HEAR OUR STORIES

Real stories from the heart of Exponential Impact

EXPONENTIAL IMPACT

Our Impact, In Their Words

At Exponential Impact, we believe that the true strength of our organization lies in the community we've built. Through collaboration, mentorship, and unwavering support, we empower startups and organizations to grow, innovate, and succeed. But behind every startup’s success is a story—stories of the people who have poured their passion, expertise, and dedication into making Exponential Impact a driving force in the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

In this section, we invite you to hear from the individuals who are integral to our mission: our staff, who lead with purpose; our board members, who provide invaluable guidance; and our mentors, who share their wisdom and experience with the next generation of innovators. These are their stories—the voices that shape our impact and inspire the future.

Jay Jessie

Founder & CEO, Intelligent Software Solutions

Jay started his career as a software engineer and soon became a leader of software teams. He was always fascinated with what makes a business tick though and gravitated towards that passion.

He was a founder of Intelligent Software Solutions in 1998. As CEO, Jay helped grow ISS into a thriving mid-sized Federal technology provider.

In 2016, with help from a highly successful private equity group, he brought ISS together with several other small but special companies, to form Polaris Alpha where he was the President. Polaris Alpha flourished and was quickly acquired by the Parsons company where it prospers today.

Leif Ullman

President, Ullman Technologies

Leif is an experienced tech startup founder with a successful exit, a seasoned executive, an expert software architect, and a serial entrepreneur. In his role as President of Ullman Technologies, Leif helps guide and implement technology and business strategy for a variety of clients.

Leif is also a co-founder of SoCo Angels, a network of angel investors located in Colorado Springs, Pueblo, and Fremont County areas, and serves on the boards of Exponential Impact and Startup Colorado.

Leif has been involved with Exponential Impact since it was founded, serving as a mentor, speaker, Entrepreneur in Residence, and finally as a board member since 2022. More recently, Leif has brought his knowledge and expertise from his 200-hour Yoga Teacher Training to the program, providing a 30-minute mindfulness session as a way to recenter and ground the founders during their busy days of business-focused programming.

Vance Brown, Co-Founder of Exponential Impact

“The Accelerator not only offers next-level programming with exposure to elite business leaders, XI takes a holistic approach to all its programs to ensure founders have camaraderie and community on their entrepreneurial journeY.”

MeNTOR SPOTLIGHT

Mago Lauritzen
Founder & Director, Springs Dance

Angela Mader Hartshorn
Chief Marketing Officer, innate.ly

“Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.”

— Quote Source

Make it stand out.

XI is a fantastic hub of entrepreneurial activity. It’s great to have a place, both physical and virtual, where entrepreneurs and people interested in business can meet and learn from each other.

Laurie Payton
The holistic focus on the 6 pillar model, which incorporates Health and Wellness, is a key factor in ensuring entrepreneurs have the tools to stay mentally, physically and emotionally balanced as they embark on the grueling task of starting and scaling a new venture.

Leif Ullman
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

Lindsey Beumer
“It all begins with an idea. Maybe you want to launch a business.”

Keith Finley

Jacob Montoya, Founder & CEO - FitSW

“EXPONENTIAL IMPACT’S PROGRAMS INSTANTLY PLUGGED US INTO A STARTUP ECOSYSTEM WITH AN IMPRESSIVE GROUP OF MENTORS, OTHER STARTUPS, AND INVESTORS. IT’S RESULTED IN NEW IDEAS, KEEN PERSPECTIVES, A LARGER NETWORK, AND BUSINESS GROWTH.”

MEET THE XI STAFF

Max CUPP

Max brings over a decade of experience in community development, philanthropy, and real estate to his role as Executive Director at Exponential Impact. Before joining Exponential Impact, Max served as the Director of Philanthropic Services at the Pikes Peak Community Foundation, where he managed over 200 donor-advised funds, leading the foundation to its most successful year with $94 million in assets under management. Max also played a key role in supporting early childhood education initiatives and improving internal systems.
Max holds a Master’s degree in City and Regional Planning from the University of Michigan and a Real Estate Development Certificate. Throughout his career, Max has combined his passion for urban planning and philanthropy to drive community growth and economic development.

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Rachael Maxwell

Rachael brings a wealth of expertise in operations, finance, and community engagement to her role as Director of Operations and Finance at Exponential Impact. Since 2019, she has streamlined organizational operations, managed grant administration, and expanded the organization’s digital presence. Rachael’s previous roles include serving as a Program Associate at Innovations in Aging Collaborative, where she enhanced community visibility and supported key initiatives. She also contributed to the Colorado Springs Chamber of Commerce & EDC and worked as a Finance Intern for Senator Michael Bennet’s campaign.
Rachael holds an MPA with a Certificate in Grant Writing from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and a BA in History-Political Science from Colorado College. Her career reflects a commitment to operational excellence and community advancement.

