DBT40 Honoree: Noah Olson

Title: Director of Innovation

Workplace: Delaware Prosperity Partnership

Age: 33

Noah Olson | DBT PHOTO BY LUIGI CIUFFETELLI

A political junkie growing up, Noah Olson spent time working for Sen. Tom Carper and then, when he was just 25, got the chance to manage the winning statewide campaign for former Attorney General Matt Denn.

Service in the First State has been a key part of his career, and he currently serves as director of innovation for the Delaware Prosperity Partnership, the public-private organization tasked with driving the state’s economic development. He was promoted to the director role after 18 months in support, and has helped drive efforts to recruit high-tech employers, prepare needed laboratories and install preparatory infrastructure.

Olson has also led the organization of a pitch competition, Startup 302, that awards cash grants to companies led by founders from underrepresented backgrounds, which so far has awarded over $440,000 to 22 companies.

Aside from his DPP duties, Olson supports partners in organizing events beneficial to our community, including Spur Impact’s Millsummit and the Emerging Enterprise Center’s Entrepreneurial Summit. He also serves on the Young Professional’s Board at the Delaware chapter of Junior Achievement.

The husband and dad of two little ones also enjoys tackling crazy endurance challenges, including 100-mile ultramarathons and Ironman competitions.