Kauffman Foundation names executive director for 1 Million Cups and Kauffman FastTrac®

Olatunji Ajani has been named Executive Director for 1 Million Cups and Kauffman FastTrac®. A current Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation associate, Ajani brings a wealth of experience in inclusive entrepreneurship and as a workforce development leader. Ajani will begin his new role on July 1, 2024.   

Ajani is poised to drive forward the mission of empowering entrepreneurs and fostering vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystems. His strategic vision and passion for innovation are ready to propel these initiatives into the future, further solidifying their impact on the entrepreneurial landscape, both locally and nationally. 

Prior to joining the Kauffman Foundation in 2022, Olatunji led programmatic work for the Lemelson Foundation and the Aspen Institute, where he was tasked with sustaining, growing, and developing data-driven strategies to achieve impact. Olatunji has played key roles in management consulting, technology start-ups, impact network management, and non-profit leadership. 

“I am thrilled to join 1 Million Cups and Kauffman FastTrac® as the Executive Director,” said Olatunji Ajani. “These programs can change the trajectory of cities by nurturing entrepreneurs and fostering innovation within our communities. By supporting entrepreneurs, we’re supporting the workforce of our future.”  

Kauffman FastTrac® is an entrepreneurial education program that carries out Mr. Kauffman’s belief that everyone has a fundamental right to turn an idea into an economic reality, while 1 Million Cups seeks to provides a supportive, inclusive space for entrepreneurs and their communities to gather and connect, where they can work through business challenges and identify opportunities. Both programs were launched by the Kauffman Foundation to address root causes and break down systemic barriers so that all people have the opportunity to achieve economic stability, mobility, and prosperity. 

“The Foundation remains committed to strengthening economic mobility through entrepreneurship and hiring Olatunji to lead these efforts is a continued demonstration of that commitment,” said Dr. DeAngela Burns-Wallace, CEO, Kauffman Foundation. “His dedication to creating sustainable impact and his passion for nurturing long-term success will undoubtedly strengthen these initiatives for years to come. Greater equitable economic mobility for all is our vision and our support of these programs is one more step towards that.” 

Please direct questions regarding the Foundation’s executive director to Lauren Aleshire, senior communications manager, or Kim Wallace Carlson, director of strategic communications.