Zehra Mahid is the CEO of GIS, a Coaching and Mentorship Firm dedicated to empowering executives, professionals, high achieving students and political figures as they pursue career advancements, academic endeavors, and opportunities to give back to their communities in significant ways.

Zehra’s Mentorships and Coaching are based on 27 years of experience as a very successful Corporate Attorney for companies ranging from start-ups to Fortune 75’s. She’s worked closely with Senior Leadership and understands how much the “who” behind the “why” impacts business growth.

She’s coached high achieving U.S. and international students who’ve been accepted into and entered elite academic institutions, highly selective graduate training programs, top companies, law firms and philanthropies.

She’s worked as an English teacher and Speech & Debate instructor and is widely recognized in her community as a highly gifted educator who has changed lives and directly impacted the future.

Zehra is the mother of 4 daughters and stepmother to her husband David's two adult children. She is a professional committed to building principle-based leaders who will change the world by becoming CEO’s, public figures, political leaders, innovators, creators and philanthropists.

Register to attend December 2024 OVF Power Lunch

The importance of Ecosystem Builders in Oklahoma

Ecosystem builders are at the heart of Oklahoma’s entrepreneurial spirit. These builders connect startups, small businesses, investors, local government, and academic institutions to create a community where innovation and entrepreneurship can thrive. They also bring community leaders together, addressing shared challenges and promoting initiatives that strengthen the overall economy. Being a part of this vibrant group in Oklahoma creates a supportive network that empowers local businesses, and positions the state as a competitive place for entrepreneurs.

Oklahoma Venture Forum will hold a Share the Love event which spotlights our Ecosystem builders. If you are dedicated to fostering a thriving business landscape, I encourage you to sign up to participate and allow us to celebrate the work you are doing!

We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing you are our next gathering.

Register to attend December 2024 OVF Power Lunch

Unlocking Investment Insights: Wisdom from Scott McClain, Tom Evans,
and Jay Wallace

by Dennis Spielman

A trio of seasoned investors, each with a unique journey and perspective, is set to share invaluable advice at the upcoming Oklahoma Venture Forum Power Lunch. The panel features Scott McClain of Hobby Lobby’s HL Investments, Tom Evans of Encompass Financial Services, and Jay Wallace, an angel investor with a diverse tech background. Their collective expertise will provide a comprehensive exploration of strategies for seeking investments, the art of investing, and the evolving venture landscape in Oklahoma.

Scott McClain, a seasoned investor, has shaped his career by working with entrepreneurial giants like Sonic and Hobby Lobby. At Sonic, he saw firsthand how granting ownership stakes to managers drove success. Later, at Hobby Lobby, McClain’s focus turned to private equity and venture capital, aligning with experts to foster company growth. His extensive experience in both corporate and entrepreneurial settings makes him a valuable resource for aspiring investors.

“As an investor, the easiest thing to do is give somebody money,” Scott McClain said. “Being a good investor is being able to provide more than just money, but to provide additional resources to help somebody along in their journey.”

Scott McClain emphasized that honesty is a cornerstone for business success, particularly in relationships with investors. By fostering transparency and trust, entrepreneurs build stronger relationships and increase their chances of long-term success.

“We need to invest with people who are going to tell us the truth, no matter how much it hurts,” McClain said. He explained that open communication allows investors to step in and provide help when challenges arise, potentially saving a struggling business. “We’ve made a number of investments that we could have helped had we known things weren’t going well early on, but people waited too late to tell us, and then the business is lost.”

For those considering becoming investors, Scott McClain advises patience and aligning with experienced partners who can provide guidance.

“Don’t get in a hurry. Take your time and try to align yourself with people who really know what they’re doing and are really good at what they do,” McClain said. He stressed that successful investing is not about rushing into opportunities but building relationships with individuals with a proven track record of execution and expertise. “You’re much better off finding great people who are uniquely gifted in particular areas and helping them do what they’re successful in doing.”

