MEET THE TEAM

Jason Talley - FOUNDER and CEO

Jason Talley is an accomplished project leader with over 18 years of experience in innovative leadership, training, and coaching. His expertise encompasses organizational development, program management, talent management, human resources, change management, and staff development. He excels at formulating action plans, managing multiple projects, and directing activities across various disciplines.

With a rich career spanning several years, Jason has demonstrated an exceptional acumen for consultative roles in technology and innovation management. He has advised the implementation of Machine Learning (ML) and AI-enabled capabilities, cultivates a range of multi-sector partnerships, and provides crucial mentorship to program staff. Prior to this, he made significant contributions as the Technology Transition and Outreach Manager for Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. In this capacity, he elevated program awareness, advanced research and development opportunities, and advised on key policy initiatives. His proactive leadership in outreach initiatives and a specific technology transition program led to the allocation of over $50 million in additional funding to high-performing businesses. Mr. Talley's experience exemplifies his dedication to fostering innovation and promoting technological advancement in his consultative roles.

Holding a Master of Business Administration (MBA) aad a Master of Human Resources Management from the University of Maryland, Mr. Talley has served as a program manager for various government departments, including the Department of State, Department of Justice, Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, Department of Homeland Security, and Health and Human Services.

Maria Conneran - SBIR/STTR Technologist

Meet Maria Conneran, a seasoned consultant specializing in Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) and Small Business Technology Transfer (STTR) programs. Leveraging her diverse experience, including roles as a Technology Evaluator at OTST Program and Program Analyst for the Rapid Innovation Fund, Maria brings valuable insights into SBIR and STTR initiatives. A graduate with a B.S. in Biomedical Engineering and an M.S. in Applied Physics, Maria's expertise extends across the laser industry and beyond, including animation, science education, and technical writing. She stands out for her skill in technical due diligence, proficiently evaluating the potential of proposed developments and existing market offerings. With Maria, you gain a committed partner dedicated to guiding your business through innovation, technology, and strategic growth.

Lynn Jenkins - senior advisor

Boasting an expansive understanding of cutting-edge technologies and industry trends, Lynn is a seasoned professional with over three decades of experience under her belt. Having held leadership roles such as Principal, VP, and Director in both Fortune 500 corporations and smaller private-sector enterprises, her expertise spans a vast spectrum including sales, marketing, business development, capture management, and proposal development.

Passionate about empowering diverse businesses, Lynn specializes in aiding high-tech service-disabled veteran-owned (SDVOSB), Hub Zone, 8(a), woman-owned, minority, small disadvantaged, and Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) companies. She provides strategic guidance, builds robust infrastructure, identifies and develops opportunity pipelines, and aids in business closure, ensuring that these businesses have the tools and insights necessary to thrive.

Lynn's industry experience is broad and varied, encompassing federal defense and civilian agencies, large prime contractors, financial services, higher education, pharmaceuticals, insurance, technology software and hardware manufacturers, telecommunications, medical, aerospace, information technology, and value-add resellers (VARs). This wide-ranging expertise ensures that she brings a holistic, well-informed perspective to her consultative roles.

Mark Salvador - Human Capital Advisor

Introducing Mark Salvador, a highly experienced Corporate and Technical Recruiter with a comprehensive understanding of various professional sectors, including IT, consulting, accounting, and financial management. Having operated within both corporate and consulting landscapes, Mark demonstrates profound expertise in managing the entire recruitment life cycle, establishing enduring professional relationships, and expanding his robust network. With a specific focus on the DC metro area's IT sector, Mark provides a significant platform for professionals seeking enriching career opportunities within esteemed firms such as HP. A proud alumnus of the University of Delaware with a Bachelor's degree in Psychology, Mark brings a nuanced understanding of the human element to his recruitment approach.