Accelerate Augusta is proud to announce the appointment of Shaun Andrews as its new Executive Director. A dynamic leader in entrepreneurship, education, and technology innovation, Andrews brings over 15 years of cross-sector experience in business development, mental health solutions, and community advancement to this critical role.

Andrews holds a Master of Public Administration from North Carolina Central University and a Bachelor’s in Political Science from Winston-Salem State University. His unique blend of academic insight and practical impact positions him as an ideal champion for Accelerate Augusta’s mission of fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth.

As the founder and CEO of Mind HAC, a pioneering mental wellness technology platform, Andrews has forged transformative partnerships with schools, local governments, and national research institutions. His innovative, data-driven mental health solutions have uplifted underserved communities, demonstrating his ability to create meaningful, lasting change. Additionally, Andrews has had a profound impact on entrepreneurship education by developing tech workforce pipelines, mentoring early-stage founders, and designing accelerator programs tailored for youth and marginalized populations.

Throughout his distinguished career, Andrews has driven the growth of small businesses while making significant contributions to academic institutions across the Southeast. In these roles, he spearheaded initiatives that expanded access to vital resources and opportunities, markedly improving success rates for students and entrepreneurs alike. He has also held key leadership positions at prominent corporations such as Norfolk Southern and Walmart, further showcasing his strategic expertise and versatility. A committed mentor and ecosystem builder, Andrews has collaborated with esteemed organizations like Launch Chapel Hill and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and served as board chair of the national non-profit Musical Empowerment, where he has empowered emerging leaders from diverse backgrounds.

Andrews’ unwavering dedication to innovation and inclusive entrepreneurship has earned him recognition as a trusted leader in program development and strategic growth throughout the region.

“Accepting this role with Accelerate Augusta is a profound honor,” said Andrews. “This region is primed for entrepreneurial growth, and I am committed to empowering the next generation of innovators to turn their visions into reality. Small businesses are the heartbeat of our nation, and I’m excited to build a foundation for lasting impact right here in Georgia.”

Accelerate Augusta, a small business incubator and microenterprise center, is made possible by a partnership between Augusta Tech and the Downtown Development Authority of Augusta. It is housed in the renovated I. M. Pei Building, situated in the heart of Downtown Augusta. The center will offer essential resources, mentorship, and opportunities for growth.

“Shaun Andrews brings a powerful combination of vision, innovation, and community commitment to this role,” said Julie Langham, Vice President of Economic Development at Augusta Technical College. “His leadership will be instrumental in launching Accelerate Augusta and aligning our region’s entrepreneurial ecosystem with workforce development and economic opportunity.”