This session will break down market growth, spotlight key players driving capital into the space, and explore where investors like Next Ventures are placing their bets. Walk away with a sharper understanding of where the money is going and why the smartest investors are already there.
Melanie Strong
Mel started her career as a first-grade teacher and journalist. A chance meeting at the Boston Marathon led to an interview for an entry level job at Nike. She spent 17 years there, where she led businesses including Nike Women and Nike Skateboarding, and worked on the launch of the Nike Running and Training Club apps. In 2019 she left Nike to co-found venture capital firm NEXT VENTURES, focused on early-stage investments across health and wellness in companies like Oura ring and Outside. She serves on the boards of Cofertility, Ramble Campgrounds, Sage Hospitality, University of Oregon’s Knight Campus, Outdoor Afro and USA Cycling — and when she’s not traveling you can find her mountain biking on the trails in Hood River Oregon.