Big changes are coming to parallel18!

Change is inevitable. In fact, as a program, we look for startups that transform industries, markets, and people’s lives.

And now is the time for a change in parallel18. And it’s an amazing change! It means growth for many of our peers, the chance to strengthen Puerto Rico’s capability for innovation and optimize our program’s capabilities.

First up, Sebastian Vidal, who served as the program’s Executive Director for the past five years, will transition to a new position inside our parent organization the Puerto Rico Science, Technology, and Research Trust (PRSTRT) as its first Chief Innovation Officer. A key role that will not only continue to oversee parallel18’s development and strategy but that will help him impact all of the PRSTRT programs with innovation.

Second, Eduardo Padial, a person who has been key in implementing new ways to track and measure our startups’ development and who has forged relationships of immense value to the program will take the role to manage parallel18 day to day operations as its new Operations Director. Led by Sebastian, Eduardo will handle the program’s day to day and will lead the team to continue their amazing work.

We know, this might come as a surprise for many but we are super excited for what lies ahead. These changes will allow parallel18 to keep doing what we do best, which is to help and support underrepresented entrepreneurs to grow and scale their high impact businesses while positioning Puerto Rico as a hub for innovative entrepreneurship. As for Sebastian’s new role, we are certain that he will impact many with his drive and passion to solve problems in his new role at the PRSTRT. As a team, we were honored to work under his leadership and we are beyond proud to be part of an organization that allows growth and that keeps betting on innovation and entrepreneurship as a way to promote Puerto Rico’s economic development.

Stay tuned for more about our next steps, including the announcement of pre18’s third generation, Gen.8’s DemoDay, a new open call for international startups, and our Year 4 Impact Report.