Few leaders possess the blend of entrepreneurial experience, strategic leadership, and commitment to innovation that Nancy Grden brings to the Norfolk Innovation Corridor (NIC) and the broader Hampton Roads region. As President and CEO of the Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable and a member of NIC’s leadership, Grden’s work is a cornerstone of Norfolk’s transformation into a national innovation hub.
Building Regional Economic Strength
Grden leads the Hampton Roads Executive Roundtable, where her primary focuses are on expanding the regional economy, creating high-paying jobs, and driving entrepreneurship and innovation. Under her leadership, the Roundtable manages Region 5 of the Commonwealth of Virginia’s GO Virginia Program, which prioritizes growing industry clusters such as maritime, cybersecurity, advanced air mobility, green energy, and data analytics. This regional approach bolsters Norfolk’s innovation ecosystem, providing a foundation for sustainable economic growth.
A Champion for Maritime Innovation
With a career-long passion for maritime advancements, Grden has been instrumental in positioning Norfolk as a leader in this critical industry. Her previous roles include serving as the inaugural Executive Director of the Hampton Roads Maritime Collaborative for Growth & Innovation and co-convening Old Dominion University’s Maritime Initiative Leadership Group. These efforts have helped develop a robust maritime innovation ecosystem, including launching ODU’s School of Supply Chain, Logistics, and Maritime Operations.
An Entrepreneurial Trailblazer
Grden’s professional background is a testament to her enterprising spirit. She has founded or co-founded several companies, including Amerigroup, Genomind, and Lifescape, each addressing critical gaps in health care, biotechnology, and behavioral health. Her experience as a change agent in corporate, entrepreneurial, and public sectors equips her with the tools to navigate complex challenges and seize opportunities in Norfolk’s growing innovation ecosystem.
Empowering Women and Diverse Leaders
Grden’s dedication to diversity and inclusion shines through her advocacy and mentorship. She serves on boards and committees like Women Who Lead and Envision Lead Grow (ELG), where her contributions have earned her the ELG Trailblazer Award. Her leadership extends to her role as inaugural Chair of 757 Collab, fostering entrepreneurship across the Hampton Roads region.
A Vision for Norfolk’s Innovation Future
Within the Norfolk Innovation Corridor itself, Grden’s influence is deeply felt. Her strategic focus on collaboration across sectors—spanning business, government, and academia—ensures Norfolk remains competitive on the national and global stage. Her board roles with InnovateHR, the Hampton Roads Chamber, and the Norfolk Forum further amplify her impact, driving innovation through regional connectivity and shared vision.
Recognition and Legacy
Grden’s contributions have not gone unnoticed. She has been named to Virginia Business’s “Virginia 500: The Power List” and Inside Business’s “Top 25 Power List.” These accolades underscore her significant influence on Norfolk’s innovation agenda and her tireless efforts to make the city a beacon of economic and technological progress.
Nancy Grden’s leadership exemplifies the transformative power of collaboration, innovation, and entrepreneurship. Her work in fostering industry growth, championing maritime innovation, and empowering diverse communities makes her an indispensable figure in Norfolk’s journey toward becoming a national leader in innovation.
In our next installment, we’ll continue to spotlight the remarkable women shaping Norfolk’s future through the Norfolk Innovation Corridor.
