The only thing radder than Melissa McGrath writing up this blog piece on our judges’ panel at Idaho Startup Weekend is the stunning cred of this expert crew:
James Hepworth, Co-Founder, Nebula Shift
James Hepworth is the co-founder of Nebula Shift, a business concept dedicated to the acceleration in the formation, development and success of software startup businesses. Prior to Nebula Shift, Hepworth was the co-founder and Chief Technology Officer of MarkMonitor. Hepworth brings not only a true passion for startups but also broad experience from all aspects of business and technology, including fundraising, sales, technical architecture, strategic planning and tactical execution.
Russell Case, Angel Investor
Russell Case is a business lawyer by education and a business strategist by luck and design. He’s worked as a corporate-securities lawyer and in-house attorney for multi-national companies. But after more than 20 years in business and law, he came to Boise in 2007 with a goal of bringing “virtual general counsel” services to local and regional growth/early revenue companies. Russell has a knack for aligning legal services with business realities in a unique and cost-effective manner. He brings his expertise as not only an attorney but also an angel investor to Startup Weekend.
Dave Romero, Co-Founder, Tsuvo, Inc.
Dave Romero is the co-founder of the rapidly growing online innovations firm Tsuvo Inc. Before founding Tsuvo just over two years ago, Dave served as a member of the MSN Live search engine team. Dave’s colleagues consider him an adrenaline enthusiast in and outside the office. He holds a B.B.A from Gonzaga University. Dave brings his unique perspective and expertise as the founder of a rad, local startup.
Jessica Flynn, President, Red Sky Public Relations
Jessica Flynn is the founder, owner and President of Red Sky Public Relations, Idaho’s largest public relations agency. A former journalist, Jessica now applies her reporting and producing instincts to highly successful public relations campaigns on behalf of clients large and small, local and global. She specializes in promotion of places and is recognized regionally as a specialist in utilizing social media opportunities. Prior to founding Red Sky, Jessica was the first Communications Manager for Idaho’s Tamarack Resort. She brings years of innovative PR experience.
Mike McGrath, President, Action Couriers
Mike McGrath is the founder and president of Action Couriers Inc., a same-day delivery service in Idaho, Oregon, Wyoming and Utah. Mike started Action Couriers in 1996 with his wife, Rhonda, just one vehicle, and a lot of motivation. Now, Action Couriers has grown into a fleet of 55 vehicles and more than 80 employees. Before starting his own business, Mike spent 20 years working in sales and finance for global corporations, including several years as the Chief Financial Officer for Sandoz Corporation (now called Novartis). He brings expertise as a Certified Public Accountant and business owner.
We welcome all of our judges and thank them for taking part in Idaho Startup Weekend. It wouldn’t be possible without them.
See you this weekend!
~ Melissa M.