StartOut Staff

Tony Moraga
Director of Operations

Tony comes to StartOut as a leader in the LGBT business movement through his work with the SF LGBT Center’s Economic Development Department and with the Golden Gate Business Association, the nation’s first LGBT Chamber of Commerce. Throughout his career, he has gained extensive experience in non-profit management, business development and organizational development. At the Center, he trained new and established entrepreneurs and supported them in business planning, financial management, credit-building and accessing capital leading to over $800,000 in debt financing and the launch of over 50 new businesses. He is passionate about social entrepreneurship and strives to be a catalyst for change by creating innovative solutions that positively impact our community.

Born and raised in southern California, Tony moved to San Francisco after earning a B.S. degree in International Business from San Diego State University and studying at Universitat de Barcelona. He speaks fluent Spanish and conversational French and has an interest in local politics and equity investing.

Contact Tony at tony.moraga@startout.org.

Marco Pretell-Vazquez
Community Coordinator

Marco comes to StartOut with a background in advocacy, community outreach and event coordination focused on education. He also has experience in web production, social media, and leading a successful online communications strategy. He is passionate about having a positive impact on the community.

At StartOut, he will be in charge of implementing and facilitating event coordination in New York with StartOut’s NY Programming Committee. He will also be creating relationships with New York partners and StartOut Members. In addition, Marco will be supporting StartOut events and communications for other chapter cities nationwide. He is enthusiastic about being able to provide a platform for LGBT entrepreneurs to become successful.

Prior to moving to New York, Marco studied International Business with concentrations in Spanish and Marketing. In 2009, he graduated from Ball State University in Muncie, Indiana. He enjoys international travel, current events and speaks Spanish fluently.

Contact Marco at marco.pvazquez@startout.org.