BDC and TEDCO Announce the Appointment of Dr. Arti Santhanam as ETC’s New Executive Director

ETC’s Strategic Relaunch Signifies a New Era for Baltimore’s Startup Community

The Baltimore Development Corporation (BDC) and the Maryland Technology Development Corporation (TEDCO) jointly announce the appointment of Dr. Arti Santhanam as the new Executive Director of Emerging Technology Centers(ETC). This strategic collaboration marks a significant step in ETC’s relaunch on February 1st, introducing a new public-private operational model enhancing support for Baltimore’s tech entrepreneurs. Dr. Santhanam brings extensive expertise in startup leadership, venture capital, and life sciences, making her ideally suited to lead ETC and foster its growth.

“We are thrilled about the relaunch of ETC under Dr. Santhanam’s leadership,” said Colin Tarbert, President & CEO of the Baltimore Development Corporation.  “Her experience at TEDCO and her vision for ETC will undoubtedly drive the organization to new heights, and we’re eager to see the positive changes she will bring to Baltimore’s startup landscape.”

This announcement follows a year of transition for ETC, highlighted by strategic planning and organizational changes, including the closure of its location at 101 N. Haven Street. The new plan, developed with extensive community input and the assistance of HR&A Advisors, identified key areas for improvement within Baltimore’s tech ecosystem. Critical findings included the stark underrepresentation of Black and female entrepreneurs and the lack of support for post-accelerator companies. Dr. Santhanam’s appointment directly responds to these challenges, offering a renewed focus on inclusivity, business management, and funding for local startups.

In conjunction with the relaunch, a new venture studio will be formed in collaboration with ETC to strengthen cooperation and synergy between the public and private sectors. Dr. Santhanam will be instrumental in guiding this initiative while managing her responsibilities at ETC. “Leading ETC into this next chapter is an honor,” Dr. Santhanam stated. “Our collaboration with public and private partners will be crucial in nurturing a more inclusive and prosperous entrepreneurial environment in Baltimore.”

Dr. Santhanam’s contributions over the last decade at TEDCO, especially her role in the Maryland Innovation Initiative (MII), have been instrumental in fostering Maryland’s diverse and innovative ecosystem. Established in 2012, MII has invested $52.3M, resulting in 176 startups from notable universities like Johns Hopkins, the University of Maryland, and Morgan. Before TEDCO, she worked in global health at MITRE Corporation and in private consulting, collaborating with USAMRIID and ECBC.

Dr. Santhanam earned her Master’s in Clinical Biochemistry from the University of Madras, India, and a PhD in Microbiology from Rutgers University, NJ, followed by a postdoc at the National Cancer Institute. She’s held roles on METAvivor Research and Support, Inc.’s Board and various Maryland advisory boards, demonstrating her leadership in health and innovation.

“Dr. Santhanam’s dedication to TEDCO, MII, and Maryland has known no bounds. We are extremely grateful for her leadership, which has expanded MII’s program and the growth of Maryland’s diverse and innovative ecosystem,” said Troy LeMaile-Stovall, TEDCO CEO. “Her new position at ETC is an extension of this dedication, and we’re delighted to support her in this journey.”

“It has been an honor working with Arti these past few years. Her knowledge, support, and commitment to Maryland has been inspiring,” said Renée Winsky, MII Board of Directors chair and president of Bay One Group. “While we are sad to see Arti move on to her next position, we know that this move will not only support Arti’s professional growth, but the growth and development of Maryland’s ecosystem. As we work together to ensure a smooth transition, we wish her well in her next adventure and look forward to working together in the future.”

ETC invites entrepreneurs, startups, public officials, and all stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem to engage with this joint initiative. ETC’s relaunch aims to enhance support for startups in business management, funding, and overall growth, addressing the vital needs of Baltimore’s tech community.

For further information, collaboration opportunities, or details on the strategic plan, please visit www.etcbaltimore.com or email info@baltimoredevelopment.com.