraser Stobie Headshot
Natural Resources & Aquaculture Advisor
Leanna Levine photo
Entrepreneur, Inventor, Manufacturing Process Expert
Mateo Abascal
Humanitarian Technologist and Social Entrepreneur
Miguel Caballero Pinto Headshot
Serial Entrepreneur, Peer Mentor
Mike Bush
High-performance Marcom Operations Expert
Natalie Zhou
Corporate Innovation, Supply Chain & Logistics
Nickelle Presley
Ocean and Climate Tech Advisor
Middle age man
Financial Advisor
Scott Rohrbaugh photo
Applied Physicist, Corporate Innovation
Shannon Holloway Headshot
Human-Centered UX Design
Susan Paley Headshot
Hardware Prototype to Production