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Melissa Pancoast
Founder and CEO of The Beans
Melissa Pancoast is the Founder and CEO of The Beans, a financial technology company that aims to simplify financial planning through personalized, evidence-based solutions. She has been leading The Beans since October 2019, focusing on creating the world's first visual financial plan that integrates proven psychological principles and advanced technology to help individuals manage their finances more effectively.12
Background and Education
Pancoast is a Florida native and holds a Bachelor of Science in Political Science and Government from Stetson University. She also earned a Master of Science in Evidence-Based Social Intervention from the University of Oxford, where she conducted a thesis on economic behavior in South Africa, achieving a distinction.13
Career Highlights
Before founding The Beans, Pancoast had a diverse career in both education and entrepreneurship. She co-founded the Oxford Angel Fund, which supports Oxford-affiliated startups, and has held various roles in organizations focused on technology and education, including Comet Labs and Teach For America. Her work has often centered around using technology to address social and economic challenges.143
Recognition
In August 2023, Pancoast was recognized as a "2023 Fintech Founder to Watch," highlighting her contributions to the financial technology sector and her commitment to improving financial wellness for individuals, particularly those in caring professions.34