Kathy Odell

Kathy Odell is a seasoned entrepreneurial executive with over 35 years of experience in founding and leading early-stage and high-growth enterprises. She recently transitioned to the role of CEO Emerita at Women's Economic Ventures (WEV) after serving as CEO from May 2019 until her retirement in May 2024. Under her leadership, WEV became a significant resource for women entrepreneurs, providing business education, coaching, and funding, and helping to create or expand over 2,100 businesses while distributing more than $4.4 million in loans and grants.123

Odell's career has been marked by her commitment to economic empowerment for women and her efforts in advocating for gender equality in business. She has expressed gratitude for her time at WEV and remains dedicated to supporting women entrepreneurs, even as she steps away from day-to-day operations.234