Empowering Innovation: Marnie LaVigne’s Role in Transforming Upstate NY’s Startup Ecosystem

A Journey of Entrepreneurial Innovation

Long before Marnie LaVigne became the CEO of Launch NY, she was already embodying the entrepreneurial spirit her organization seeks to nurture today. Her career began as a clinical psychology graduate student at the University of Rochester, where she became involved with Health Information Technologies, a Rochester-based company. This venture went public as Patient InfoSystems Inc., with LaVigne as co-founder and vice president of clinical and data services.

Diverse Experience in Healthcare and Economic Development

LaVigne’s career continued to flourish as she joined New York-based Medscape Inc. shortly after it went public. She also founded her own healthcare consulting business and served as project director at BuffLink Inc., a nonprofit economic development organization. These experiences deepened her passion for innovation and connecting with people who had the vision, know-how, and drive to make a difference.

Leadership at Launch NY

In 2014, LaVigne was named president and CEO of Launch NY, a nonprofit venture development organization dedicated to fostering entrepreneurship in Upstate New York. Under her leadership, Launch NY has invested nearly $12 million in regional startups, according to its year-end 2023 report. For LaVigne, this role is more than just a job; it’s a passion and a mission to drive innovation and economic development in the region.

Personal Life and Passions

LaVigne, who grew up mainly in Williamsville, now resides in Clarence with her husband, Rob Fohl. Together, they have two children and five grandchildren. Outside of work, LaVigne enjoys boating and skiing, activities she loves for their family-friendly nature. As members of the Buffalo Yacht Club since 1991, she and her family have formed lasting connections through these sports.

Looking Ahead to 2024

LaVigne’s goal for 2024 is to see another successful exit from a company in the Launch NY portfolio, building on the momentum from the successful Patient Pattern exit. Her enthusiasm for seeing innovations that make a difference in people’s lives keeps her motivated to bring these ideas to market.

Final Thoughts and Reflections

Reflecting on her career, LaVigne would advise her younger self to “just take a step back and breathe,” emphasizing the importance of appreciating the moment and learning from it. She sees her journey as one where things fell into place as they were meant to, but recognizes the value of patience and reflection.

The Power of Local Investment

For those interested in the innovation happening in Western New York, LaVigne’s message is clear: Investing locally can be incredibly rewarding. Launch NY makes it easy to give back to a community you love, helping to build new businesses and support groundbreaking products and companies.

For more information on how you can be part of this exciting journey, navigate through our website (www.launchny.org) .

 

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