About Our Team

We are team with deep backgrounds in growing and scaling startups, leading corporate innovation initiatives and developing strong startup ecosystems.

Mark Kotzer, Founder and Chief Growth Officer

Mark brings 25+ years of experience driving innovation and growth for startups and Fortune 500 companies. His expertise in go-to-market strategy, customer acquisition and ecosystem development forms the foundation of Growth Jumpstart's approach to accelerating business success.

Startup Leadership & Ecosystem Development Mark began his career leading sales, marketing and business development for early-stage startups in online travel, VAT recovery automation and wireless sectors. His involvement in Seattle's venture community led him to co-found and manage an early-stage investment group that enabled 40+ startups to secure equity funding. These hands-on experiences informed Growth Jumpstart's strategic advisory services for founders, helping founders overcome common growth challenges and identify opportunities others miss.

Corporate Innovation Leadership Mark pioneered approaches for adapting startup agility and venture best practices to mid-market and Fortune 500 companies. As an Entrepreneur-in-Residence at Expedia, he launched a new line of business that acquired 81,000 customers in just 12 months. At Safeco Insurance, he created and led the company's innovation team while spearheading startup engagement initiatives. As Innovation Evangelist for Liberty Mutual, he fostered a culture of innovation and enhanced company capabilities to deliver quicker, cheaper and high impact solutions.

Accelerator Expertise Most recently, Mark has worked with 20+ startup accelerators and their portfolio companies as an advisor, business expert, mentor and strategic connector. His experience spans global programs like Techstars and NATO's Defense Innovation Accelerator as well region and industry-specific accelerators. An area of growing focus is helping international startups from Asia, Canada and Europe navigate U.S. market entry challenges. These experiences directly shape Growth Jumpstart’s innovation matchmaking services that create value for both startups and corporate partners.

Education Mark earned degrees from the College of William & Mary and the University of Virginia Darden School of Business.

Outside of Work Mark serves on the Board of Trustees for the Museum of History and Industry (MOHAI). He is an avid hiker and devoted (somewhat obsessive) Garmin user. Travel is one of his big passions—he loves exploring new places and trying foods from around the world with his wife.