Tom Evans, founder of Encompass Financial Services, has dedicated his career to helping businesses understand and grow their value.

“I always laugh and tell people I have the greatest job that was ever created,” Tom Evans said. “I love what I do, and every day, I wake up excited to do it again.”

Evans’ career began during his college years when he ran a furniture store with his wife. This early experience taught him valuable lessons about debits, credits, and the dynamics of business. Today, his firm works with companies of all sizes, determining valuations for partnerships, mergers, and other strategic decisions.

Tom Evans encourages aspiring investors to approach the process with a focus on collaboration and strategic clarity. By aligning with experienced professionals and honing in on businesses with clear value propositions, investors can position themselves for success while contributing to a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“There are so many avenues now—through groups like I2E, Hurricane Ventures, and Cortado. You don’t have to do it alone,” Tom Evans said. He pointed out that the barriers to entry have lowered significantly, allowing new investors to join groups or funds that pool resources and expertise. “You can get in at low thresholds and be part of a group—it’s way easier today than in the past.”

For those seeking investments, Tom Evans urges entrepreneurs to present their case succinctly. A concise and compelling pitch not only respects the investor’s time but also demonstrates the entrepreneur’s understanding of their own business and goals.

“Get to the story, cut to the chase, and tell me what you do and how it’s going to be profitable,” Evans said. He advised avoiding overly detailed presentations or reading lengthy documents, instead encouraging founders to outline their business model and profitability potential clearly. “Be clear on your exit strategy—how are you going to get out and make it tight.”

Jay Wallace’s career spans roles at major tech firms like Nike and DoorDash, as well as active participation in startup ecosystems. After two liquidity events, Wallace transitioned into angel investing, focusing on early-stage ventures where founder-product fit is key.

“I look for grit—a combination of passion and perseverance,” Jay Wallace said. “Some of the most successful startups out there aren’t the same business they were when they started. Founders who can pivot and persevere through challenges are the ones who succeed.”

Jay Wallace offered practical advice for those looking to become angel investors, emphasizing the importance of leveraging both capital and personal expertise.

“What I bring is capital and skills, and I’m combining those to try to get a return and help the community,” Wallace said. He encouraged aspiring investors to evaluate whether they can add operational value to the ventures they invest in, beyond just providing funding. “Am I valuable to this founder? If I can’t add value—whether through expertise, mentorship, or connections—I’m just as good as a check from anybody, and that’s not great.”

Wallace also advised taking small, calculated steps initially, learning from each investment, and gradually increasing the scale as confidence and experience grow, saying, “You make small investments and learn along the way.”

Wallace is particularly passionate about growing Oklahoma’s ecosystem. Many graduates are encouraged to move to places like Austin for better opportunities, and he believes this trend must change to build a thriving local ecosystem.

“We need to stop shipping talent outside of Oklahoma City,” Wallace said. “If we’re not taking chances early on and investing here first, we’re never going to grow our ecosystem.”

The panel discussion promises to be a deep dive into the nuances of investing, offering actionable insights for both entrepreneurs and aspiring investors. By attending, you’ll gain practical advice that you can immediately apply to your investment strategies, empowering you to make informed decisions and take your ventures to the next level.

“We understand how hard it is to get a business started,” McClain said. “But we’ve also seen the incredible rewards that come from building something impactful. We want to share our story so others can learn from our mistakes.”

“Overwhelmingly, people want you to succeed,” Evans said. “Find someone who can give you good, solid advice—and don’t be afraid to ask.”

For Wallace, the event is not just a discussion but a unique opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and learn from their experiences.

“The right people are here—we just need to bring them together,” Wallace said. “Don’t be afraid to reach out and connect. Together, we can build something amazing in Oklahoma.”

