A New Chapter For Venture Madness
Karen Katzorke Announces Departure After Two Decades of Leadership at Venture Madness
Aaron Favreau of AZ Venture Capital Appointed as the New Executive Director of Venture Madness by Invest Southwest
PHOENIX, Ariz.,Oct. 15, 2025 — After two decades of dedicated service to Arizona’s entrepreneurial community, Karen Katzorke has announced that she will be stepping down as CEO of Venture Madness by Invest Southwest. The Venture Madness Board of Directors is pleased to share that Aaron Favreau will assume the role of Executive Director, leading the organization into its next chapter of growth and innovation.
Karen’s journey with Venture Madness began long before her executive leadership role. She has been deeply involved since the organization’s early days as the Arizona Venture Capital Conference, helping evolve it into what is now Venture Madness—Arizona’s premier venture capital conference and pitch competition. Since becoming Executive Director in 2014, Karen has helped grow the program’s reach, strengthen investor engagement, and elevate Arizona’s reputation as a thriving hub for startups and venture activity.
“After 20 incredible years with this organization and community, I feel it’s the right time to pass the torch,” said Karen Katzorke. “Venture Madness has been a defining part of my career and my heart. I’ve had the privilege of working alongside visionary founders, investors, and board members who share a passion for building Arizona’s innovation ecosystem. As I step back from daily operations to explore new professional opportunities, I do so with immense pride in how far we’ve come—and with full confidence in Aaron’s ability to lead Venture Madness into its next exciting phase.”
Aaron Favreau, who has been actively involved in Arizona’s venture and startup ecosystem, brings a strong background in venture capital, investment strategy, and organizational leadership to his new role. As a Director with Arizona Venture Capital (AVC), Aaron has played an integral role in advancing investment initiatives throughout the state. His work has included identifying and supporting venture capital funds actively investing in Arizona-based startups, helping fuel local innovation and strengthen the regional economy.
“I’m honored to carry forward the legacy that Karen and so many others have built over the past two decades,” said Aaron Favreau. “Venture Madness has long been a launchpad for startups and a symbol of collaboration in Arizona’s innovation ecosystem. I’m thrilled to guide the next evolution of this organization—especially as we prepare for the 2026 Venture Madness Conference, which will serve as the flagship event of Arizona’s inaugural Tech Week on April 9, 2026.”
“Karen’s leadership and passion have been instrumental in shaping Venture Madness into the influential platform it is today,” said Tom Fulcher, Chair of the Venture Madness Board of Directors. “She has devoted two decades to building and strengthening Arizona’s startup ecosystem, and her impact will be felt for years to come. We’re deeply grateful for her service and vision. As we welcome Aaron Favreau into the Executive Director role, we’re confident his expertise and enthusiasm will help propel Venture Madness into a bold and exciting future.”
As Venture Madness enters this new era of leadership, the organization remains steadfast in its mission to connect capital, talent, and innovation—continuing to serve as a catalyst for Arizona’s growing startup community. With Aaron Favreau at the helm and the 2026 Venture Madness Conference set to anchor Arizona’s inaugural Tech Week on April 9, the future holds tremendous opportunity.
The Board of Directors, community partners, and stakeholders extend their gratitude to Karen Katzorke for her outstanding leadership and long-standing commitment to the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Her vision and dedication have helped shape Venture Madness into the influential platform it is today—one that will continue to empower the next generation of innovators and investors across the region.
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. Learn more at www.venturemadness.com
