Jon is a seasoned executive with over three decades of experience driving growth and innovation across the startup and technology landscape. He brings a rare combination of global corporate venture capital experience, deep operational expertise, and a proven track record of building and scaling high-performing organizations. Jon now applies this experience to lead Tandem/Co’s vision of transforming how innovation communities evolve to optimize startup success.

Hilary is an experienced programs strategist, partnership builder, and community engagement leader. With over a decade of professional experience across the innovation, creative, and tech sectors, she brings a rare blend of operational excellence, creativity, and relationship-driven leadership to every role she takes on. She’s known for transforming ideas into dynamic experiences—whether coordinating corporate activations, managing multi-venue events, or building content strategies that support entrepreneurs and startups.

Connor Pogue graduated with an MS in Business from Texas A&M University in 2018, while he also became a startup founder as a college student. Since then, he has been involved in multiple organizations and often loves taking on the role as being a catalyst for change. Connor enjoys working with driven individuals who are passionate about ideas, work, and life. In his free time, Connor loves fishing, scuba diving, and all things outdoors. 

Robert Pieroni is a startup founder, investor, and ecosystem builder with over 13 years of experience in economic development, startups, and venture capital. As Director of International Business Development at gener8tor, he leads the firm’s expansion into key international markets, including Italy, Germany, and France, and drives the launch of startup accelerators and venture funds across Europe and the U.S.A founder whose company was acquired in 2023, Robert brings firsthand insight into the entrepreneurial journey. He also serves as an advisor to Ecliptic Capital, an Austin-based venture fund, and as Commercial Advisor to TandomCo, the first agentic AI platform purpose-built for startups and innovation ecosystems—transforming how entrepreneurs access support, resources, and connections from idea to exit. With a background in public policy and deep expertise in ecosystem development, Robert is uniquely positioned to build sustainable, high-impact startup communities around the world.

Mat is a seasoned entrepreneur and founding partner of multiple initiatives spanning mental health, leadership development, and the sports industry. With over 25 years of experience launching businesses and cultivating communities, he brings deep operational insight and strategic expertise. He collaborates with economic development organizations to build entrepreneurial ecosystems that spark innovation, strengthen leadership, and ensure sustainable growth.