The Oklahoma Venture Forum Power Lunch will be held on Wednesday, December 11, 2024, and is open to members and guests in person and online. It will be held at Metro Tech EDC Room 123, 1700 Springlake Drive, Entry 13, Oklahoma City.

“By coming to this panel, you’ll walk away with tools, strategies, and connections to help you succeed in the ever-evolving investment landscape,” Wallace said.

Register to attend December 11, 2024 OVF Power Lunch

Oliver Shafaat
Sci-Lume Labs

Oliver Shafaat is the founder and CEO of Sci-Lume Labs™, where he conceived of and leads the development of Bylon™ polymer, fibers, and yarns. He received his PhD from Caltech, working at the crossroads of chemistry, biochemistry and biology. After, he moved to Japan and worked for a biotech where he discovered his love for fibers, while also noting that the significant demand for sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers by the apparel industry was not being satisfied. He decided to leverage his chemical expertise to bring truly sustainable, drop-in replacement fibers to the apparel market. Sci-Lume Labs develops Bylon, the truly circular apparel fiber without compromise. Bylon is made using highly efficient chemistries to transform agricultural waste into its renewable feedstock. Bylon is a thermoplastic polymer that can drop into existing synthetic fiber manufacturing facilities. At end-of-life, Bylon is 100% recyclable and biodegradable. Finally, Bylon offers familiar performance versatility and seamless integration into conventional downstream yarn and textile processing. By selectively combining the best of natural and synthetic fiber properties into a single product, Bylon is uniquely capable of achieving the large-scale adoption needed to enable a circular apparel future. With Bylon, apparel brands and manufacturers can now meet their sustainability targets without compromising on cost or performance.

Register to attend November 2024 Power Pitch Lunch

Gina Bertoletti
Moore Norman Technology Center

Talen Shortages and small business.

Small businesses have always been challenged with persuading employees to work for them. Large businesses create strong competition with bigger benefits/pay packages, perks, and established cultures that entice talent to apply.

In addition to these longstanding challenges, small businesses now face exaggerated employment issues such as employee turnover, elevated wages, and loss of critical workforce.  I assert that small businesses who put innovation at the helm, may have an edge after all!

Be creative in recruitment efforts.

• Allow remote work when it makes sense to do so. Doing this allows you to expand your talent pool from out of state allowing a broader range of talent to apply.
• Allow for flexible work schedules to accommodate family needs. Allow the employees to choose how they want to be paid for O.T . either cash or comp time.
• Broaden the selection process to include those who have been justice involved.
• JP Morgan hires approximately 10% of their hires from this category.
• Consider recruiting veterans or employees with disabilities.

The Oklahoma Rehabilitation services is a great place to start. WWW.okdrs.gov.

• Consider an employee referral program that rewards with cash.
• Post open positions on the following Central Oklahoma Social Media sites: Facebook & LinkedIn
• OKC Jobs Hiring—25K followers
• OKC Area Jobs—22K followers
• OKC Jobs—76K followers
• OKC/Edmond Jobs—23K followers
• Find a Job in OKC—17K followers
• Central OK Area Jobs—9.5K followers

Thank you for your commitment to OVF.  We look forward to connecting to you!

Register to attend November 2024 Power Pitch Lunch

Rustin Cavel | Coast

The fabric of finance is radically changing, and consumers need new tools to navigate the nuances of managing new asset classes. Coast connects the worlds of DeFi and TradFi enabling consumers to integrate digital assets (cryptocurrencies, NFTs, etc.) into a comprehensive financial plan. 

Rustin Cavel has been working in startups for over six years.  He graduated from the University of Texas with a Finance degree, is a self-taught application developer, and has been working full time in the blockchain industry for over 2 years.

