Building Innovators and LEADERS to Transform Industries
Welcome! I’m Eric Mathews, and I specialize in helping innovators, business leaders, and entrepreneurs grow themselves and new solutions to change industries. Since 2006, I’ve been at the forefront of building early-stage entrepreneurial ecosystems, starting with just my savings and credit cards in Memphis, Tennessee.
As the co-founder and CEO of Start Co., an internationally recognized venture development organization, I support entrepreneurs from raw ideas to successful startups. Over the years, I’ve materially supported over 250 businesses and social impact organizations, helping them raise over $100MM and create over 1,000 jobs.
My Journey
My journey in entrepreneurship and innovation began with the creation of Start Co., where we’ve built systems to support diverse founders from all over the world. Some of our milestones include:
- 2007: Built the first co-working space in Tennessee.
- 2011: Launched the first cohort accelerator in the Southeast.
- 2013: Co-created one of the first accelerators to invest in women-led teams, recognized by Forbes as a top 10 program for women-led founders.
- 2014: Established the first angel fund and network in Memphis since 2002.
- 2015-2019: Partnered to build the first medical device accelerator, a corporate accelerator in home services technology, a logistics technology accelerator, and an agricultural technology accelerator.
- 2023: Became the first entrepreneur-in-residence at Rhodes College.
Before these ventures, I was the Associate Director of Corporate Research & Development at the FedEx Institute of Technology, where I grew research programs and business development activities with Fortune 500 companies.
With a background in Chemistry (B.S.) from Rhodes College and Cognitive Psychology (M.S.) from the University of Memphis, I’ve been able to blend scientific rigor with entrepreneurial spirit. My insights have been featured in Financial Times, Inc., The Next Web, Entrepreneur, Huffington Post, Success, Forbes, and more.
Beyond business, I have a passion for the arts and community development. I serve on the board of BalletMemphis and the Center City Revenue Finance Corporation. I also have invested in building product, medical device manufacturing, consumer products, and real estate businesses.
Core Values
Belonging: Creating inclusive environments where everyone feels valued and supported.
Integrity: Upholding the highest standards of honesty and ethical behavior.
What Sets Me Apart
My unique experiences at the forefront of change, technology, and innovation across various industries and hundreds of businesses of all sizes set me apart. For over 20 years, I’ve been helping people grow themselves first, so they can grow their businesses, grow their impact, and grow others. From social impact to high-tech startups, artists to Fortune 500 companies, I’ve guided thousands to think bigger, grow further, and challenge the status quo.
Being innovative is not enough. We must become what we want to attract to grow, lead change, and reach our fullest potential in business and life. I love journeying into the unknown and invite you to do the same.
Ready to Start Your Transformation?
Connect with me today to learn more about how we can work together to achieve your goals.