Biography

Erin Horne McKinney is an accomplished and award-winning entrepreneur, dedicated to advancing financial inclusion and fostering social impact. She brings a wealth of experience in innovation, strategy, and leadership to her current role as the inaugural National Executive Director of the Howard University & PNC National Center for Entrepreneurship (HUxPNC Center).

Prior to her current position, Erin held key executive roles that underscore her commitment to supporting businesses and championing entrepreneurship. She served as the Executive Vice President of Innovation and Strategy for the Association of Enterprise Opportunity (AEO), CEO of WomenVenture, and Managing Partner of Inclusion for JumpStart Inc. Erin's influence extends to her tenure as the inaugural Senior Advisor on Innovation and Entrepreneurship in the Executive Office of the Mayor of Washington D.C.

Her expansive career also includes leadership roles with organizations such as the National Association of Multicultural Digital Entrepreneurs (NAMDE), the National Diversity Council, and the Maynard Institute. With a background in entrepreneurship and technology policy, Erin has also contributed to impactful research while holding positions with TechNet, the National Telecommunication and Information Administration within the U.S. Department of Commerce, and the National Black Caucus of State Legislators.

Beyond her professional achievements, Erin is the Founder of the globally recognized membership community, Black Female Founders, which she successfully led through acquisition. A seasoned executive, investor, communication scientist, and serial entrepreneur, Erin possesses more than two decades of experience in grantmaking, entrepreneurship, tech policy, venture capital, economic and business development, and marketing communications.

Dedicated to fostering inclusivity and diversity in the entrepreneurial landscape, Erin is an active member of Pipeline Angels and lends her expertise as an advisor and mentor to startups, incubators, and accelerator programs. She serves as the Vice Chair of the Mayor of Washington D.C.'s Innovation, Technology & Inclusion Council and holds board director positions with the Greater Twin Cities United Way, Tubman, and the Black Innovation Alliance. Erin's leadership also includes serving as the founding President & CEO of the African American Community Development Corporation (AACDC) in Minnesota. Proudly holding two degrees from Howard University, Erin remains an engaged alum, contributing to the University's legacy of excellence.