He is passionate about helping people improve their financial well-being and leveraging technology to do so at scale. As blockchain technology continues to be adopted worldwide, he believes we've reached an inflection point that will change the way people interact and transact digitally. He and his co-founder at Coast seek to empower consumers to navigate the nuances of personal finance in a modern era of finance.

 https://www.getcoast.io 

Marten Hillen | Weaver Labs

Marten Hillen is a water sector leader with 15 years of global experience across Europe, Asia, and North America. Marten has a Civil Engineering Masters from Delft University of Technology (NL) and a MBA from Oklahoma State University (US). In his previous role he was responsible for marketing a proprietary wastewater treatment technology across the Americas. 

At Weaver Labs our vision is to create technologies and inspire innovations so that our environment and communities flourish. We aim to make water PFAS free. With our proprietary Flour Mop technology we provide a superior sorbent for efficient detection and advanced removal of long- and short chain PFAS contaminants. 

https://weaver-labs.com/ 

Chris Willis | Gogolean

Resilient, Agile and Sustainable All-In-One Cross-Sector, Industry, and Enterprise Supply Chain Management for Commercial Construction and Real Estate Management integrating Fleet Management, Third-Party Logistics and Warehousing and Insurance with Green Energy for the Industrial Future.

 Christopher B. Willis is the visionary founder and CEO of LeanEquip Systems, and its subsidiary, Gogolean Supply Chain Intelligence, a revolutionary B2B2C all-in-one business and industry iOS and Android mobile marketplace with cutting edge enterprise supply chain management technology for Commercial Construction and Real Estate Management stakeholders and partners for optimal results.

Under his leadership, the LeanEquip and Gogolean App development was bootstrapped financed by offshoring software development to the Philippines. A strategic pivot to Gogolean Supply Chain Ecosystem Intelligence was made based upon acquisition inquires of LeanEquip. Using the LeanEquip sourcing code, continuous improvements and integration were made for building the Gogolean Ecosystem platform, business execution and strategy.

Gogolean Supply Chain Intelligence is the ‘Construction Tech Review’ Magazine’s ‘Construction Tech App of 2023’ Cover Story:

Top Construction Mobile Apps Companies (constructiontechreview.com)

Gogolean, a LeanEquip Systems Company | Top Construction Mobile Apps Company-2023 (constructiontechreview.com)

Gogolean Supply Chain Intelligence, A LeanEquip Systems Company started as a haunch with no available data for supporting the idea of digital supply chain future. Recently, Gogolean Supply Chain Intelligence received a private equity inquiry from a Web3 family office/tech company but was not a fit as they acknowledged our initial offshore strategy was the best. Now digital supply chain transformation is essential given recent business, industry and supply chain issues as Gartner Research forecasts 80% B2B procurement will by digital by 2025 with marketplaces being the primary driver for servicing the customer.

For complete information, value-added video demos, blog registration, and investor relations, visit our website: https://gogolean.io.

Alex Baird | Beacon

Beacon is a B2B SaaS platform that helps businesses transform their best parking spaces into premium assets that generate new streams of revenue, support local nonprofits, and drive repeat visits from top customers. Our mission is to transform the humble parking space from a commodity into a convenience, from a convenience into an experience, and from an experience into a community. 

Alex Baird is the Founder and CEO of Beacon. Alex graduated from Norwich University in 2012 as a Second Lieutenant and served as a pilot in the United States Air Force flying the E-3 AWACS at Tinker AFB, Oklahoma. He has deployed on combat operations to Iraq and Syria, most notably during the Russian Syrian Military Intervention of 2015.

