A First for Accelerators

Looking for Undiscovered Talent, Ready for Growth

We think San Diego is the best place for startups to launch and grow. And, we know that entrepreneurs are spread across all communities in our city. There’s tons of untapped local talent waiting to accelerate their startups’ success. Our goal is to boost startup growth, especially for low to moderate income and diverse founders from broad backgrounds, ready and eager to take their companies to the next level.

Leadership

Introducing Our Dynamo Team

Reginald Jones

President and CEO of the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation

A visionary leader and strong voice for innovative, grassroots change, Reginald works extensively with culturally diverse residents and partner organizations to implement neighborhood revitalization programs in San Diego.

Alex Waters

Director of Economic Development for the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation

With great passion and aptitude, Alex runs the accelerator program and Business Resource Center. He specializes in connecting startup founders with the resources needed to ensure their business ideas, confidence and investments lead to results.

Danea Ramos

Program Manager for the Jacobs Center or Neighborhood Innovation

Danea is experienced in helping startups and small businesses. She has a passion for working with diverse businesses with experience around the world and providing resources to entrepreneurs.

Selena Ellis-Vizcarra

Compliance & Project Manager for the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation

Selena serves as the Compliance & Project Manager for the Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation. She has over 30 years of public, private and startup experience in the areas of corporate development, fundraising project, program and grant management. She’s a native San Diegan dedicated to improving economic opportunities for underrepresented entrepreneurs especially in Promise Zone, Southeast San Diego and the South Bay.

Partnering for Startup Success

Meet Our Founding Partners and Major Funders

CAJC is a strategic partnership between the City of San Diego, Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation and CONNECT. This program is funded in whole or in part with Community Development Block Grant program funds provided by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development to the City of San Diego. Private funding is also provided by partners MUFG Union Bank N.A. and bkm OfficeWorks.