Kelly Benson serves as a mentor for TEDCO’s Rural Business Innovation Initiative and BRIDGE programs. In this role, he works with entrepreneurs to evaluate business opportunities, strengthen their operations, connect with resources, and develop practical strategies for sustainable growth.
Kelly is a multi-business founder with more than a decade of experience launching and growing technology-enabled ventures across outdoor recreation, shared mobility, hospitality, and tourism. His experience includes developing innovative and scalable business models, integrating technology into traditional industries, building teams and operational systems, securing grant funding, and expanding businesses into new markets.
As an entrepreneur, Kelly understands the challenges founders face when moving from an idea to a viable and scalable business. He brings a practical, hands-on perspective to mentoring and helps entrepreneurs identify priorities, overcome barriers, and make informed decisions as their businesses develop.
Kelly also brings experience serving in elected public office. That perspective has given him firsthand insight into leading government, working with public institutions, and understanding how business, policy, economic development, and community priorities intersect.
Kelly holds a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the University of Maryland.