After leaving the service, he used his long-time frustration with the crowded and disorganized parking at Tinker Air Force Base to found Beacon, a company on a mission to reshape the way we think about parking in the 21st century.

https://www.gobeacon.us

^{Founded in 2023, Patient Inform is a healthcare technology company dedicated to transforming the emergency room experience. With over 20 years of healthcare experience, our platform leverages advanced AI and machine learning to provide real-time updates and personalized communication, reducing patient anxiety and improving operational efficiency. We aim to put patients back at the center of care while enhancing the quality of healthcare delivery nationwide.}

^{Patient Inform offers a cutting-edge platform that integrates seamlessly with existing hospital systems, providing patients with real-time updates on wait times and treatment progress. Our solution is designed to enhance patient satisfaction, reduce wait times, and alleviate the operational burdens on healthcare staff. Through personalized communication and data-driven insights, Patient Inform ensures that patients are well-informed and engaged throughout their healthcare journey, leading to better outcomes and higher satisfaction rates.}

^{Patient Inform is committed to making healthcare more transparent, efficient, and patient-centered, ensuring that every patient receives the care and attention they deserve.}

^{Patient Inform is a comprehensive platform designed to enhance the patient experience in emergency rooms through real-time communication and operational efficiency. The platform integrates with existing hospital systems, utilizing advanced AI and machine learning to provide patients with real-time updates on wait times and care progress. This ensures that patients remain informed and engaged throughout their care journey, reducing anxiety and improving overall satisfaction. Additionally, healthcare providers benefit from streamlined processes and reduced administrative burdens, allowing them to focus more on patient care.}

 ^ATTEND

Empowering Oklahoma’s Manufacturing Future
Spotlight on Joe Edmondson

Being an entrepreneur means living the American Dream. According to HubSpot, 92% of entrepreneurs don’t regret starting their own business. Fortunately, Oklahoma is rich with small business resources such as Incubators, Networking opportunities, and partners like the SBDC, The Verge, and I2E.

Oklahoma provides some of the best resources such as the Tom Love innovation Hub which has a fabrication lab to support prototypes, OCAST provides see capital, Incubators that include on site advisement are worth their weight in gold, and of course the list of business coaches and mentors are abundant in our state, most of which do not charge a fee.

Utilizing resources in the beginning stages of the business allows owners to focus on growth. Being connected to other entrepreneurs and listening to their stories helps with connection and finding best practices. Seek networking opportunities and keep innovating! The American dream is alive and well in Oklahoma!

ATTEND

James Denton, Partner Emeritus/Wealth Management Advisor 
Arledge

JAMES S. DENTON, CPA/PFS, CGMA

Partner Emeritus/Wealth Management Advisor (formerly Managing Shareholder/President/CEO)

Arledge & Associates, P.C. (Certified Public Accountants) Edmond, Oklahoma (405) 348-0615, (405) 823-0793, jim.denton@arledge.cpa

Background, Education and Career:

Jim is originally from Ponca City, Oklahoma and graduated from Ponca City High School in 1976. While in high school, he served as high school orchestra president. He was selected all-state orchestra member his last two years and worked in school leadership positions. Throughout secondary school, he also led activities (volunteer organizations, camp counseling) related to working with children and adults with developmental disabilities. He had a high interest in serving this group as his youngest brother was born with Down’s Syndrome.

Jim obtained a Bachelor of Music Education Degree in 1980 from the University of Central Oklahoma. While at UCO, he was on the Dean’s Honor Roll, a member of Who’s Who in American Colleges and Universities, Chi Alpha (music leader), Baptist Student Union, Phi Mu Alpha Sinfonia (music fraternity), Tunesmiths, Men’s Glee Club (president), Symphony (4-year scholarship), Jazz Ensemble, Marching Band, Kappa Delta Pi (Education) and Alpha Chi (scholastic). He taught public school (music) in the Pond Creek-Hunter, Oklahoma School District before returning to UCO in 1982. At Pond Creek-Hunter Schools, Jim served as high school band director, elementary music teacher and junior class sponsor responsible for directing the class play.

In 1982, Jim redirected his career and obtained a Bachelor of Science in Accounting in 1984. While working on his accounting degree, he taught part-time music at Oklahoma Christian Schools and was a leader in the UCO Accounting Club. While in school he worked procuring accounting clients for his own bookkeeping practice. At UCO, he also led accounting informal study groups to assist other students and worked various temporary assignments during and between school terms.

