Melani Gordon

Executive Coach & Partner

2023 - Current

Evolution is a global coaching, consulting, and investment firm that partners with high-growth companies and investors to drive long-term, holistic success through leadership and culture. We work exclusively with companies that strive to be iconic, world-enriching, evolutionary businesses, such as Glassdoor, Slack, Microsoft, Dropbox, Radiology Partners, Twitter (X), Ford Foundation, and more.

Founder & Business Coach

2020

Through MelaniGordon.com, I co-host the Fierce & Free podcast and work closely with entrepreneurs seeking to thrive not only in business, but also emotionally, psychologically, and physically. In an era where working from home became commonplace, I help startup founders navigate their journey. While I focus on startups, I come alongside anyone looking to grow their career or transition into a more fulfilling one.

Venture Partner / Angel Investor

2021

Limited Partner

2022

Investment Principal, Techstars Anywhere

2021 - 2022

From sourcing companies, recruiting team members and helping to accelerate growth of companies in which we invest, I steer various development initiatives and craft the big-picture vision with the Managing Director. In addition to guiding current startups, I lead the program’s mentor network. To join our next cohort, apply at techstars.com/accelerators/anywhere #TSAnywhere

CEO / Co-Founder

2012 - 2021

Since co-founding the SaaS startup in 2012, Evergreen (formerly TapHunter for Business) has been the leader in management and marketing software for bars, restaurants, and other local businesses. Our tools have helped 5,000+ businesses monitor and optimize their online presence, automate menu updates, spread the word on social media, and more. Customers have included Lagunitas Brewing Company, Gordon Biersch, Whole Foods, Kroger, and Stone Brewing.

Business Coach

2020 - 2021

In my role as a coach, I helped 20+ businesses determine their best path forward – and grow. Founders First Capital Partners provides revenue-based funding and business acceleration support to service-based small businesses located outside major capital markets. The organization focuses on supporting businesses led by women, ethnic minorities, and military veterans, including companies located in low-to-moderate income areas.

Co-Founder

2014 - 2019

I helped begin San Diego Startup Week (SDSW), the region’s premier catalyst for innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurialism. Featuring a week of scheduled events, panels, and revelry in the heart of downtown San Diego, Startup Week showcases leading innovators in Software as a Service (SaaS), consumer Internet, mobile tech, hardware, and defense tech. Participants include San Diego’s brightest entrepreneurs, top-tier regional and national investors, strategic advisors, and high-profile community and political supporters, all of whom contribute to San Diego’s thriving startup ecosystem.

CEO / Co-Founder

2004 - 2012

As a founder of this multifaceted marketing agency, I led a team that drove brand awareness, converted prospects to clients, measured/monitored responses, and created profitable results. Our services included social media, creative, web development, mobile apps, SEO, email marketing, and online media. Key clients included True Religion Brand Jeans, Quidel Corporation, and Swinerton.

VP Sales & Marketing

2008 - 2009

Marketing Manager

2005 - 2006