What a difference a year makes

One year ago, the reality of the COVID-19 pandemic was setting in. What a difference a year makes! Since then, diagnostics, therapeutics, and vaccines were developed at an unprecedented rate due to the coordinated efforts around the world. Many San Diego companies contributed to this effort and as a result we are turning the corner in our efforts to contain the pandemic. San Diego has also been at the forefront of innovation in other areas. I felt a sense of pride to learn that five of the cameras and other technology on the Mars Perseverance were from San Diego companies.

By entrepreneurs for entrepreneurs

I am optimistic that 2021 will bring even more innovation, with the robust San Diego ecosystem at the forefront. Since 2010, the San Diego Entrepreneurs Exchange has helped to foster this strong community. Our strength is in our name—we exchange knowledge and support to one another through a variety of events, programs, and peer-to-peer networking. I’m honored to follow prior SDEE Presidents Randy Schreckhise, Taylor Moyer, Scott Struthers, and Scott Thacher. I joined the organization in late 2015 after presenting at a partnering workshop and was inspired by the energy, commitment, and most of all the camaraderie I witnessed. I have heard many people from other regions mention that San Diego is so collaborative and SDEE is proud to be a part of that.

Looking ahead

Although this last year has been challenging, it has also brought opportunities. We have had events such as virtual happy hours and panels with speakers from outside San Diego. This has served to expand our reach and breadth. I am pleased to be working with a talented Board and Executive Committee on new and exciting events and programs. Over the next couple years we plan to expand SDEE’s impact, increase awareness of our San Diego ecosystem, and broaden our focus to additional members in sectors and industries. We are also launching a fresh, new website—so keep a look out for that.

Our supporters

I would like to thank our sponsors Morrison Foerster, Alexandria, Takeda, BDO, Longfellow, Wagenknecht IP Law Group, Marsh & McLennan, and The Pineapple Hustle for their support. We are an all-volunteer driven organization and rely on member and sponsor support. If you aren’t a member, please consider joining. If you are a member, we’d love to have you get involved and bring your talents to one of our dynamic committees focused on membership, communications, fundraising, events, sustainability, and more.

Thank you for your support of SDEE. On behalf of the SDEE Executive Committee, I wish you all the best for 2021.

Marilyn Ferrari, SDEE President