Curiosity + Collaboration

We believe that knowledge becomes powerful when it is shared.

Our Team

Elevating Entrepreneurs

Our team could really include every one of our mentors, founders, sponsors, partners, investors, and community members — we all support one another towards a common goal of elevating entrepreneurs. Here are just a few of the people who embrace curiosity and help make connections for collaboration.

Erica Madden

Chief Engagement Officer

Hi, I’m Erica … voracious reader, Steelers lover, and entrepreneur enthusiast. I’ve been part of this community from the beginning, and I’m grateful for all the ways people have poured into me. When I’m in a room with the LaunchCLT community, I feel like I’m with my people. We have interesting and stimulating conversations. We exchange ideas and dream big. We say ‘I wonder if we could …’ a lot. We all want to help make the entrepreneurial journey just a little bit easier. In addition to spending time with this crew, I run a strategic consulting company (bloom.), volunteer with Access to Success to serve entrepreneurs in Benin City, Nigeria, and contemplate where my next trip abroad will be (suggestions welcome)! Please connect and let’s grab coffee or a beer together soon. Cheers!

Matt Cuddy

Program Administrator

Hey, I’m Matt! I’m a proud graduate of Appalachian State University. Shortly after graduating, I jumped at the opportunity to join this incredible community, lending support to founders and contributing to various programs. In the following years, I began the journey of building my own website design business from the ground up. I also dipped my toes in the startup world, gaining valuable experience working at a small, fast-growing startup. Now, I’m thrilled to be rejoining this amazing community and excited to continue supporting founders. Outside of work, I’m also a runner and recently completed my very first marathon. Let’s connect!