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Coral Laski

Coral brings extensive experience in program management, consulting, and education to her role as Director of Programs at Exponential Impact. Since July 2024, she has led program initiatives and enhanced organizational impact. Previously, Coral served as Program Manager at Exponential Impact, where she refined program strategies and fostered growth. She also runs Your Best Self Consulting, offering workshops and coaching to enhance emotional intelligence and communication skills.
Coral has held teaching roles at the University of Colorado Colorado Springs and Pueblo Community College, and has contributed to career services and pre-collegiate development. She holds an MA in Communication with Distinction and dual BA degrees in Psychology and Communication Studies from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Her career reflects a dedication to professional development and impactful program management.

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Katherine Bolin

Katherine Bolin is a creative graphic designer at Exponential Impact, where she has been a Design Coordinator since July 2022. She brings expertise in Adobe Illustrator, InDesign, Photoshop, and PowerPoint to her role, enhancing visual communication and design projects.
Katherine is also pursuing a Bachelor of Fine Arts in Graphic Design from Liberty University, where she has honed her design skills. Her vibrant approach to design is matched by her passion for fashion and fitness, reflecting a dynamic blend of creativity and energy in both her professional and personal pursuits.

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Ian Kersey

Ian Kersey is a data-driven business development professional currently interning at Colorado Startups and Exponential Impact. Ian drives impactful business solutions by harnessing his expertise in data analysis and business development. At Exponential Impact, he contributes to program effectiveness and strategic planning. At Colorado Startups, Ian supports entrepreneurial growth through innovative business strategies and market insights.
Ian also founded Original Paradigms, where he grew a significant online following and collaborated with major brands on impactful marketing campaigns. Ian holds a Bachelor of Innovation in Business Administration and Management with an emphasis on Information Systems from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs.

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Ben murphy

Ben is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Business, Economics, and Society at Colorado College, where he maintains a 3.98 GPA and is actively involved in the Presidents Council and Consulting Club. With hands-on experience gained through roles at Exponential Impact, where he contributed to the development of a SEED Accelerator Program and managed significant financial analyses, Ben has demonstrated a strong ability to enhance program effectiveness and drive business growth. His work with the Colorado Universities Innovation Council involved addressing digital divides in rural areas, and his stint with Beats by Dre provided valuable insights into branding and consumer trends.
Ben’s academic achievements and diverse professional experiences reflect his commitment to innovative problem-solving and strategic thinking, making him a valuable asset in public-sector consulting and startup development.

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MEET THE XI BOARD OF DIRECTORS

Vance Brown

Vance Brown brings over 30 years of experience as an entrepreneur, CEO, and lawyer. Currently, he serves as Executive Elder and Mediator at Thrivers Leadership Institute and is a co-founder and director of Exponential Impact, a high-tech accelerator. He previously led Cherwell Software and GoldMine Software to significant growth, including a KKR-backed exit for Cherwell and taking GoldMine to unicorn status.
Vance co-founded The Classical Academy and The Colorado Springs School of Technology, reflecting his passion for education. He holds accolades like EY Entrepreneur Of The Year™ and Business Citizen of the Year in Colorado Springs.
Vance graduated summa cum laude from Wake Forest and earned his law degree with honors from UNC. He’s a Civic Leader for the US Air and Space Force and an inventor on multiple patents.

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Betsy Brown

Betsy Brown serves as the Chief Culture Officer at Exponential Impact and Principal Consultant at Thrivers Leadership Institute. At Thrivers, she provides holistic mentoring for business executives, focusing on authentic leadership, meaningful work, and organizational values. At Exponential Impact, she helps tech startups grow through funding, mentorship, and resources.
Previously, Betsy was Director of Character and Culture at The Classical Academy, Colorado's largest K-12 charter school. She also ran a private counseling practice for over 10 years.
Betsy holds a Master's in Mental Health Counseling from UNC Chapel Hill and a Bachelor's in English from Wake Forest University.

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Chris Jenkins

Chris Jenkins serves as the CEO of Norwood Development Group, Southern Colorado's premier real estate development firm. With a focus on creating vibrant, sustainable spaces, Norwood is dedicated to enhancing the Pikes Peak region through projects that foster an authentic and future-oriented downtown. Chris has led the company in building a diverse portfolio that transforms the urban landscape while ensuring that the "Promise of Colorado" is accessible to all its residents.
In addition to his role at Norwood, Chris holds a certification in Real Estate Development from Cornell University and has furthered his education at the University of Denver. His leadership and vision have solidified Norwood’s reputation as a key player in the real estate industry, driving impactful, community-focused development throughout the region.

