Sofia Vegarra

At TEDCO, collaboration is more than a value; it is the connective tissue that binds our mission, our people, and the innovation ecosystem we serve. The success of Maryland’s entrepreneurs depends on an intricate network of relationships, and we see our role as facilitators of that connectivity, bringing together the right people, insights, and resources to help founders thrive.

As part of TEDCO’s Investment Team, collaboration lies at the heart of how we drive impact. My role as a Portfolio Manager provides a unique perspective across our investment portfolio. I manage data, work to improve fund performance, and ensure that founders have access to the right tools at the right time. Of course, these efforts only succeed when we are aligned internally and engaged externally. Whether it involves sharing portfolio insights with our colleagues, connecting founders to business resources, or learning directly from the entrepreneurs we serve, collaboration enhances every aspect of our work.

Founders are constantly navigating challenges such as raising capital, entering new markets, and scaling their teams. Our responsibility is not only to provide funding but also to foster an environment where they feel heard, supported, and equipped to grow. That begins with open communication and a mindset of partnership. By staying in touch with our portfolio companies, we learn what they truly need, and through collaboration across TEDCO’s diverse programs, we turn those needs into meaningful action.

What makes collaboration at TEDCO so powerful is that it extends beyond meetings or data sharing. It is embedded in our culture. Every conversation, shared insight, and new connection within our network contributes to the collective strength of Maryland’s innovation ecosystem. When we collaborate effectively, we create synergies that no single team or individual could achieve alone.

The results of this collaborative spirit are visible in the growth of our portfolio companies and the resilience of our ecosystem. We have seen how connecting a founder to the right mentor, funding partner, or development program can spark transformation for the broader community of innovators across the state.

At TEDCO, collaboration is not only about working together; it is about working with purpose. It means building trust, sharing knowledge, and creating a foundation where entrepreneurs and investors alike can flourish. When we collaborate, we do more than fund innovation—we cultivate it.