David Watkins

David Watkins was named senior Vice President of Entrepreneurship & Small Business in January 2023. He oversees a team managing ecosystem development, technical assistance and capital programs for Hoosier entrepreneurs, investors, and small businesses such as the State Small Business Credit Initiative (SSBCI), manufacturing readiness grants, Elevate Ventures, and the Indiana Small Business Development Center (BDCS). Watkins has served in several roles supporting entrepreneurs while at the IEDC, including as state director of the Indiana SBDC. As state director, David oversaw the significant growth and expansion of the organization to a team of 80+ staff across 11 offices which provide technical assistance, programming and development services to Hoosier entrepreneurs and small businesses. In 2022, the Indiana SBDC served nearly 5,500 entrepreneurs and small businesses - helping secure over $100 million in capital, and assisting in the creation of 407 new businesses.

Prior to joining the IEDC, David worked in university international affairs and global programs at Butler University and at Indiana University – Purdue University, Indianapolis. Watkins spent significant time working throughout Europe, the Middle East, and the Indo-Pacific.

David has an MBA in entrepreneurship and finance from Butler University and bachelor’s degrees in international affairs and political science from the University of Cincinnati. He is active in local business organizations such as the Indiana Venture Club and the Association for Corporate Growth. david and his wife Eleanor, an interior designer at bsa lifestructures, live in Indianapolis’ Butler-Tarkington neighborhood and enjoy traveling and gardening.