Success can be all about connecting with the right people.
The Accelerator is led by Chief Executive Officer Darrin Redus, along with a core team of partners, serving as coaches and subject-matter experts offering a customized set of business solutions and growth strategies for Minority Entrepreneurs and Ecosystem Partners.
Darrin Redus
Chief Executive Director
Darrin is a national thought leader in inclusive entrepreneurship and the growth of larger-scale diverse businesses. A seasoned business executive and successful entrepreneur, he previously served as President and CEO of MainStreet Inclusion Advisors, a consulting firm dedicated to developing diverse, technology-based businesses and networks. Darrin earned his Master’s in Business Administration from Baldwin Wallace University and a Bachelor’s in Business Administration from the University of Mount Union.
Curtis Hollis
Chief Operating Officer
In this role, Curtis is responsible for enhancing the internal organizational processes and infrastructure that will allow the Minority Business Accelerator to continue to grow and fulfill its mission. Curtis brings 29 years of senior executive banking experience in operational effectiveness, product development, revenue generation, credit risk, and strategy development. Curtis is a graduate of Tennessee State University with a degree in Business Administration. He is also a University of Washington graduate of Pacific Coast Banking School (PCBS).
Monique Winston
Chief Resource & Development Officer
Monique Winston, Chief Resource and Development Officer at the Minority Business Accelerator, brings over 29 years of experience in Title Insurance and Financial Services. She leads initiatives to build corporate partnerships and entrepreneurial cohorts that empower minority-owned businesses. As President of MWINS Consulting and the Ohio Realtist Association, she provides consulting, speaking, and training services internationally. Monique holds a J.D. from Duquesne University and is a nationally recognized advocate for women and minority business owners.
Laura Sandstrom
Managing Director, Investments & Client Engagement
Laura brings over 20 years of experience in valuation consulting, having worked with clients from startups to multinationals at Big 4 and boutique firms. She held leadership roles at Paycor, where she developed SaaS metrics for board reporting and a competitive intelligence library, and at Belcan as Senior Director of Finance, overseeing M&A activities and global cash management. Laura holds a B.S. in Business Administration from Xavier University, a Mini MBA from Miami University, and is an Accredited Senior Appraiser. She also serves as a Silent Board Member at Connetic Ventures.
Destini Brodi
Investor
Destini Brodi supports the investment team as a Senior Associate at the Minority Business Accelerator leveraging her background in philanthropy management, entrepreneurship, impact investing, private equity, and venture capital. During her time at the MBA, Destini has been pivotal in securing 25% of the MBA’s inaugural fund, has reviewed over 200+ deals for investment and presented at National Tech Conferences. Destini’s passion for entrepreneurship and place-based investing began when she co-founded Leadership, Entrepreneurship, and Prestige (LEAP)—a non-profit designed to improve economic wealth within St. Lawrence County, NY by teaching students how to create opportunities within their community. She went on to later served as an advocate and fundraising advisor for the Girl Rising Foundation, a student ambassador for UN Women, an expert advisor for Pacific Community Ventures (PCV) and Goodie Nation, as well as a member of Women Invested in Sustainable Economies (WISE), VentureNext, ForbesBLK, BLCK VC, and Women in VC. Destini’s prior roles include previously working as a summer analyst with The Carlyle Group, a senior investment banking analyst at Siebert Williams Shank, an associate at Rev1 Ventures, and Bridges Impact Foundation. She holds a BBA in Finance from The College of William & Mary.
Christine Rochester
Managing Director, Investments & Client Engagement
With over 20 years of banking and financial services experience, Christine has developed a deep understanding of the financial industry and the key factors that drive business success at all levels. Christine’s core competencies include new business development, business relationship management, analytics, and deal structuring and negotiations, which have enabled her to provide cutting-edge banking solutions tailored to the needs of clients ranging from start-ups to large multi-nationals. Prior to joining MBA Fund I, Christine served as Vice President at JPMorgan Chase & Co. on the Middle Market Banking & Specialized Industries team. In this role she served corporations, municipalities, and not-for-profit entities across various industry segments. She also leveraged the firm’s global resources, local delivery model, and industry expertise to facilitate growth and maximize the potential of her clients. Christine has built an extensive and successful career in financial services following a personal mission to build long-term relationships and deliver comprehensive financial solutions that are customized, convenient, and competitive. Christine holds a BBA and Masters of Business Administration from NOVA Southeastern University, and maintains an extensive list of industry credentials and certifications.
Dani Morris
Chief Financials Officer
Dani Morris is the CFO at JumpStart, where she oversees revenue, compliance, and $15M in grant fund reporting, managing the organization’s budget, financial projections, and internal controls. She also serves as a fractional CFO for the Minority Business Accelerator. With over 20 years of nonprofit finance expertise, Dani’s background spans large ERP systems, customized financial solutions, and team leadership. Previously, she was Assistant Controller at Case Western Reserve University and is a board member for DanceCleveland. She holds a BA from Cleveland State University and an MBA from Case Western Reserve.
Asia Davis
Executive Assistant & Program Manager
Asia works closely with the CEO, COO and the team providing administrative and executive support. She serves as the primary contact for internal and external communications for all client relations, goal setters, and portfolio firms. Asia assists with the coordination of various activities, meetings, and events. Asia has served various teams throughout her time with the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber including the Office of the President, Leadership Center, and Membership. She brings exemplary executive support to her team. Asia is a loving wife and mother of five. She enjoys spending quality time with her family and working alongside her husband Tracey in ministry.
Mark Merkel
Executive Business Consultant
Mark Merkel is a Business Consultant at the Minority Business Accelerator (MBA), where he offers due diligence support and strategic guidance to minority entrepreneurs. As the Founder and CEO of M Business Advisors, LLC, Mark leads business growth and strategic initiatives nationwide. His experience includes a 25-year tenure at Wells Fargo, serving as President of both Wells Fargo Financial Leasing, Inc., and Wells Fargo Financial Preferred Capital, Inc. Mark holds a Bachelor’s in Finance and Economics from Drake University.