Karen Zuccardi is the Ecosystem Director of Venture Development at TEDCO, where she leads statewide initiatives to strengthen and expand Maryland’s innovation ecosystem. In this role, she works across early-stage technology and life science companies, Entrepreneurial Support Organizations (ESOs), and public and private partners to connect founders with the capital, resources, and strategic networks needed to grow and scale.
With a background in international business, sustainable development, and public service, Karen has designed and led startup programs, supported ecosystem-building efforts across diverse regions, and mentored entrepreneurs at various stages of growth. Her work focuses on bridging gaps across sectors and communities to ensure more inclusive and effective pathways to innovation and economic opportunity.
Karen is bilingual in Spanish and is deeply committed to expanding access and engagement across Maryland’s diverse entrepreneurial landscape.
A proud member of the Maryland Air National Guard Reserves, Karen brings discipline, service, and a mission-driven mindset to her work, contributing to a more resilient and connected innovation economy.