Thomas Webster

Mr. Webster is an experienced startup leader, business advisor, and seasoned entrepreneur in the creation and development of for-profit and non-profit ventures in both the private and public sectors. He has 35+ years of experience assisting organizations as an executive leader and senior management advisor in the planning and development of business strategy; the launching and expansion of new divisions; and the financing and capitalization of businesses and programs.

Thom is a Co-Founder of Black Squirrel serving as its Chief Program Officer overseeing its Real Estate Investment Accelerator, Philly RiSE, including its day-to-day operations, management, and program implementation. His experience in building and launching initiatives like this includes being a Startup and Investment Advisor to Philadelphia’s University Science Center, (UCSC) the oldest scientific incubator in America, for its Life Sciences Accelerators; as a Lead Program Advisor to iRISE - Philadelphia, the partnership between UNCF + UCSC to accelerate the participation of African-Americans and other underrepresented Founders in the region’s Bio and Life Sciences ecosystem; and was formerly a Senior Advisor to Black & Brown Founders and Backstage Capital.

Thom is a past appointee of former PA Governor Bob Casey, Sr. to manage economic development initiatives and EEO programs for small and minority businesses statewide; is a Marine Corps Veteran, and has served for many years on multiple boards of various organizations including:

• Mayor Cherelle Parker Transition and Inauguration Committee

• The African American Chamber of Commerce of New Jersey

• The Fellowship of Black Male Educators

• The Center for Black Educator Development

• Inclusive Capital Collective

• Future of Work Alliance PHL