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Jay Jesse

Jay Jesse is an accomplished entrepreneur, investor, and advisor with extensive experience in the tech and defense sectors. As founder and former CEO of Intelligent Software Solutions (ISS), Jay grew the company from 4 people to over 800, generating over a billion dollars in revenue. He later transformed ISS into Polaris Alpha, a $350M enterprise, which was acquired by Parsons Corporation.
Following the acquisition, Jay served as Executive Vice President at Parsons, focusing on M&A, operations, and integration. Now, as Managing Partner at High Stakes Partners, he advises and invests in small tech companies. Jay holds both a BS in Computer Science and an MS in Computer Information Systems from the University of Denver, and serves on several boards, including Axellio Inc. and Exponential Impact.

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Sarah Jane (SJ) Maxted

Sarah Jane Maxted is an accomplished leader in the energy transition and climate tech space. She currently helps lead GreenSpace Tech by Deloitte, advancing initiatives within the climate tech ecosystem. Previously, as a Principal at ADL Ventures, Sarah focused on energy venture development. She has also served in leadership roles at MIT, including helping to run the Task Force on the Work of the Future and scaling the MIT Regional Entrepreneurship Acceleration Program across more than 40 global regions.
Her extensive public sector experience includes serving as Special Assistant to U.S. Energy Secretary Dr. Steven Chu during President Obama’s administration. Sarah also worked with organizations like Greentown Labs and LA Cleantech Incubator as a Senior Advisor.
She is a Colorado Governor’s Fellow and sits on several advisory boards, including Chain Reaction Innovations and Exponential Impact. Sarah holds a degree from Duke University, with additional studies at Harvard. Originally from Durango, Colorado, she is dedicated to fostering innovation and sustainability across industries.

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Mayor Yemi Mobolade

Blessing 'Yemi' Mobolade is a dynamic leader dedicated to the growth and prosperity of Colorado Springs. As the current Mayor, he drives economic development, supports entrepreneurship, and fosters community well-being. Previously, Yemi served as the City’s Small Business Development Administrator, where he was instrumental in supporting local businesses and startups.
With a rich background in management and leadership, Yemi co-founded and co-owns two businesses, launched a nonprofit, and established a church. His experience spans over fifteen years in various management roles, focusing on leadership development and community impact.
A respected city advocate, Yemi contributes to local boards and commissions, championing initiatives that advance both the private and public sectors. His accolades include the Quality of Life Award and the Small Business Champion of the Year. Yemi holds advanced degrees in Management and Leadership, and he is committed to enhancing the vitality and innovation of his community. Originally from Colorado Springs, Yemi and his family are dedicated to making a positive difference in their city.

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Maureen S. Lawrence

Maureen Smith Lawrence is a seasoned legal and organizational expert currently serving as Sr. Vice President, General Counsel, and Regional Partnerships Program Officer at El Pomar Foundation. With over 15 years of experience, Maureen oversees the foundation’s legal affairs and regional partnerships, managing approximately $650 million in assets and more than $25 million in annual charitable giving.
Previously, Maureen was a Shareholder at Hangley Aronchick Segal Pudlin & Schiller and a Litigation Associate at WilmerHale. Her career also includes roles as a Judicial Law Clerk at the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Tenth Circuit and a Program Associate at El Pomar Foundation.
She earned her JD from The Catholic University of America, Columbus School of Law, and a BA in History & Political Science from Marquette University. Originally from Colorado Springs, Maureen is dedicated to advancing philanthropic and community-focused initiatives.

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Leif Ullman

Leif Ullman is an accomplished executive and entrepreneur with extensive experience in technology, software, and defense industries. As the President of Ullman Technologies, LLC, he provides technology and business strategy consulting services. His background includes leadership roles as CEO and Co-Founder of KidReports, VP Engineering at Procare Software, and a range of positions at Intelligent Software Solutions and Northrop Grumman.
Leif co-founded SoCo Angels and invests with Denver Angels, supporting Colorado's growing companies. He also served as Entrepreneur in Residence at Exponential Impact and has consulted for Spur Philanthropy. He holds an Executive MBA from the University of Denver and a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Colorado Colorado Springs. Based in Colorado Springs, Leif is dedicated to advancing technology and entrepreneurship in the region.

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