Arledge & Associates, PC – May 1984 through present:

Jim has been with the firm since 1984 - he was employed during the firm’s first year of business. Having obtained the CPA in 1986, he stepped forward from being a tax preparer to lead the firm’s audit department starting in 1986 when the firm took on some of its first governmental engagements. He was admitted as a firm shareholder in 1989. Under his direction, the firm’s audit department grew from one not-for-profit client in the mid-1980s to an audit and consulting base of over 17,000 hours through 2007. Upon the firm founder’s retirement in January 2008, Jim was tapped to serve as the firm’s managing partner/President and CEO. The firm experienced significant growth during the next 10 years and doubled its revenues and team members during that time. As a result of the firm’s growth and community involvement, the firm was one of three finalists in 2015 for the Edmond Chamber’s Small Business of the Year. Also, the firm was selected as one of the Metro 50–the top 50 growing businesses in the Oklahoma City Area. The firm currently has over 500 clients, over 40 employees and has $5 million in annual revenue. Having obtained FINRA, NASSA and insurance licensing, he now leads the firm’s wealth management business.

Service to the Profession:

Oklahoma Society of CPAs. Jim served as a OSCPA Governmental Accounting and Auditing Committee member (1989–2014) and the Chairman from 1994 through 1997. He then served on OSCPA Liaison with Educational Institutions committee (2014 – 2016). In 2017, he received a 30-year membership recognition. He served as member, Vice Chair and ultimately Chair of the Educational Foundation (2016-2020). Also served as Director at Large of OSCPA and is periodically called on for live state-wide television appearances. Jim received the OSCPA’s Silver Pen Award in 2021 for his 2020 OSCPA FOCUS article entitled Ethics Takes Practice. He presents regularly at conferences and CPE sessions. In 2022, he was recognized as an OSCPA Pathfinder. In 2023, he received the OSCPA’s Gold Pen Award for his 2022 OSCPA FOCUS article entitled The Ethics Lessons of Better Call Saul. He is a frequent conference presenter; various state-wide television appearances on short notice; Day of Service participant. Member since 1986.

JAMES S. DENTON, CPA/PFS, CGMA

Service to the Profession (Cont’d):

American Institute of CPAs. Jim earned the Certificate of Educational Achievement in Governmental Accounting and Auditing. Member of Tax Section, PFP/PFS Section and holds the PFS and CGMA designations. Member since 1986.

Oklahoma Accountancy Board – Case Investigator 2001 - 2021.

Oklahoma Incentive Evaluation Commission - 2015 - 2019. Appointed by Gov. Mary Fallin upon recommendation by OSCPA.

Service to the Community:

Edmond Chamber of Commerce. Jim has served as the Chairman of the Board/executive committee (first five-year term) of a 5-Star Chamber. He serves on the Steering Committee for the Chamber’s Small Business Owners’ Alliance.

Oklahoma Venture Forum - Executive Committee member; Board Treasurer; Board member since 2015; Awards selection committee; Mentoring of entrepreneurs; Individual Member since 2012.

Edmond History Museum/Edmond Historical Society – Currently serves as Board Secretary of a local award-winning museum.

YMCA (Mitch Park & Rankin Branches) - Annual Campaign Champion; "Rookie of the Year" for the 2019 Campaign

Personal:

Married in 1981 to Cathie Smith (Denton). Cathie teaches piano (retired).

Daughter (Mary) Abigail, 1987. Edmond Memorial HS, Oklahoma State University – Bachelor of Music Education 2010 – Oklahoma University – Master in Conducting (Abby was hired as an Assistant Band instructor – Broken Arrow Public Schools Sapulpa Public Schools in 2022). Abby married Adam Bruce in 2011. Granddaughters – Elizabeth Avella Bruce (2015), Evelyn Juliet Bruce (2019).

Church – Crossings Community Church, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Register to attend the September 11, 2024 Power Lunch