Missouri Technology Corporation (MTC) would like to express its deepest gratitude to Dr. Dedric Carter for his exceptional leadership and dedication as Chairman of the board. Dr. Carter’s visionary guidance has played a pivotal role in advancing innovation and entrepreneurship in Missouri, and his contributions will be remembered for years to come. 
As Chairman, Dr. Carter led the Missouri Innovation and Entrepreneurship Steering Committee, overseeing a strategic initiative that resulted in the publication of the groundbreaking report, “Catalyzing Innovation: Strategies for Missouri to Drive Innovation and Entrepreneurship.” This comprehensive assessment, conducted by TEConomy Partners, provided valuable insights into the state’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and outlined bold strategies and recommendations to position Missouri as a leader in innovation.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to have served as the Board Chair for Missouri Technology Corporation. It has been an incredible journey, and I am proud of the progress we have made together. I would like to express my sincere appreciation to the board members, employees, and stakeholders for their unwavering support throughout my tenure,” said Dr. Dedric A. Carter. “We have a solid plan for the future through Catalyzing Innovation and the supporting implementation plan. It has been an honor to work with talented individuals who are dedicated to driving innovation and entrepreneurship in Missouri and unleashing the significant potential present throughout the state.”
Under Dr. Carter’s visionary leadership (from January 2021 through October 2023), MTC achieved remarkable milestones, including the awarding of over $36.5 million in funding to support early-stage technology-based companies and expand the state’s entrepreneurial capacity. These funds, which required matching contributions from private or federal sources, have played a crucial role in fueling innovation and driving economic growth in Missouri.
Furthermore, Dr. Carter’s exceptional stewardship led to the U.S. Department of Treasury’s approval MTC to deploy Missouri’s $95 million State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI) Capital Program allocation. This milestone allowed MTC to bolster its state-sponsored venture capital program, the IDEA Fund Co-Investment Program, further empowering entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving startup ecosystem.
In addition to these achievements, MTC’s annual state appropriation has consistently increased under Dr. Carter’s guidance, reflecting the trust and confidence placed in the organization’s ability to drive innovation and economic development in Missouri.
As Dr. Carter steps down from his position as Chair, MTC is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Dan Cobb as the new Chair. With his extensive experience and passion for entrepreneurship, Mr. Cobb is poised to build upon the foundation laid by Dr. Carter and previous MTC Chairs to lead MTC into a new era of growth and success.
“I am honored to assume the role of Chair and continue the important work of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in Missouri,” said Dan Cobb, Incoming Chair of MTC. “I look forward to collaborating with the board, staff, and stakeholders to further advance our state’s innovation ecosystem and drive economic prosperity.”
MTC would like to extend its heartfelt appreciation to Dr. Carter for his outstanding service and welcome Mr. Cobb as the new Chair. Together, they represent the unwavering commitment of MTC to drive innovation, nurture entrepreneurship, and position Missouri as a leader in the ever-evolving landscape of technology and innovation.
