Innovation is the lifeblood of progress and advancement in our rapidly changing world. It represents the creative spark that drives individuals, organizations, and societies to develop novel ideas, products, processes, and solutions to address challenges and improve the human experience. Whether through breakthrough technologies, inventive business models, or imaginative artistic expressions, innovators can reshape industries, enhance efficiency, and enrich our lives.
This year, the 2023 StartOut Innovator Award will be presented to Riana Lynn (she/her).
Riana is an Austin-based neo-scientist, creative entrepreneur, AI-patent holder, and technologist that is focused on bringing better data to the world’s biggest food and supply chain problems. She leads the fast-growing software startup Journey Foods. The company is backed by top VCs in North America, Europe, and Asia. Riana has served as a top consultant and VC to Fortune 500 food and CPG companies. She’s currently an angel investor, creative director, and former Google Entrepreneur in Residence. Riana also enjoys growing fruit trees, writing film scripts, and exploring culinary and architectural heritage sites around the world.
“Riana Lynn is the definition of both innovator and entrepreneur – she identifies a problem before anyone else and works actively to create a new solution,” said CEO Brian Richardson. “Her success not only has made our food systems and world better, but also serves as an inspiration to LGBTQ+ founders, women founders and BIPOC founders nationwide.”
Riana has been featured in Forbes, MIT 35 under 35, and serves as World Economic Forum Tech Pioneer. In addition to her work as an entrepreneur, Riana Lynn is also a sought-after speaker and educator and has taught at institutions like Stanford University and Harvard University. She is a vocal advocate for the importance of diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship. She has worked to inspire and support young people from diverse backgrounds to pursue careers in technology and innovation.