Andy has an extensive background working in accelerators, startups, and the digital space. Prior to joining FFC, Andy led the launch of Luminate NY, the world's largest optics, phonics, and imaging accelerator.
Over his nearly six years there, Andy was instrumental in creating the 6-month program from scratch and recruiting six cohorts, of ten companies each, worldwide. Program graduates have gone on to raise tens of millions in follow-on funding. During his tenure as operations director, he was involved in deploying over $16M of capital, securing partnerships with international brands such as Sony and Zeiss, to managing the board, investors, and program sponsors. Previous to Luminate, Andy was the founder of Dogways Inc., a venture-backed mobile app startup; President of Toontrack Music USA, launching the Swedish music software firm in the U.S. and leading it to #1 in the world in sales; XLN Audio of Sweden, leading them to 15x sales growth; Brixy Inc., a 150+ baby store association, launching their digital platform; Brannland Cider of Sweden, launching the brand in the U.S. in 2017, and Andrea Arden, celebrity pet trainer, on numerous digital and business projects.
Andy is also an accomplished musician, having written and produced songs for major label artists worldwide, including a #1 single in 2013 for Hey! Say! JUMP of Japan.