SU innovators meet Senior VP of Blackstone Charitable Foundation

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The Blackstone LaunchPad powered by Techstars at SU Libraries student innovators and members of the SU innovation ecosystem had the chance to meet with David Wachtel, Senior Vice President of the Blackstone Charitable Foundation, this week for an informal roundtable discussion.  The event focused on initiatives underway at the Syracuse University LaunchPad, as well as best practices from around the global network.

Before joining the Foundation, Wachtel helped Endeavor, a major non-profit organization operating in 25 countries, to build marketing awareness and successful corporate partnerships, drawing on over 25 years of experience in print, electronic and broadcast media.

Originally a business journalist, Wachtel held senior publishing and marketing roles in financial media for Institutional Investor, Bloomberg and the Wall Street Journal. Starting in 2008, Wachtel served as a senior adviser and consultant to a range of media companies, providing industry, market and business insights and expertise in the areas of organizational analysis, marketing, sales development and training as well as new product initiatives. On a tactical level, he has been involved in everything from development of multiplatform ad sales packages, events and category research to design and oversight of websites, promotional videos and TV pilots.

Starting in 2010, he began using his marketing and media skills to help non-profit Endeavor increase brand awareness, improve communications and build partnerships with leading global corporations and financial institutions.

His specialties include:

  • Building partnerships around corporate marketing and CSR objectives
  • Multiplatform media strategy (print, web, video, events)
  • New product development
  • Business development and sales training
  • Event conception, promotion and development

Blackstone Charitable Foundation’s Entrepreneurship Initiative is a global commitment to advance entrepreneurial thought and activity in the United States and globally. Through Blackstone LaunchPad, Blackstone Entrepreneurs Network, Blackstone Inclusive Entrepreneurship Challenge, and Blackstone Innovation Grants, the Foundation encourages and empowers the entrepreneurs who create jobs and stimulate economic growth around the world.

The Blackstone Charitable Foundation provided seed funding to establish the LaunchPad at Syracuse University.