The nonprofit Economic Development for Central Oregon, or EDCO, named Deanne Buck as its new Venture Catalyst Director.
Buck replaces Brian Vierra, who held the role for seven years, but left last year and joined the startup TrovaTrip. She takes over the role Feb. 28.
As a Venture Catalyst, Buck is part of a statewide network of support for entrepreneurs. At EDCO she will be responsible for executing the programs of the group’s Start initiative, which mentors and advises scalable startups on everything from capital to strategy.
“The position of Venture Catalyst Director requires a very unique set of skills. We consider ourselves fortunate to have found someone with Deanne’s background and passion to both continue the success of the position and take it to the next level,” said Jon Stark, EDCO Interim CEO in a written statement. “Deanne’s experience with mentoring and coaching founders, fundraising and revenue diversification strategy, and execution and project-based consultation will be assets to the organization.”
Buck has been a startup and strategic adviser for 14 years. She spent six years as Executive Director of Colorado-based Camber Outdoors, a nonprofit that works with outdoor brands on workplace diversity, equity and inclusion, according to her LinkedIn profile.
She is an avid trail running, skier and climber.
“The opportunity to continue combining my passions, experiences, and skills in a geographic area near to my heart is what drew me to this position,” she said in a written statement.
One of EDCO's signature events is the Bend Venture Conference, which draws hundreds of investors, entrepreneurs and others to Central Oregon.
EDCO used Specialized Recruiting Group, which is part of Express Employment Professionals, in conducting the search for this position.
