An Update From The Venture Madness Legacy Council
PHOENIX, Ariz., Sept. 30, 2025 — Venture Madness by Invest Southwest is proud to announce the induction of Sandra Watson, President & CEO of the Arizona Commerce Authority (ACA), as the inaugural member of its newly established Legacy Council.
Watson, who serves on Governor Katie Hobbs’ leadership team as her Senior Economic Policy Advisor, has been at the forefront of the state’s economic development strategy for more than a decade. Since joining the Venture Madness Board in 2014, she has brought invaluable leadership, expertise, and resources to Arizona’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Under her guidance, the Arizona Commerce Authority has been a longstanding Premier Partner of Venture Madness, working side by side to champion innovation, cultivate talent, and accelerate the growth of high-potential startups across the state.
The Legacy Council was established to honor the most influential leaders in Venture Madness history—those whose vision, dedication, and generosity have left a lasting impact on Arizona’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Membership represents one of the highest distinctions bestowed by Venture Madness, celebrating individuals whose contributions have shaped the organization’s success and future direction.
As the first-ever inductee, Watson sets the standard for this prestigious honor, reflecting her unmatched commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, investment, and innovation in Arizona.
“Sandra Watson’s visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to Arizona’s startup community have been essential to Venture Madness’ growth and impact,” said Tom Fulcher, Chair of Venture Madness. “Through her leadership at the Arizona Commerce Authority, she has championed groundbreaking programs and partnerships that provide critical resources, mentorship, and funding for our most promising entrepreneurs. Sandra has been instrumental in positioning Arizona as a nationally recognized hub for technology startups and innovation. We are deeply honored to welcome her as the inaugural member of our Legacy Council.”
Watson expressed her gratitude for the recognition.“I am deeply honored to be named the inaugural member of the Legacy Council and to have had the privilege of serving on the Venture Madness Board for over a decade,” she said. “We’re proud to partner with Venture Madness to deliver an exceptional event each year that brings together startups, investors, and innovators. My heartfelt thanks to Karen Katzorke and the entire Venture Madness Board of Directors for their leadership and continued partnership to advance innovation and entrepreneurship in Arizona.”
In addition to celebrating this new milestone, Venture Madness by Invest Southwest is also proud to announce the appointment of the organization’s newest board members:
- Bob DeLean of AZ Tech Investors
- Sean Lindy of Monsoon Ventures
- Kyle DeLashmutt of Grayhawk Capital.
These newest members of the Venture Madness by Invest Southwest board join the following returning members:
- Tom Fulcher, board chair
- Karen Katzorke, president and CEO
- Ben Brockwell, board member (AZ-VC)
- Louise Hardman, board member (ASU InvestU)
- Mark Moeremans, board member (Spectrum Medical)
- Chardon Stuart, board member (Osborn Maledon)
Together, this leadership team provides strategic guidance, industry expertise, and insight to ensure Venture Madness remains Arizona’s leading platform for innovation, investment, and entrepreneurial growth.
About Venture Madness by Invest Southwest
Established in 1992, Venture Madness by Invest Southwest hosts Arizona’s premier venture capital conference, connecting investors with the state’s most promising tech ventures. Over the years, it has helped startups secure funding, build networks, and gain national recognition. This year, Venture Madness by Invest Southwest will host its flagshipVenture Madness Conferenceas part of Arizona’s first-ever Tech Week, attracting an anticipated 400 investors, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders and further cementing its role as the state’s largest and most influential platform for innovation and investment.
