Build the future through innovation, collaboration, and
purpose. KIS® brings together founders, investors, operators,
and industry leaders to co-build companies and develop the
leaders shaping what comes next.
KASAMA® Innovation Studio · KIS®
Become a
KIS® Mentor
SEE MENTOR TIERS
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COMPLETE THE MENTOR INTAKE FORM
A PROVEN MODEL
BUILT BY
LEADERS WHO'VE
DONE THIS BEFORE
KASAMA® Innovation Studio was created by Shari Wynne Ressler,
an Austin-based entrepreneur and ecosystem builder dedicated to
helping people and their initiatives achieve success.
In 2011, Shari co-founded SKU, now a nationally recognized CPG
accelerator, where she remains a Board Member and Mentor.
Through SKU, she created a powerful model connecting founders
with experienced mentors, operators, and investors to accelerate
company growth and strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems.
KASAMA® Innovation Studio builds on that foundation with a broader
model designed to bring together leaders who believe collaboration,
responsible innovation, and shared expertise create stronger
companies and communities.
WHY KASAMA® INNOVATION STUDIOS
FOUR AREAS OF FOCUS
01
SOCIETAL INNOVATION
Purpose-driven organizations, social entrepreneurship,
innovation ecosystems, and community impact that generate
positive change.
02
HUMANE TECHNOLOGY
Artificial intelligence, responsible innovation, and human-centered
design that enhance human potential while maintaining trust.
03
COLLABORATIVE COMMUNITY
Trust, mentorship, and cross-sector partnerships that
build stronger organizations and shared leadership.
04
SOCIETAL INNOVATION
Psychological safety, leadership resilience, and purpose that
support human flourishing and stronger workplace culture.
Become a KIS® Mentor
FOUR AREAS OF FOCUS
KIS® Mentors are experienced leaders who want to contribute beyond their own organizations. They co-build with founders, participate in shaping future industries, and help create the companies and leaders that will define what comes next — beginning with the Future of Commerce, across consumer products, retail, supply chain, brand innovation, and emerging technologies.
Industry expertise & operating experience
Functional knowledge across key domains
Strategic relationships & networks
A seat in a collaborative innovation ecosystem
GET INVOLVED
FOUR AREAS OF FOCUS
For accredited investors who want an active role supporting cohort companies — participating in Mentor Teams and Future-of working groups, and sharing in the Cohort Equity Pool.
EQUITY MENTOR
For accredited investors and leaders who provide strategic guidance, relationships, and industry perspective at the highest level.
ADVISORY EQUITY MENTOR
For experts who contribute specialized knowledge across commerce, supply chain, brand, finance, AI, and other relevant domains.
SUBJECT-MATTER MENTOR
For invited Austin ecosystem ambassadors and civic leaders who support KIS® through relationships, connections, hosting, and community leadership.
COMMUNITY MENTOR
KIS® offers multiple ways to participate based on how you want to contribute. Not sure which is right for you? The intake form below will help match your experience, interests, and availability.
Let's innovate the innovation economy, together
READY TO BUILD POSITIVE
FUTURES WITH US?
COMPLETE THE KIS® INTAKE FORM
CONTACT US
We are better together
