Mark Swanson
Strategic Advisor - COO (interim)
Venture Builder | Investor | Advisor | Serial Entrepreneur
Mark Swanson combines military precision with entrepreneurial vision, bringing decades of experience in building innovation ecosystems and scaling technology ventures. His unique background spans defense innovation, startup creation, and venture capital.
Innovation Ecosystem Leadership:
SOFWerx.org (2015-present): Recruited by U.S. Special Operations Command to establish this groundbreaking innovation platform connecting Special Operations Forces' real-world challenges with commercial technology solutions. The program has been so successful that every branch of the Armed Forces has replicated its model.
Tampa Bay Wave (2013-2016): As Chairman, helped transform the Tampa Bay technology ecosystem from practically nothing to being named the #1 startup ecosystem in the US in 2021, leading major fundraising efforts and establishing comprehensive support systems.
Technology Entrepreneurship: 30+ years of experience in advanced computing, with proven track record in building technology ventures and creating innovation infrastructure that transforms regional economies.