Donna Harris is the co-founder and CEO of 1776, a global incubator headquartered in Washington, D.C., and operates a venture capital fund that makes investments worldwide.

Prior to launching 1776, Ms. Harris served as the Managing Director at the Startup America Partnership where, working in partnership with the White House, the Kauffman Foundation and the Case Foundation, she led the formation of entrepreneurial communities across the United States. Ms. Harris serves as a Trustee of the Federal City Council, as a board member of the Global Entrepreneurship Network, and as an Entrepreneur-In-Residence at Georgetown University. She is also an active angel investor as a co-founder of K Street Capital. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Central Michigan University and MBA with distinction from The University of Michigan Ross School of Business.

Tim Spangler, Senior Vice President of Retail, began at REI in 1993, holding various leadership roles during his time with the co-op.

He oversees retail strategy and operations in 140 stores in 33 states, which includes leading REI’s flagship strategy and elevating the retail experience for their members. Mr. Spangler also leads the outdoor education and adventure travel business, REI Outdoor School, and REI Adventures.

Mr. Spangler previously served on the board of NatureBridge, an organization dedicated to engaging youth through national parks in the West, for seven years.

Jim Abdo is the President and CEO of Abdo Development, which has completed over 30 development projects concentrated around Washington's urban core since its founding 1996.

Abdo Development has received critical acclaim from within the community and the press for its responsible approach to development and is considered a leader in the renewal of Washington’s historic districts.  Mr. Abdo was honored with the 2007 CEO of the Year Award from SmartCEO Magazine as well as the 2007 Investors in America Award from Partners for Livable Communities. He was also named the 2008 Regional winner of the Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year Award. In 2013 Mr. Abdo was named a Washingtonian of the Year by Washingtonian Magazine and also received the Mayor’s Award for outstanding support to DC’s Arts. This year he received the 2015 Leadership Award CulturalDC for his contribution to the arts in Washington DC.